Our body changes as we get older. It becomes more prone to certain conditions and issues that, left untreated, can make a real negative difference in our quality of life. However, it isn’t something that you have to simply sit back and accept as the reality of aging. There’s a lot that can be done, and here, we’re going to look at some of the appointments you should be making more as you get older to do just that.
Primary Care Physician Appointments
Your primary care physician (PCP) plays a crucial role in overseeing your general health. Regular visits to your PCP allow for routine screenings, such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar tests, which are vital for detecting conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Your PCP can also monitor for signs of age-related diseases such as osteoporosis and arthritis. Through annual check-ups, your doctor can offer preventive care, recommend lifestyle changes, and manage any chronic conditions you may have, helping to improve your quality of life as you age.
Ophthalmologist Appointments
Vision changes are common as you get older, making regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist essential. Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration become more prevalent with age. An ophthalmologist can detect these issues early, often before you notice symptoms, and provide appropriate treatment like LASIK to prevent or slow down vision loss. Regular eye exams can also ensure that your prescription for glasses or contact lenses is up to date, helping you maintain clear vision and independence.
Audiologist Appointments
Hearing loss is another common issue associated with aging, and regular appointments with an audiologist are crucial for early detection and management. What happens at an audiology appointment? An audiologist can perform hearing tests to identify any decline in your hearing ability. If hearing loss is detected, they can recommend solutions such as hearing aids or other assistive listening devices. Early intervention can significantly enhance your ability to communicate and participate in social activities, reducing the risk of isolation and depression.
Cardiologist Appointments
As cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of health issues in older adults, seeing a cardiologist becomes increasingly important as you age. Regular visits to a cardiologist can help monitor your heart health, particularly if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease. A cardiologist can perform specialized tests, such as EKGs or stress tests, to assess your heart function and recommend treatments or lifestyle changes to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems.
Dermatologist Appointments
Your skin also changes with age, making regular visits to a dermatologist essential. Older adults are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer, as well as other skin conditions like age spots, dryness, and wrinkles. A dermatologist can perform skin checks to detect early signs of skin cancer, provide treatments for cosmetic concerns, and recommend skincare routines that help protect and maintain healthy skin. Annual visits to a dermatologist can be particularly important for those with a history of sun exposure or a personal or family history of skin cancer.
The worst approach to any change in your health is to do nothing. With the tips above, you can make sure that you’re proactive, and doing more to truly take care of yourself.