Written on 09/08/2024
From the age of 60, it is crucial to focus on prevention to maintain a good quality of life and detect potential health problems early.
Here are the four essential medical exams for people aged 60 and over.
1. Cardiovascular assessment
The World Health Organization (WHO) and The Lancet believe that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, with approximately 8.9 million deaths in 2019.
For people of 60 years and overit is essential to carry out a complete assessment including:
- Blood pressure measurement : to detect l’hypertensiona major risk factor.
- Lipid balance : it allows you to check cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) : This test detects heart rhythm disturbances and other heart abnormalities.
Advice : an annual check-up is recommended, but the frequency may vary depending on medical history.
2. Cancer screening
The risk of some cancers increases with age. Two screenings are particularly recommended:
- Mammography : for women, breast cancer screening every two years is recommended up to 74 years old.
- Colonoscopy : recommended every ten years from the age of 50, it is essential for detecting colorectal cancers.
Advice : talk to your doctor to adapt the screening schedule based on your family history.
3. Bone density test
With age, bones become more fragile, which increases the risk osteoporosis and fractures.
- Bone densitometry : this examination, carried out every 2 to 3 years oldallows to measure bone density and assess the risk of fractures.
Advice : particularly recommended for women after menopause, this examination can also be useful for men with risk factors.
4. Assessment of cognitive abilities
Aging may lead to memory or other cognitive impairment. Early detection can improve management.
- Cognitive screening test : it allows the detection of the first signs of dementia or diseases neurodegenerative like Alzheimer’s.
Advice : If you notice memory problems, seek prompt medical attention for screening.
Having these tests regularly can improve the quality of life of people aged 60 and over. Remember to see your GP regularly to discuss these screenings.
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