Preventive health screenings Arizonans of a certain age shouldn’t overlook

Lauren Maxham, MD

Submitted photo

As we get older, our health needs change. The best way to catch new issues is through preventive screenings — so we can deal with them before they get too far along.

Here are 14 screenings Arizonans should make time for:

Blood pressure

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common problem as people age. Your arteries become less flexible as you get older. Uncontrolled, it can lead to cardiovascular disease and stroke, among other health issues.

Cholesterol

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 12% of people older than 60 have high cholesterol, which can dramatically increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. If your cholesterol falls outside of normal ranges, ask your physician about medication, exercise, your diet and smoking. 

Colorectal cancer

The third most common cancer, colorectal cancer presents mainly in people older than 50. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk should get their first screening by age 45, and then continue up to age 75. 

Dementia 

Early detection of dementia gives you a chance at the most optimal treatment and time to plan for the future. You can receive a cognitive assessment from your doctor. The Alzheimer’s Association also provides simple screening tests that you can take yourself or that can be administered by a trusted family member or friend. If you or a loved one is showing concerning signs of dementia, you should see a primary care provider who can take a more in-depth assessment.  

Depression

Older adults are at increased risk of developing depression because of life changes, loneliness and dealing with multiple health issues. If you are struggling with depressive episodes, your primary care doctor may refer you to a therapist or psychologist for more help. If you are in a mental health crisis, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. It’s available 24/7.

Diabetes 

Diabetes affects around 33% of people aged 65 and over. If not controlled, it can lead to heart disease, kidney, nerve, foot and eye damage, and more. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people age 45 and over should get screened every three years.

Eyes 

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that people older than 65 go for a full eye exam every year or two. In addition to checking your regular visual acuity and depth perception, your ophthalmologist will check for glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

Fall risk 

Falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide, and people older than 60 experience the greatest number of fatal falls.

All seniors should get an annual fall risk assessment. Your health provider will go over your fall history, test your balance and cognition, perform a physical exam and review your medications.

Hearing

Hearing loss progresses with age. Experts have found that even mild hearing loss can cause seniors to isolate, which can lead to depression. Don’t let your loss of hearing impact your ability to meet up with friends and maintain an independent life.

Heart

Statistically, if you are older than 65, you are at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease than younger folks. Echocardiogram assesses heart function and an Electrocardiogram measures the heart’s electric signals. If abnormalities are found, your health care provider will advise you on lifestyle and diet changes, and medication. 

Lung cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, most people are 65 or older when diagnosed with lung cancer. While it is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, early detection can reduce mortality.

Breast cancer

The American Cancer Society recommends that women ages 40 to 54 should get yearly mammograms; after age of 55, you can switch to every two years. Men can get breast cancer and should be screened if they have any risk factors.

Prostate cancer 

In America, 13 out of 100 men will get prostate cancer and your risk increases as you age. The American Cancer Society recommends this screening schedule. 

Skin cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. Sun damage you do to your skin through burns and tans when you are younger often don’t show up until much later in life. That’s why most skin cancers aren’t diagnosed until after the age of 65. You should do a self-exam once a month for suspicious spots that are new or changing. 

Find a physician who specializes in senior care to start working on checking these screenings off your list! 

Editor’s note: Lauren Maxham, MD is a Phoenix-based medical provider at ArchWell Health, providing care to adults 60 and older. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.