Routine wellness screenings are intended to catch health problems in their earliest stages before they develop into overt disease. Here are five of the most important health screenings for seniors.
1. Blood Pressure
All adults should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year. Older adults are at greater risk of developing high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, vision loss, and dementia. High blood pressure can be treated with diet, exercise, and medications once it’s detected.
A home caregiver can help your loved one make healthy lifestyle choices that boost his or her long-term wellbeing. In Portland, homecare agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Align Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
2. Cholesterol
Dyslipidemia refers to the presence of an abnormal profile of blood lipids. Dyslipidemia can include elevated triglycerides, high total cholesterol, and an abnormal ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol. The presence of dyslipidemia indicates an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s easily identified through a simple blood test and is treated through diet, exercise, and medications. Every adult should have a blood test for dyslipidemia every four years.
3. Bone Density
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by progressive weakening of the bones. It most commonly affects older women, but many older men develop it as well. It can lead to bone fractures and reduced quality of life. However, it can be treated if it’s accurately identified. Women over the age of 65 should have regular bone density tests. It’s unclear if older men benefit from being screened for osteoporosis.
One of the many essential forms of assistance a home caregiver can provide is transportation to medical appointments, including regular checkups and screenings. For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Portland, Maine, Align Home Care is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.
4. Colonoscopy
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of death in older individuals. Colorectal cancer can be caught early, in a treatable stage, through regular colonoscopy screenings. Every adult between the ages of 50 and 75 should have a colonoscopy every 10 years. Adults older than 75 don’t seem to benefit from continued screening for colorectal cancer.
5. Vision
Glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts are common threats to vision in seniors. All three conditions can cause blindness if not treated, but they can all be treated if caught early. Seniors should have annual eye exams that include tests for glaucoma.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional in-home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place. Reach out to us at Align Home Care if you need compassionate professional home care for your loved one. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (207) 835-3490 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.