Preventive Screenings for Adults Age 65 and Older
Stay Ahead of Your Health With Regular Check-Ups
As we age, regular health screenings and preventive care become even more important. These screenings help detect health problems early — often before symptoms start — so they can be treated more effectively.
Recommended Screenings for Adults 65+
General Health
- Annual Wellness Exam – A yearly check-in with your provider to review your health, medications, and make a personalized care plan.
- Blood Pressure Screening – At least once a year, or more often if needed.
- Body Mass Index (BMI), Height, and Weight – Annually, or more often.
- Cardiovascular Risk Assessment – Patients aged 20 years or older should undergo cardiovascular risk assessment at least every 3-5 years
- Fall Risk Assessment – At least every year, especially if you’ve had a fall or feel unsteady.
- Hearing Screening – Annually or if you notice changes.
- Vision, Glaucoma Screening – periodically, or as needed
- Advance Directive – recommended to have your advance directive, living will, designation of healthcare power of attorney properly documented
Lab Tests & Screenings
- Cholesterol and Lipid Panel – Frequency, and age to considering stopping screening, depends on risk level
- Diabetes Screening – HgbA1c level in adults 35-70 years old who are at increased risk for diabetes and/or have cardiovascular risk factors
- Vitamin D, TSH – As recommended by your healthcare provider
- Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan)
- Women: all women age 65 years and older
- Men: as recommended based on risk factors
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening: One time ultrasound screening for AAA in men ages 65-75 years old who are current or former smokers, or who have never smoked but who have a first-degree relative who required repair of an AAA or died from a ruptured AAA
- Hepatitis C Screening: one time for adults between 18-79 years old
- HIV Screening: until age 75
- STI Screening: as needed
- Hepatitis B Screening: one time for adults 18 years and older
Cancer Screenings
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: Adults age 45-85 years old, frequency varies based on screening strategy. May need screening starting sooner based on risk factors.
- Breast Cancer Screening (Mammogram) – Every 1–2 years
- Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap and/or HPV Test) – May be stopped after age 65 if there’s a history of normal results; discuss with your provider.
- Prostate Cancer Screening (PSA Test) – Individualized decision for men.
- Lung Cancer Screening (Low-Dose CT) – Annually for adults age 50–80 with a history of heavy smoking and current or recent smokers.
Vaccinations
- Flu Shot – Every year.
- Shingles Vaccine – Two doses starting at age 50 for most individuals. Talk to your healthcare provider.
- Pneumococcal Vaccine – Doses depending on health status and vaccine history.
- Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis (Td or Tdap) – Booster every 10 years.
- Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B Vaccines – As needed. Talk to your healthcare provider
- RSV Vaccine – Discuss with your healthcare provider
- COVID-19 Vaccines and Boosters – As recommended. Discuss with your healthcare provider
Mental & Cognitive Health
- Depression Screening – Annually or more often if needed.
- Memory and Cognitive Screening – Periodically if concerns arise with memory or daily functioning.
Tips for Staying on Track
- Keep a written list of your past screenings, results, and test dates.
- Bring your medication list and health questions to every appointment.
- Let your provider know about any new symptoms, no matter how small.
Preventive Care Is a Lifelong Investment
Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations help you stay independent, active, and well. Talk to your healthcare provider about a personalized preventive care plan based on your health, family history, and lifestyle. These are general recommendations. Please discuss all preventive health, screenings, testing, and vaccination recommendations with your healthcare provider to determine what is specifically recommended for you.