It is essential for older adults to understand the importance of going for a regular checkup to maintain your health in retirement. Regular checkups can help you identify and prevent senior health problems from an early stage so proper diagnosis and treatment can be put into place by a medical professional. A huge population of older adults experiences severe medical conditions due to their negligence towards changes in their bodies. Find out how often you need a medical checkup in your retirement.
How Often You Need Medical Checkup in Retirement
The frequency of medical checkups depends on a number of factors such as your current health status, age, and risk factors. Opinions vary but routine checkups with a medical professional are typically recommended like the following:
- Once every 3 years for individuals below 50 years old and are relatively healthy
- Once a year once you reach 50 years old
For older adults living with chronic diseases such as COPD or diabetes, it is advisable for you to see your doctor on a more frequent basis regardless of your age. The doctor may suggest a lower or higher frequency of medical checkups based on your screening test results, risk factors, and current health status.
Benefits of Regular Checkups
Regular checkups with your doctor can benefit your health in various ways. Some of the main benefits are as follows:
- Early treatment of health conditions can increase the odds of positive results
- Identifying potentially life-threatening medical concerns early before they become severe
- Staying updated on screening tests and vaccinations
- Regular monitoring of existing medical conditions can reduce the risk of critical complications of worsening symptoms
- Developing and maintaining a transparent relationship with the doctor
- Limiting additional healthcare costs associated with treating serious or complex conditions that are not detected early
- Finding out new ways to lead a longer, healthy life while enhancing your health
What Should a Medical Checkup Include?
During your medical checkup, the medical practitioner needs to review your past health history, evaluate your current health status, and schedule suitable screening tests. For both women and men, a medical checkup should include a review and update of the following:
- Family history
- Medical history
- Vaccinations and screening tests
- Allergies and list of medication
Women and men are typically screened for the following:
- Obesity based on body mass index
- High blood pressure
- Drug and alcohol misuse
- Tobacco use
- HIV screening for those aged between 15 to 65 years or anyone at risk
- Depression
- Hepatitis C for those born between 1945 to 1965
- Colorectal cancer for those aged 50 years and above
- Type 2 diabetes for those with a family history or risk factors
- Lung cancer with an annual low-dose CT scan for those aged between 55 to 80 years who are smokers or have smoked within the last 15 years
Depending on the results of your screening tests, you may need additional tests that can differ for men and women. Your doctor will provide professional advice and you can decide whether you wish to go through with the recommended tests.
