In this guide, we’ll dive into the essential health checks tailored for those aged 50 and beyond, ensuring we stay proactive and well-informed.
Every year
- a dental check-up
- an osteoporosis risk assessment
Every 2 years
- a heart disease risk assessment
- a blood pressure check
- a mammogram to screen for breast cancer (females)
- a screen for bowel cancer
Every 3 years
- a diabetes risk assessment
- an eye test
Every 5 years
- cholesterol and lipids tests
- a cervical screening test (females)
At regular intervals
- a skin cancer check
- a depression risk assessment
What can I do to stay healthy?
To help stay healthy you should:
Maintain a balanced lifestyle
- Aim for a balanced diet and a healthy weight
- Consume 2 servings of fruit and 5 servings of vegetables daily, including grains, lean meats, poultry, fish, and dairy
- Limit sugar, saturated fat, and salt intake
- Restrict alcohol consumption to no more than 10 standard drinks per week, with no more than 4 drinks on a single day
Stay physically active
- Strive for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity most days of the week, incorporating muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week
- Avoid prolonged periods of sitting
Immunisation
- Discuss necessary vaccinations or booster shots with your doctor
Preventative measures for health problems
Cardiovascular Disease
- Undergo a cardiovascular risk assessment every 2 years if aged 45 or above
- Follow a healthy lifestyle to mitigate high blood pressure and cholesterol
High Blood Pressure
- Regular blood pressure checks based on your cardiovascular risk
- Adjust lifestyle and consider medication if needed
Cholesterol and Lipids
- Get cholesterol and lipids checked every 5 years, or more frequently if at high risk
- Maintain healthy cholesterol levels through diet and exercise
Type 2 Diabetes
- Screen for risk factors every 3 years
- Consider blood glucose tests based on risk level
Stroke
- Discuss stroke-related symptoms and risk factors with your doctor
- If at high risk, undergo assessments and follow recommended interventions
Kidney Disease
- High-risk individuals should have kidney function checks every 1-2 years
Breast Cancer
- Women should have a mammogram every 2 years from age 50
Skin Cancer
- High-risk individuals should have a skin check every 6-12 months
- Monitor and report changes in skin spots
Cervical Cancer
- Women in their 50s should continue cervical screening, following the new cervical screening test guidelines
Prostate Cancer
- Men in their 50s can discuss pros and cons of prostate cancer screening with their doctor
Colorectal (Bowel or Colon) Cancer
- Assess risk, and if indicated, consider a colonoscopy
- For those aged 50-74, participate in bowel cancer screening every 2 years
Osteoporosis and Fracture
- Assess osteoporosis risk annually
- Consume recommended calcium and vitamin D, follow a healthy lifestyle, and consider medication if necessary
Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
- Practise good oral hygiene, limit acidic and sugary foods, and visit a dentist at least once a year
