How Often Should Seniors See the Doctor?

As you age, you often develop many health concerns requiring frequent doctor visits. Aging goes in hand with weakening your immune system, which is sorely responsible for helping your body fight numerous health issues. However, many argue whether there is a standard recommendation on how often aged adults should seek medical help. For this reason, Dr. Thomas Nguyen, highlights how often you should see a doctor during your prime years and the importance thereof.

Frequent geriatrics visits act as a guard for your health

Averagely, American seniors make a minimum of four visits annually to their doctors. However, this number can vary according to one’s specific health concerns. For instance, seniors with chronic health conditions can make more geriatric visits than those with minor health issues. Nevertheless, it is recommended that all seniors get annual physical exams to check for any health condition before it worsens. Getting old means you are becoming weaker, and ignoring the efforts of early checks can only cause you more harm. There is typically no set limit on the number of health examinations to get. In fact, the more you see your doctor often, the more you will safeguard your overall health in the long run.

Reasons why you seniors should see a doctor often

While numerous health concerns can affect the quality of life of aging adults, early diagnosis and prevention is the best key to safeguarding their health. However, here are the most common reasons you should see your doctor in your golden years.

1.     For mobility and balance assessments  

Your walking capabilities can be affected by age-related health concerns like arthritis, thus affecting your mobility. Generally, many aged adults develop difficulties in mobility and balance, especially when they don’t have a helping hand from a medical professional. That said, frequent visits to your geriatric doctor can help detect the problem earlier and the necessary treatments offered.

2.     For preventive health

The best way to safeguard your health as a senior is to incorporate effective preventive measures. Cases of diabetes, high blood sugar, and joint issues are common problems that all aged adults can avoid. Your doctor can advise you on the dos and don’ts to ensure your health is safer.

3.     For routine blood checks

Seniors should get frequent blood checkups for high cholesterol, anemia, and mineral and vitamin deficiency. In a nutshell, your doctor can assess any chronic condition through various blood tests and offer the relevant medical help for your aid.

4.     For chronic disease management

Aged adults are susceptible to various chronic conditions. If ignored, chronic diseases can cause death or disability. However, regular visits to a geriatric doctor will be instrumental in helping you manage and sometimes overcome any chronic condition affecting your everyday life.

5.     For medications and complex care needs

Health issues like diabetes and high cholesterol levels require frequent use of medications. It can be hectic to understand what drugs to use and how to prescribe them. However, a geriatric doctor will diagnose your condition the very moment it starts to interfere with your typical life. Moreover, your doctor will review and update your medications according to your current health needs.

Being a senior adult, staying up-to-date with your health status is crucial even when you are feeling well. Frequent visits to a geriatric doctor will add more value to your health and safeguard it in the long run.