Beyond The Basics: Tests Your Loved Ones May Not Know They Need

As a nurse and an adult child to aging parents, I understand wanting to keep them living their very best lives.

In my last two blogs I talked about common tests that we and our parents should have regularly to monitor our health. In this blog, we will dive deeper into tests specifically for the older population.

Some you will obviously know because you get them yourself, but some you may not have heard of and are crucial for detecting and preventing age-related health issues. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential tests aging individuals should consider, along with recommendations on when to start, how often to repeat them, and where to get the test:

Colorectal (Colon) Cancer Screening:

Initial Age: Starting at 45-50 years old, depending individual risk factors.

Why: Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women. Screening can detect precancerous growths or early-stage cancer when treatment is most effective.

Where to get the test: This procedure is commonly done in the hospital. However, there are now tests that can be done conveniently at home. These are not recommended for individuals with a family history of colon cancer and are not as thorough or accurate. HOWEVER, I like them as an option to start testing even earlier than guidelines recommend and when insurance will not pay for a test yet.

How often: Every five to ten years

Bone Density Assessment (Dexa Scan):

Initial Age: Starting around age 65 for women and age 70 for men, however I recommend as soon as possible after age 50, especially if you have risk factors such as family history or certain medications.

Why: Osteoporosis is a silent but serious concern for aging adults. By assessing bone density, we can identify potential risks for fractures and take preventive measures.

Where to get the test: This test is like an x-ray and usually will be done in the hospital by a radiologist.

How Often: After 65 Medicare will cover the cost of the test once every 24 months.

Pro-Tip: Shop around!!! Out of pocket costs for a Dexa Scan before the Medicare age of 65, range from $160 to $1319, depending on where you live and which services the clinic provides.

The Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination (ACE III):

ACE III is a comprehensive cognitive assessment tool designed to detect early signs of cognitive impairment and dementia.

Initial Age: Age 65 but a baseline after age 50 would be helpful to detect issues later.

Why: Evaluates memory, attention, language, and visuospatial abilities Detects early signs of cognitive impairment and dementia. Provides valuable insights into cognitive health

Where to get the test: The test should be conducted by a physician, nurse or therapist and interpreted. However, I have linked the test below and the interpretation so you can show your parents physician to see if they perform the test. It should be something provided after age 65.

How often: Every couple years to be proactive with cognitive health.

Pro-tip: Here is the link to the NIH article about the test, and the interpretation to show your physician.

Mammogram (for Women):

Initial Age: Starting at 40-50 years old, depending on the guidelines and individual risk factors.

Why: Mammograms can detect breast cancer at an early stage, improving the chances of successful treatment.

Where to get the test: The order should be placed during your annual primary care physician appointment and the test can be conducted at the hospital or breast center (depending on your location/resources).

Frequency: Every one to two years, as recommended by healthcare providers. After age 75 mammograms are recommended every 1-2 years.

Prostate Cancer Screening (for Men):

Initial Age: Starting at 50 years old, although earlier screening may be recommended for individuals at higher risk.

Why: Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. Screening aims to detect cancer early when treatment is most effective.

Where to get the test: Both tests can be performed at your primary care physician’s office during your annual screening. One is a digital rectal exam and one is a blood test called a PSA test.

Frequency: Every one to two years, based on individual risk factors and discussions with healthcare providers.

Pap Smear (for Women):

Initial Age: Starting at 21 years old or within three years of becoming sexually active, whichever comes first.

Why: Regular gynecological exams, including Pap smears, help detect cervical cancer and other reproductive health issues early.

Frequency: Annual pap smears are not required after age 65 if you have had several negative tests in a row. Coincidentally, Medicare also stops paying for pap smears after age 65. Personally, I am recommending my mother does one at least every 3 years.

Pro-Tip: Shop Around!!! The cost of a Pelvic Exam with Pap Smear ranges from $125 to $273 without insurance.

Electrocardiogram (EKG):

Initial Age: Generally considered for individuals with symptoms or risk factors for heart disease. An EKG is not a normal test recommended. HOWEVER, I would like to have a baseline so that I can detect if abnormalities are present for the future if issues arrive.

Why: EKGs can detect abnormal heart rhythms.

Frequency: I would recommend at baseline after age 50. Then, as recommended by healthcare providers based on individual risk factors and clinical indications.

Pro-tip: Shop Around!! The cost of an EKG is $24 – $112

It’s important to note that these recommendations are general guidelines, and individual circumstances may warrant earlier or more frequent testing. Factors such as personal medical history, family history, lifestyle habits, and existing health conditions should all be taken into account when determining the appropriate screening schedule.

Encourage your parents to have open discussions with their healthcare providers about their health concerns, risk factors, and screening options. Being proactive about preventive care can significantly impact their quality of life as they age.

Remember, as a nurse, I’m here to support you and your family every step of the way. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.

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