Annual checkups are a must especially for seniors or those nearing the retirement age. In fact, it is recommended for everyone as soon as you reach the age of 18, although not that mandatory. At age 30, there is the yearly pelvic exam for women and age 40 will have the recommended mammograms, then EKG for those 50 and above. In other words, as your age progressed, the more important it is for you to have regular annual checkups. It is also important to note that annual checkups are the best way to detect diseases—age-related and otherwise–early on.
But the question is, do we really do it? Ask a hundred seniors if they submit themselves to regular annual checkups and you are most likely to come up with 10-20 “yes” answers. I assure you, they belong to the health conscious group, no less.
For those who are planning to start anew with annual checkups, here are some of the most common tests and exams done every year and some helpful tips to remember before and during your checkup:
•    Routine checkups are done for both men and women. Your blood pressure will be taken as it should be with every visit to your doctor. Your height and weight will be measured too, to ensure you are of your ideal weight. Your blood will be tested for various problems such as glucose levels, mineral content and also for organ functions. Sometimes your doctor will request for stool exam to rule out colon cancer. Last in the list is, EKG for seniors 50 and above to check your heart’s electrical activity.
•    Of course, there will be other exams depending on your health status or your susceptibility to some diseases. For women, there will be mammogram and pelvic exam to ensure your reproductive system has nothing bad on it—or it stays healthy for its age. Bone density test will also be taken as women are prone to osteoporosis. Men on the other hand, will have to endure various exams specifically designed to detect abnormalities in their prostate.
•    This is also the right time to review the medications you are currently taking, including the supplements your body is receiving. Don’t forget to include over-the-counter medications you took for seemingly trivial health conditions.
•    Any changes you notice within your body must be discussed with your doctor. As your doctor, he should know what goes inside your body that cannot be detected by simple lab tests and exams. Things like sleeping problems, weight changes and appetite should be discussed for evaluation.
•    Past hospitalization, allergies, lifestyle and health habits should also be noted when submitting yourself to an annual checkup.