What Health Screenings Do Women Aged 60 – 69 Need?

By:  Todd Palmer at Always Best Care

As the body ages, seniors experience a wide range of changes. For instance, they may find that they have higher blood pressure, are at a greater risk for certain types of cancer, or have developed diabetes. Yasmine, who lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, talked to her doctor about the healthcare needs for women in her age group (60 to 69). Here, Yasmine offers a list of health screenings that are recommended by the AARP.1

1. Blood Pressure Screening: Seniors should have their blood pressure checked at least once every two years, as abnormal levels can indicate heart disease and other conditions. Blood pressure tests are noninvasive and quick, and are as such often conducted at each doctor's appointment before the consultation with a physician. 
2. Breast Cancer Screening: Mammograms scan the breast for abnormal tissue, allowing doctors to detect any tumors or other concerns. These should be done once every two years. 
3. Cervical Cancer Screening: A Pap smear, which should be done every three years, can identify any cellular changes that may be caused by cervical cancer. Human papillomavirus, or HPV, can lead to cervical cancer, so an HPV screening is also recommended. 
4. Cholesterol Screening: Through a blood test, medical professionals can pinpoint any elevated or high cholesterol levels. This test will differentiate between LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol. One test every five years is recommended.  
5. Colorectal Cancer Screening: This test can be performed in one of three ways, depending upon a senior's medical needs and the recommendations of their doctors. A colonoscopy may be conducted, which sends a camera into the body to identify any abnormalities. A sigmoidoscopy is the same procedure, but it is focused on the rectum and pelvic colon area. Finally, stool samples may be screened for blood. 

Yasmine has spent a great deal of time determining which health screenings she needs to have done in order to best protect her health as she ages. For women who are between the ages of 60 and 69, these are five of the most highly recommended tests. By having these conducted, seniors can work with their doctors to ensure that they are in the best health possible.

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1 http://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-092010/screenings_by_age_and_gender.3.html

Health Screenings: What Do Women Need Between 50 and 59?

By:  Todd Palmer at Always Best Care

Throughout all phases of life, from birth forward, health screenings are extremely important. These appointments allow doctors to pinpoint any medical concerns and address issues that may arise, allowing their patients to access the high quality healthcare they need to live the best life possible. But as individuals get older, the actual screenings that they should have performed may change. Janet, who lives in Durham, North Carolina, recently did a bit of research to determine the kinds of healthcare support she should expect in terms of screenings between the ages of 50 and 59. Here, Janet shares her findings:1

• Diabetes Screening: A fasting plasma glucose test is conducted in order to detect any abnormal blood sugar levels and the presence of diabetes. This screening should take place at least once every three years, particularly if individuals have elevated or high blood pressure. 
• Hepatitis C Screening: Through a simple blood test, this screening can determine whether or not an individual has the hepatitis C virus, which can cause liver cancer and other serious conditions regarding this organ. Seniors born between 1945 and 1965 are urged to be tested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 
• Depression Screening: Depression symptoms lasting for two weeks or more may require medical attention, so this is an important aspect of proper healthcare. 
• Alcohol Abuse Screening: Alcohol abuse can cause a wide range of health problems, and as such it is important that misuse is detected and addressed as soon as possible. 
• Obesity Screening: As individuals age it can become difficult to keep weight off and lose excess pounds. This screening allows seniors to determine if they are at a healthy weight and, if they are not, to partner with their doctors to create a weight loss plan. 
• Tobacco Use Screening: This screening sheds light on the importance of refraining from tobacco use and offers interventions when necessary. 
• Sexually Transmitted Disease Screenings: It is important for sexually active individuals to be screened for HIV, Chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea. Janet knows that it can be difficult to understand just what health screenings are necessary at certain ages, and this list has helped her to ensure that she has the right tests performed.

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1 http://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-09-2010/screenings_by_age_and_gender.2.html