Posted by As a senior, you’ve earned the right to enjoy the golden years of your life, but with that comes a responsibility to take care of your health. Just like the ocean, your bodies are complex and ever-changing, requiring regular maintenance to ensure smooth sailing. One of the fantastic ways to maintain good health is by looking for a full body check up package. They give you peace of mind and help detect any potential health issues early on, allowing you to take proactive steps towards managing your health.
So, get to know which tests and screenings you require to prioritize.
Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Tests: High cholesterol levels and high blood pressure are common among older adults and can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Therefore, regular blood pressure and cholesterol tests should be part of seniors’ full body check-ups. High blood pressure often shows no symptoms, so it is essential to check it regularly. High cholesterol levels can also be symptomless, so a blood test is the only way to detect it.
Diabetes Screening: Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin. Seniors are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to age-related changes in the body. Therefore, regular diabetes screening tests should be part of the check-up. The tests include fasting blood sugar test and HbA1c test.
The full body checkup package price starts from 750 and more in India and may vary depending on the location, healthcare provider, and the specific tests included. So, make sure that the diabetes screening is included in your package.
Cancer Screening: As you age, the risk of developing cancer increases. Regular screenings can help detect cancer early on, making it easier to treat. The types of screening tests recommended for seniors include colonoscopy, mammography, Pap smear, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Its frequency may vary depending on the individual’s health status and family history.
Bone Density Test: Osteoporosis is a condition that is common among older adults, especially women. It is a condition in which bones become brittle and weak, making them more susceptible to fractures. A bone density test can allow you to diagnose osteoporosis and determine the risk of bone fractures. The test is recommended for women over the age of 65 and men over the age of 70.
Vision and Hearing Tests: Vision and hearing problems are common among seniors. Therefore, regular vision and hearing tests should be part of their package. Vision tests include a visual acuity test, which checks how well a person can see at different distances, and a glaucoma test, which checks for signs of glaucoma. This condition damages the optic nerve. Hearing tests include a pure-tone audiometry test, which checks how well a person can hear different sounds at different frequencies.
Thyroid Function Test: The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped, small gland located at the neck’s front, producing hormones and regulating metabolism. An underactive or overactive thyroid can cause various health problems, including weight gain, fatigue, and depression. A thyroid function test can help diagnose thyroid problems and determine the appropriate treatment. The test is recommended for seniors, especially women over the age of 60.
Immunization: As you age, your immune system weakens, making you more vulnerable to infections. Therefore, seniors should get vaccinated regularly to prevent diseases. The recommended vaccinations for seniors include the flu, pneumococcal, shingles, and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap).
Conclusion
Getting a full body check up package is crucial for seniors to maintain good health and detect any health issues early on. The tests and screenings recommended for seniors include blood pressure and cholesterol tests, diabetes screening, cancer screening, bone density tests, vision and hearing, thyroid function, and immunizations. However, their frequency may vary depending on the individual’s health status and family history. Therefore, discussing the appropriate tests and screenings with a healthcare provider is essential. By prioritizing them, seniors can take proactive steps to manage their health and enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle as they age.