In the past, a visit to the doctor may have felt more like a hypothetical situation—something you’d do “if necessary.” A sore knee or strange bump might have seemed like something that would go away on its own. But as we age, it’s important to adopt a more proactive approach to healthcare. Routine doctor’s appointments and regular consultations with specialists become critical, as health can change quickly in our senior years.
Here are four key things older adults should discuss with their doctor to ensure they’re staying on top of their health:
1. Eyesight
As we age, vision changes are inevitable. Difficulty seeing objects up close, adjusting to varying light levels, or distinguishing colors may seem like minor inconveniences—but these can signal serious issues such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. In fact, according to the National Eye Institute, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over 50, affecting approximately 10 million Americans.
A regular eye exam is crucial to catch these conditions early. The National Institute on Aging recommends that adults aged 60 and older have a dilated eye exam every one to two years. Early detection can prevent vision loss and ensure that your prescriptions stay up-to-date. You can read more about the importance of eye health in older adults here.
2. Hearing
Did you know that approximately one in three adults over 60 experience some form of hearing loss? This number increases to one in two for those over 85, according to the American Academy of Audiology. Even if you haven’t worked in noisy environments or been exposed to loud sounds, age-related changes in blood flow, nerves, and the inner ear can gradually affect your hearing.
Early detection is vital—by regularly testing your hearing, your doctor can recommend treatments like hearing aids or therapy to help preserve your hearing. Research shows that untreated hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline and even increased social isolation. Read more on hearing loss in seniors here.
3. Heart Health
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for older adults in the U.S., with an estimated 1 in 4 deaths attributed to cardiovascular disease. As we age, changes in blood pressure, heart valve function, and artery elasticity can increase the risk of heart-related issues. While regular checkups with your doctor are crucial to monitor heart health, there are lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk.
For example, research from the American Heart Association has shown that adults who walk 4,500 steps a day have a 77% lower risk of cardiovascular events compared to those who walk fewer than 2,000 steps a day. Regular physical activity, like walking, can significantly improve heart health and overall well-being. Read more about heart disease in older adults here.
4. Balance
Maintaining balance is crucial to preventing falls, which are one of the leading causes of injury and death among older adults. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one in four older adults falls each year, with falls accounting for millions of emergency room visits annually. Muscle loss, combined with changes in vision, hearing, and heart health, can affect balance and increase the risk of falling.
A previous fall can double the likelihood of falling again. Regular balance assessments and exercises can help reduce this risk. Your doctor may recommend a personalized fitness plan that focuses on strength and balance. To learn more about fall prevention, visit the CDC’s page here.
How Hazel Dell Assisted Living Can Help
At Hazel Dell Assisted Living, we understand the importance of proactive healthcare. Our dedicated team assists residents in scheduling doctor’s appointments, tracking medications, and ensuring they follow prescribed care plans. We also offer a variety of programming designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit—supporting both mental and physical health.
To learn more about how we support our residents or to schedule a visit, please contact our team.