Must-Ask Health Questions for Seniors When Turning 65

Reaching the age of 65 is a significant milestone, marking a transition into a phase of life where healthcare takes on even greater importance. This is the time to be proactive about your health, ensuring that you have a comprehensive understanding of your medical needs and how to manage them effectively. Whether you're already in good health or dealing with chronic conditions, asking the right questions during your doctor's visit can make all the difference in maintaining your well-being. Here are the five most important things to ask your doctor when you turn 65.

1. What Screenings and Tests Do I Need?

As you age, the types of medical screenings and tests you need may change. Regular screenings are crucial in the early detection of conditions that become more common with age, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Here’s what you should discuss with your doctor:

Cancer Screenings

Colorectal Cancer: The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age, and screening is recommended until at least age 75. Ask your doctor whether you should continue with colonoscopies or if there are other less invasive options, such as stool tests.

Breast Cancer: Women should inquire about the frequency of mammograms, especially if they have a family history of breast cancer. While guidelines may vary, it's essential to have a personalized plan based on your risk factors.

Prostate Cancer: Men should discuss the benefits and risks of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. This test can help detect prostate cancer early, but it's not without its controversies. Your doctor can help you weigh the pros and cons based on your health status and family history.

Cardiovascular Tests

Blood Pressure Monitoring: High blood pressure is a silent condition that can lead to serious complications like heart attack and stroke. Ask your doctor about the best way to monitor your blood pressure, whether through regular visits or at-home monitoring.

Cholesterol Levels: Cholesterol tests are crucial for assessing your risk of heart disease. Discuss how often you should have your cholesterol checked and what lifestyle changes or medications might be necessary to keep it under control.

Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG): If you have symptoms like chest pain or palpitations, or if you’re at high risk for heart disease, an EKG might be necessary to monitor your heart's electrical activity. Your doctor can advise whether you need this test and how often.

Bone Health

Bone Density Test: Osteoporosis becomes a greater risk as you age, especially for women. A bone density test can help detect this condition early, allowing for preventive measures to reduce the risk of fractures. Ask your doctor if it’s time to schedule this test.

Diabetes Screening

Hemoglobin A1c Test: As the risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age, this test measures your average blood glucose levels over the past three months. It's important to know whether you’re at risk of developing diabetes, so ask your doctor if regular screening is necessary.

Vision and Hearing Tests

Eye Exams: Vision changes can occur gradually, so regular eye exams are essential for detecting conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration. Ask your doctor how often you should have your eyes checked.

Hearing Tests: Hearing loss is common as you age, but it often goes undiagnosed. A hearing test can help detect any issues early, so ask your doctor whether you should have your hearing evaluated.

Mental Health and Cognitive Function

Cognitive Screening: Dementia and cognitive decline are concerns as you age. Ask your doctor about screening tests that can assess your cognitive function. Early detection can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Depression Screening: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Depression is common in older adults, so ask your doctor about screening for depression, especially if you’ve been feeling down or experiencing changes in your sleep or appetite.

2. What Medications Should I Review or Adjust?

As you age, your body’s response to medications can change, and you may be more susceptible to side effects or interactions between different drugs. It’s essential to review your current medications with your doctor and ask the following questions:

Are All My Medications Necessary?

Polypharmacy, or the use of multiple medications, is common in older adults but can increase the risk of adverse effects. Ask your doctor to review all your medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to determine whether any can be discontinued or substituted with safer alternatives.

Are There Any Potential Drug Interactions?

As you add new medications to your regimen, the risk of interactions increases. Make sure to discuss any potential interactions between your medications, including those prescribed by different specialists.

Should My Dosage Be Adjusted?

Your body’s ability to metabolize medications can change with age, potentially requiring adjustments in dosage. Ask your doctor whether your current dosages are still appropriate, especially for medications like blood thinners, heart medications, or diabetes drugs.

Are There Safer Alternatives?

Some medications have higher risks for older adults, such as sedatives, which can increase the risk of falls. Ask your doctor whether there are safer alternatives to any medications you’re currently taking.

How Should I Manage Side Effects?

Side effects can be more pronounced in older adults. If you’ve been experiencing any new or worsening symptoms, discuss them with your doctor to see if they might be related to your medications. Your doctor can provide strategies for managing these side effects or adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

3. How Can I Maintain or Improve My Mobility and Physical Function?

Maintaining mobility and physical function is crucial for preserving your independence and quality of life as you age. Ask your doctor about the best ways to stay active and prevent falls:

What Exercises Are Safe and Effective for Me?

Physical activity is key to maintaining strength, balance, and flexibility, but it’s important to choose exercises that are safe for your specific health conditions. Ask your doctor for recommendations on exercises that will benefit your heart, bones, and muscles without putting you at risk of injury.

Should I See a Physical Therapist?

If you’re experiencing pain, weakness, or difficulty with movement, a physical therapist can help you develop a personalized exercise plan. Ask your doctor if a referral to a physical therapist would be beneficial.

How Can I Prevent Falls?

Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults, so preventing them is critical. Ask your doctor about strategies to reduce your fall risk, such as balance exercises, home safety modifications, or vision and hearing checks.

What Assistive Devices Might I Need?

If you’re experiencing mobility issues, assistive devices like canes, walkers, or grab bars can help you move around more safely. Ask your doctor if any of these devices might be appropriate for you.

How Can I Manage Pain and Inflammation?

Chronic pain, particularly from conditions like arthritis, can limit your mobility and physical activity. Ask your doctor about safe ways to manage pain, including medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes.

4. What Vaccinations Do I Need?

Vaccinations are a critical component of preventive healthcare, especially as your immune system naturally weakens with age. Make sure to ask your doctor about the vaccinations you need to protect against serious illnesses:

Influenza (Flu) Vaccine

The flu can be particularly dangerous for older adults, leading to complications like pneumonia. Ask your doctor whether you should receive the high-dose flu vaccine, which is designed specifically for people aged 65 and older.

Pneumococcal Vaccine

Pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections can be caused by pneumococcal bacteria, which can be deadly for older adults. There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines, and your doctor can advise which one is appropriate for you based on your health history.

Shingles Vaccine

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. The risk of developing shingles increases with age, so ask your doctor if you should get the shingles vaccine, which is recommended for people over 50.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine

If it’s been more than 10 years since your last tetanus shot, you may need a booster. Ask your doctor if you should receive the Tdap vaccine, which also protects against diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough).

COVID-19 Vaccine and Boosters

With the ongoing threat of COVID-19, staying up-to-date on your vaccinations and boosters is crucial. Ask your doctor about the latest recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines and whether you need a booster shot.

5. How Can I Manage My Mental and Emotional Health?

Mental and emotional health are just as important as physical health, particularly as you navigate the challenges that can come with aging, such as retirement, loss of loved ones, or changes in physical abilities. Here are some key questions to ask your doctor:

How Can I Manage Stress and Anxiety?

Stress and anxiety can take a toll on your overall health. Ask your doctor for recommendations on managing stress, whether through mindfulness practices, exercise, or counseling.

What Resources Are Available for Coping With Grief and Loss?

Loss is a part of life, but it can be particularly challenging as you age. Ask your doctor about resources for coping with grief, such as support groups or counseling services.

Should I Be Screened for Depression?

Depression can be more common in older adults, but it’s often underdiagnosed. Ask your doctor about screening for depression, especially if you’ve been feeling persistently sad, anxious, or hopeless.

How Can I Stay Socially Connected?

Social connections are vital for mental health, but they can become more difficult to maintain as you age. Ask your doctor for advice on staying socially active, whether through community programs, volunteer work, or social clubs.

What Can I Do to Keep My Mind Sharp?

Cognitive decline is a concern for many older adults, but there are ways to keep your mind sharp. Ask your doctor for recommendations on mental exercises, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, that can help maintain cognitive function.

Conclusion

Turning 65 is a pivotal moment in your life, a time to take charge of your health and well-being with the guidance of your doctor. By asking these critical questions, you can ensure that you’re on the right path to a healthy, fulfilling life as you age. Remember that your doctor is your partner in health, and open communication is key to receiving the best possible care.