If you’re referring to a headline-style health claim, the idea behind it is that routine care after age 65 may involve more than the usual blood pressure and cholesterol checks. However, there is no universal list of “secret tests” that every older adult needs. Recommended screenings depend on a person’s health, family history, medications, lifestyle, and risk factors.
Five areas doctors often pay attention to in adults over 65 include:
1. Bone health screening
- Test: Bone density scan (DEXA)
- Why it matters: Helps detect osteoporosis and fracture risk.
- Who may need it: Many women 65+ and some men or younger people with risk factors.
2. Hearing evaluation
- Test: Hearing screening or audiology evaluation
- Why it matters: Untreated hearing loss can affect communication, safety, and social connection.
3. Vision checks
- Test: Comprehensive eye exam
- Why it matters: Helps detect cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and vision changes that can increase fall risk.
4. Medication review
- Assessment: “Medication check” with a doctor or pharmacist
- Why it matters: Older adults are more likely to take multiple medicines, increasing the chance of side effects or interactions.
5. Fall-risk and mobility assessment
- Assessment: Balance, walking ability, muscle strength, and home safety review
- Why it matters: Falls are a major cause of injuries in older adults, and many risks can be reduced.
Other commonly considered screenings may include vaccines, colorectal cancer screening, blood sugar testing, depression screening, abdominal aortic aneurysm screening for some men, and memory/cognitive assessments when concerns arise.
A good next step is to ask your clinician: “Which preventive screenings are recommended for me based on my age, health history, and risk factors?”
