As you get older, your body changes. Everyone seems to know that, right? However, there are are some things you will need to be paying close attention to with each passing year. Due to medical advances, they say that 65 is the new 50, and 75 is the new 60. So much for retiring early huh?
The following list should be considered if you are past or approaching age 65. Keep your attention on these things to help you live your best and most healthy life.
1. Preventative Screenings – As one of the best and easiest ways to find health problems before they get bad, preventative health screenings can save lives and increase your quality of life. Your doctor will be able to tell you which screenings are right for you. Some of them might include eye exams, cancer screenings, colonoscopy, cholesterol tests, or dental exams.
2. Changes In Blood Pressure – Aging causes our blood pressure to rise, and if it is too high, it should not be left untreated. High blood pressure (hypertension) can cause a stroke or heart attack. You can track it using a fitness tracker or a blood pressure pump. You can also have them tested at your doctors office with each visit.
3. Medication Side Effects – This one can be ignored if you don’t take medication or if you’re certain it isn’t causing any side effects. However, you should understand and look out for any side effects you have to medication. Ask your doctor if they’re normal and if they will go away. Tell your doctor all of the medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, as they could be interacting with each other.
4. Mood Changes – Whether your life has changed and caused you stress or you aren’t sure why you feel different, tell your doctor. If you feel irritable, unfocused, sleepy, anxious, or withdrawn, let them know. Try to recall when, why, where or how you feel how you feel. Your doctor can help figure out what is causing it.
5. Learn Medicare – As you age to 65 or more, it is important to start figuring out how Medicare works. This will help determine the amount and quality of care you will get. Get online or call someone to find out. Consider your overall health, your medication list, and your traveling plans.
Getting older is not always the most fun part of life, but you can make it much more healthy and enjoyable by staying on top of your healthcare.