Aging is inevitable for every man and woman as a normal consequence of biological life. Some people may age in good health and strength, carrying on normally albeit at a reduced pace. 

However, others age with health conditions that may escalate with the passage of time, leaving them frail and in need of constant medical care and frequent tests to keep track of their health status.

Health tests at this age are vital for better management of the senior’s conditions and knowing which to take is important. It is equally important to know what tests your Medicare plan provides or supports to avoid having to pay for these from your pocket. The best Medicare advantage plans in 2021 may cover tests at the audiologist, orthodontist, dentist, and optometrist.

Blood pressure checks

Blood pressure checks are the first tests any senior male or female must take regularly. Blood pressure does not exhibit symptoms or any discomfort most times and can sneak up on you with devastating consequences by the time it is noticed. High blood pressure is also an indicator of other underlying conditions that can cause health complications.

Seniors must also keep a keen eye on weight gain, as it is a contributing factor to high blood pressure. Regular exercises are good to enhance the functions of the heart and to keep the weight down. Aetna Medicare advantage plans 2021 offers seniors full access to select gyms across the country to help them keep fit.

Prostate and breast screening

Seniors should have regular prostate screening to preempt any signs of prostate cancer. From the age of 55 onwards, have a talk with your doctor on the implications of a prostate check, especially if you notice simple issues such as an irregular urine flow. A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is recommended for this purpose.

A regular breast exam at your doctor’s office is a good idea and you may want to consider a mammogram as well every one or two years. This is necessary to protect against breast cancer and your doctor will advise you on the frequency of tests and you may want to include a pelvic exam and pap smear.

Colorectal and cholesterol screening

Colorectal cancer is a major killer and can rear its unsavory head in old age. To protect against this complication, go for lab and physical tests as recommended by your doctor. Colorectal cancer affects both men and women and as such, anyone from the age of 50 should go for screening for early detection.

Cholesterol screening is equally important for seniors to preempt incidents of vascular issues, strokes, and heart attacks. Alongside this, have your blood sugar tested to avoid diabetes.

Sight and hearing tests

Eye diseases tend to escalate in old age and it is good to have regular eye tests and have this corrected in time to preserve your eyesight. Glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration are treatable if detected early.

Aetna’s latest Medicare advantage plans for 2021 covers visits to an audiologist for seniors that can help them get hearing tests. Most seniors over 65 may suffer some form of hearing loss that is treatable if diagnosed early. If you have trouble hearing, consider a visit to your doctor for advice. 

Bone density checks

Osteoporosis is a major cause of fractures, disabilities, and sometimes fatalities in old people and is a consequence of diminished bone density. Women especially are vulnerable to osteoporosis and must ask their doctors for advice and probable bone density test. Seniors must take care of their overall health by having regular exams to rule out any of these old age complications.