May is Older Americans Month, a time to honor the contributions of older adults while raising awareness about the resources and tools that support aging with dignity, independence, and health. Preventive care is one of the most powerful tools for promoting wellness in older age, which begins with timely, appropriate health screenings.
Early detection saves lives, helps prevent complications, and contributes to a higher quality of life. In addition to common screenings like those for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, there are four other critical assessments that can make a meaningful difference for older adults:
Safety and Functional Ability Screening – Evaluates fall risk, mobility, home safety, and signs of physical or sensory impairments. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in seniors. This screening can also guide decisions about home modifications, support services, or potential transitions to assisted living.
Mental Health Screening – Depression and cognitive decline often go unnoticed in older adults. Screenings help detect early signs of memory issues, anxiety, or substance misuse. When caught early, many mental health concerns can be treated or managed to maintain quality of life.
Physical Health Screening – Looks at overall physical function, including weight, activity levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and bone density. Regular assessments help detect conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, or type 2 diabetes before symptoms become severe.
Cancer Screening – Seniors face an increased risk of various cancers. Screenings for breast, prostate, colon, lung, and cervical cancers help catch disease early, when it’s most treatable. Family history may also guide decisions about which screenings to prioritize.
In addition to health screenings for seniors, it is important to stay up to date on vaccinations and any prescribed medications needed to support overall health.
Health screenings for seniors should be a regular part of annual wellness checks for individuals 65 and older. If an issue is detected, your doctor will recommend the most effective treatment protocol to minimize its impact on your overall health.
When was the last time you had a screening done? Let this be your reminder to schedule an appointment