Regular health check-ups are important at any age but are essential as one gets older. Adults over the age of 50 are more likely to contract diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, COPD, cancer, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, and more as they age. 

Symptoms associated with these diseases can also be hard to determine until they have gotten really bad. This is why regular annual health check-ups must be conducted for seniors. This allows doctors the chance to catch a growing disease or health condition early which in turn makes the condition easier to treat and in many cases curable. 

Since many diseases are silent killers that do not show symptoms until all hell breaks loose, it is crucial to undergo routine exams so the doctors can identify any potential threats early on.

This article will discuss the importance of regular health check-ups for seniors and how these exams, screenings, and treatments pave the way for a better quality of life. 

Benefits of Regular Health Check-ups for Seniors

Identify Potential Health Threats

Doctors can identify conditions that make you prone to certain diseases by assessing family history and other symptoms. For instance, the doctor will check your weight, cholesterol levels, and may prescribe medications, and a diet plan if you have, or are more likely to develop chronic conditions like high blood pressure.

Hence, the foremost benefit of regular health check-ups is the fact that they allow you to manage any risk factors associated with medical conditions early without them growing into anything serious.

Helps Identify Health Issues

Regular health check-ups also aid in the identification of health issues, and that too at the right time. Diseases like diabetes do not show symptoms until they get worse, but a doctor can identify symptoms by examining weight, BP, and blood sugar to detect such diseases in their early stages making them easier to treat. 

Psychological Assistance 

Seniors are more likely to develop anxiety and depression along the way and not realize it. Mental health issues have a significant impact on every life, which is why regular checkups also include a thorough screening, including mental health checks to identify any possible symptoms. As a result, medical professionals can manage the symptoms early on and assist seniors in sustaining their mental health.

Improved Independence

Great health makes way for an independent lifestyle. Knowing that they are healthy and well gives seniors confidence in continuing to live an independent and active lifestyle. 

Increased Chance Of Recovery

Regular check-ups allow doctors to spot issues early on and keep a close eye on one’s health from the very first day. This also improves the likelihood of recovery and reduces the number of complications that could have arisen if the issue hadn’t been discovered early on.

How to Prepare for a Health Check-up?

Whether you are a caregiver taking their loved one for a routine exam or a senior preparing for a regular checkup, there are certain measures you must take to ensure better outcomes.

It is best to start by gathering the senior's history, a list of their current medications, and their insurance details. Write down any worries or inquiries you may have in case you forget them during the appointment. 

Remember to tell your doctor about all recent changes in your health or life in general that may be affecting you in any way, as well as your diet, exercise regimen, and sleeping habits.

Last but not least, try to avoid drinking alcohol and smoking! If you do drink or smoke, let your doctor know. If you’re interested in finding ways to quit these habits, they will likely be able to help you come up with a plan. 

If anything is confusing, feel free to ask as many questions as you want. Keep in mind that you have the right to ask questions.

Questions to Ask During a Health Check-up

You must be an active participant during your regular checkups because it is crucial to keep your doctor and yourself up-to-date with all of your symptoms and health conditions.

Therefore, you might want to think about noting down some of these inquiries for your upcoming visit.

• Ask about your blood pressure, as elevated blood pressure can be a sign of cardiovascular disease or even diabetes. 
• Ask about regular exercise. Along with preventing many issues like limited mobility, high cholesterol, high BP, and diabetes. Exercise can also help strengthen muscles and bones. Inquire whether you are exercising enough or not and what workouts and exercises are essential for your body.
• Given that genetics is a factor in many health problems, always ask your doctor to look into your family history. Knowing your family history can make doctors more aware of potential genetic diseases that could potentially threaten your health and what symptoms they should be on the lookout for. 
• Lastly, not all symptoms are alarming, but at the same time, not all symptoms are normal either. This is why it is also important to ask your doctor whether your experiences fall within the normal range or they are a sign of something more severe.

How To Find a Qualified Doctor: Tips!

While you are on the lookout for a qualified physician or specialist for seniors, here are some of the factors you must keep in mind.

Geriatricians are primary care doctors who specialize in treating seniors. Since people in their 60s or above require a more gentle and thorough doctor, geriatricians are the ones who have the appropriate training and experience in taking care of seniors.

A good doctor is professional and knowledgeable. Make sure the doctor you go for has a strong work ethic and is qualified with board certification. 

Senior Care With Northwood Intouch!

Maintaining your health is crucial if you want to lead a self-sufficient lifestyle. Therefore, whether you are a caregiver or a senior yourself, you should never miss out on routine checkups no matter if you are feeling great or not.

At Northwood Intouch, we strive to ensure that all seniors in Canada live out their golden years in great health and enjoy an independent and active lifestyle, preferably in the comfort of their own homes.

This is why we offer a range of products that help seniors stay at home in safety and comfort. Products such as automatic pill dispensers, automatic fall prevention, and other home safety devices can all play an instrumental role in ensuring senior safety.

For more information about our products and services call us at +1 (902) 492-3346 or email us at intouch@nwood.ns.ca