Health check-ups, far from being a waste of time, can help you preserve your health and act quickly in the event of a problem. Here’s a closer look at the check-ups you shouldn’t miss after the age of 60!
A cardiac check-up
At 60, the heart can show signs of fatigue. Even if there are no symptoms, it’s best to make an appointment with your cardiologist to prevent a cardiovascular accident, especially if you decide to resume physical activity.
The cardiologist will assess risk factors (hypertension, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excess weight, stress…). Follow-up is essential in the event of a heart attack or stroke.
An eye check-up
As we age, our eyesight tends to deteriorate. That’s why it’s important to visit your ophthalmologist at least once a year to adjust your vision correction if necessary.
It’s also an opportunity to spot certain eye pathologies: age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma or cataracts.
A prostate examination (for men)
Prostate-related pathologies are often silent, which is why sexual and urinary function tests are essential from a certain age. Ageing causes a slow but irreversible decline in the production of male hormones.
Prostate cancer screening will be offered by means of a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) assay and a digital rectal examination.
A gynecological examination (for women)
Gynaecological monitoring is important, even and especially in the case of menopause.
A smear test is taken to ensure that there are no precancerous lesions. Possible problems of urinary incontinence, sexual problems or mood disorders linked to hormonal variations can also be discussed.
For women, too, a breast examination and mammogram are crucial. The risk of breast cancer increases with age. A mammogram is therefore recommended every 1-2 years.
Colorectal cancer screening
Detected at an early stage, colorectal cancer is curable in 90% of cases.
Screening consists of a stool blood test every two years for people with no known risk factors.
It’s simple to carry out, and is done at home by taking a stool sample on a cotton swab, which is then placed directly into a small tube sent to the laboratory in a pre-filled, pre-stamped envelope.