As our bodies age, it’s important that we continue to look after ourselves. For Australians aged 50 and over, there are a number of essential health checks that can help you manage your health as you get older.
Cancer Screenings
Cancer becomes more common as you get older. But with the right screenings, you can catch any potential signs early and have the best chance of fighting back.
Breast cancer screening
A woman’s chance of breast cancer increases with age, and around 1 in 7 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. In Australia, women over 40 can get a free mammogram every two years. Utilising a low-dose x-ray, this test can detect breast cancers at an early stage—potentially even before you can feel them.
Find out more about women’s health services at Brecken Bunbury.
Prostate cancer screening
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, and the second most common cause of cancer-related death in men. These days, prostate cancer health checks for 50+ men are in the form of a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test that measures PSA levels to determine your cancer risk.
Learn more about men’s health services and prostate cancer checks at Brecken Bunbury.
Bowel cancer screening
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in Australia. When you turn 50, you will get a bowel cancer screening kit in the mail every two years. This is part of the National Bowel Cancer Screening program. This free test contains everything you need for self testing, with your results sent to a pathology lab and your GP.
Skin cancer checks
With Australia’s rate of skin cancer, regular skin checks are crucial—particularly as you reach 50 and above. Your GP can undertake a skin check for you, to identify any signs that could warrant a closer look. Or you can book in with a dermatologist, who will undertake a thorough check using a dermatoscope.
With this being said, the most effective way to catch skin cancer early is to do regular self-checks. This ensures you get to know your skin, so you can identify any changes or areas of concern
Heart health checkups
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people in Australia. As a 50-year-old, medical checks for your heart health are a key tool in helping you live a long and healthy life.
Heart disease risk assessment
Your GP can begin by performing a heart disease risk assessment. This is a series of questions that helps them understand your current situation, medical history, lifestyle, and advise on any potential risks for your heart health.
Blood pressure screening
High blood pressure is a symptom of heart disease, so regular blood pressure health checks for 50+ are a good way to monitor your risks of heart disease or stroke. Your GP can do one quickly and easily, or you can even find some pharmacies that have free blood pressure checks.
Cholesterol and lipid profile
Cholesterol and lipids are fat-like substances in your body that can accumulate in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease or stroke. Getting a cholesterol and lipid blood test can give insight into your health risks, and alert you to lifestyle changes you may need to make.
Diabetes screening
Getting regular blood glucose tests is important. This is true even if you have no symptoms. It helps avoid or manage Type 2 diabetes as you get older. Speak with your doctor about organising a test.
Osteoporosis screening
If your doctor thinks you might be at risk of osteoporosis, they will refer you for a DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan to test your bone density. This test measures the amount of calcium in your bones, providing a snapshot of your bone health and chance of osteoporosis.
Learn more about our musculoskeletal services.
Eye and vision health
Regular eye tests can help to detect age-related issues like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Your GP can advise on which tests are necessary for your situation, including diabetic retinopathy, which tests the health of your retina and screens for diabetes-related damage.
Hearing tests
Around one third of older people experience hearing loss. Regular tests can ensure that you stay on top of your hearing, and if any loss is identified, your GP can put a plan in place to help you manage it.
Health checks for 50+ year-olds help you stay in control of your health as you age
As you get older, regular health checks and screenings can help you set a baseline for your health, detecting any issues early and empowering you to live a longer, healthier life. If you’re looking for specialist aged care (including health assessments for those aged 75+) or geriatric care, contact us today.
Get in touch with our team today to book a health check appointment with your GP.
