3 Crucial Health Checks For Seniors
Hearing test
According to the Institute for Healthcare Policy & Innovation, 80% of older adults above 50 years have not had their hearing checked. Even worse, this group of adults claim that in over two years, they have never been asked by their primary care physician to get a hearing test. Indeed, the finding is worrying, especially when geriatric healthcare considers hearing tests a must. According to science, organs in the body may start to lose functioning as aging sets in.
This makes it vital to get your ears checked when you hit 50 and above. Indeed, marginal hearing loss is considered quite normal in those golden years. However, you can mitigate the risks of total loss by making these tests a part of your regular health screenings. If you are in Georgia or around the Atlanta Metropolitan area, consider booking an appointment with an Alpharetta audiologist. Better safe than sorry.
- Bone density scan
Biologically, bone density increases until an individual reaches age 31. After that, the density value remains the same until you reach your late 40s. In most people, this happens at the age of 48 when there is a marginal decrease in bone density. Finally, by age 60, density reduces sharply, and that is when some bone conditions are first diagnosed. For example, osteoporosis is usually detected for the first time by 61. If you are an older female, it may be diagnosed by the time you turn 60.
Even though women are more susceptible to osteoporosis in the twilight years, men should get tested too. A density scan will measure how many grams of calcium, Vitamin D and other relevant minerals are in your bones. If your values are lower than the average for your age, there may be cause for concern. However, early diagnosis may give a better chance to respond to treatment. These age-related bone conditions are progressive but can be slowed down.
- Periodontal exam
Older adults have the most cases of periodontal disease in the United States. Data reveals that 70% of all those with the condition are 65 years and above. So, why is this condition prevalent among the aging population? According to dental research, it is due to several factors, but the main three reasons are side-effects of certain medications, enamel weakening and poor oral care. Oral health is a critical issue in old age, and you will be better off booking a dental appointment soon.
