Find Small Problems Before They Become Big.
As the Dutch proverb goes, “prevention is better than cure.” Preventative health screenings are a critical component to staying healthy. “The ultimate goal for older adults is to maintain function and independence,” says Dr. Laura Morton, associate professor of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Louisville. Preventative screenings help you identify problems before they start, or at early stages, which can lead to swift treatment. As the new year begins, commit to getting preventative screenings to optimize your health in 2023.
Work with your primary care physician to coordinate your overall prevention strategy. “Your primary care physician should be the captain of the ship and help you navigate the screenings you need. It is not one size fits all. Our bodies change as we age, and what we need will change,” says Dr. Morton. Annual wellness visits with your primary care physician also ensure that several screenings are completed each year.
Dr. Morton also recommends referencing the website choosingwisely.org. The site, supported by the ABIM Foundation, helps patients determine what medical treatments, including preventative screenings, are necessary. “This site is very helpful in defining what questions you should be asking your doctor. It is good for both patients and family members or caregivers,” says Dr. Morton.
Here are some preventative screenings to consider with your doctor.
Bone Density Scan
Adults 65 or older should consider a bone density scan which uses X-rays to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in the bones. Younger patients may also benefit from a bone scan. “Consider a bone scan before 65, especially if you have risk factors such as kidney disease or take medications that impact the bones,” says Dr. Beth Quinn, director of clinical education and assistant professor of physical therapy at Bellarmine University. The scan lasts between 10-30 minutes and looks at the spine, hip, and forearm. Results are reported in 2 scores: a T-score (-1 or above = normal) and a Z-score (if Z-score is significantly higher or lower than normal it could be a red flag).
Calcium-Score Screening
The calcium-score screen is a measure of calcium deposits in the coronary artery of your heart. The screening is conducted by a CT scan that uses X-rays to create several images that show any build up in your arteries. The scan takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Results are given as a score between 0-400. A score of 300 or higher indicates severe risk for heart disease or heart attack. Men and women over the age of 40 with an increased risk for heart disease may want to consider this screening. Most insurance policies do not cover this screening.
By Tami Pyles
P.S. Click here to view a recipe which includes several different sources of calcium.
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