After 65: Tests You Need to Have

By Vicki Salemi
After 65: Tests You Need to Have

Sixty-five is the new forty, haven't you heard? Today's seniors are more active than ever and the good news is they're living longer than ever. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, life expectancy continues to climb. As such, so does the importance of having various health tests conducted on a regular basis. Whether it's the colonoscopy, a skin cancer screening or cholesterol screening, these important health tests help prevent the onset of diseases so seniors can live a longer healthier life.

Hearing Exam

According to the American Academy of Audiology, hearing loss is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions in the country affecting more than nine million Americans over the age of 65. Typically administered in primary care physician offices, an audiogram consists of wearing headphones and indicating when various sounds are heard. As for the outcome, Bernard Katz, MD and geriatrician explains, "If there is significant hearing loss, the patient is usually sent for to an ENT Specialist (otolaryngologist) or an audiologist for a hearing aid evaluation."

Eye Exam

When it comes to preventing the onset of eye related ailments, Robert Weinreb, MD and director of the Hamilton Glaucoma Center and president of the American Glaucoma Society, advocates a complete eye evaluation for patients over 65. For instance, detecting glaucoma includes an assessment of glaucoma risk, measurement of intraocular pressure, and examination of the optic nerve. "A complete eye evaluation also should measure best corrected visual acuity and detect other common causes of vision loss including cataract and age-related macular degeneration."

Skin Cancer Screening

For annual skin evaluations which typically last 10 to 15 minutes, doctors examine patients for growths, moles, and discoloration of the skin. Claire Booth, DO, and geriatric specialist recommends a yearly check-up for evaluation of skin in particular the neck, torso, and even between toes and the bottom of the feet. "Patients who have suspicious lesions, moles or skin discolorations are referred to a dermatologist for evaluation and biopsy and further treatment if warranted."

Colonoscopy

"This test sounds much worse than it is," says Patricia Raymond, MD, FACP, FACG, board certified physician in Gastroenterology and General Internal Medicine and fellow of the American Colleges of Physicians and Gastroenterology. After ingesting a clear liquid diet and laxative packages the night prior to the test, the office procedure lasts about 20 minutes whereby a scope is inserted around the large intestine. "With a colonoscopy we may detect and remove colon polyps, mushroom-like growths that transform into cancer over several years." She suggests having a colonoscopy every ten years; for patients with a family history or previous polyps detection it's recommended every five years. "When caught early survival is over 90% and after surgical removal no chemotherapy or radiation is needed. You're done."

Blood Pressure

While the actual test takes less than a minute to administer, blood pressure tests are an indicator of coronary heart disease. "Most libraries and communities offer this as a free service to seniors," explains Pat Baird, MA, RD, FADA and registered dietician. "The earlier the problem is detected the more likely it is to be treated with lifestyle modifications such as a better diet and physical activity." As for an ideal blood pressure reading? According to the National Lung and Blood Institute it should be less than 120/80.

Bone Density

According to Sharon Brangman, MD and member of the American Geriatrics Society, the onset of osteoporosis may be diagnosed when a bone densitometer scans a patient to measure his or her bone density. "In particular the spine, hip and wrist are examined. This test should be done every five years for patients with normal bones or every three years for patients with thinning bones." As for the prescription for thin bones? Medication, calcium, vitamin D, and physical therapy.

Blood Sugar Test

In order to screen seniors to detect diabetes, this annual test consists of a simple blood test first thing in the morning. While the patient fasts for at least eight to twelve hours, the test determines if they have problems digesting sugar and carbohydrates. Dr. Brangman explains, "The result should be 100 or less. If it's higher than that further testing should be done. Diabetes can sneak up on people."

Cholesterol Screening

This blood test also entails fasting for at least eight to twelve hours prior to having blood drawn. The cholesterol test is recommended for healthy seniors every five years and annually for seniors with a history of high cholesterol, it examines triglycerides, HDL and LDL counts. The total blood cholesterol should be lower than 200. Higher numbers are associated with a high risk for a stroke, heart attack, kidney disease. Experts recommend lowering it through a low saturated fat diet, increased exercise, and medication.