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Great health at every age

by Simone McClenaughan | 26 Oct 2015

 

These years are called your ‘golden years’ for a reason – they are meant to be enjoyed. Here’s how you can make the most of them and stay on top of your health game.

50s

Visit your GP

“It’s the time to develop a health care plan with your doctor, and a time when many routine health screens start,” says Dr Magdalena Simonis of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. “These may include bowel cancer screenings, mammograms, prostate cancer screenings and chronic non-communicable diseases screenings such as blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis and diabetes.” 

A mental health note

Dr Stephen Carbone, Policy, Research and Evaluation Leader at Beyond Blue says it’s important to stay socially active and maintain positive connections with friends and family.

Say hello to grandkids

If you haven’t already done so, brush up on your CPR and get your First Aid certificate, especially if you’ll be looking after your grandkids from time to time. 

Take care

Good physical health and diet habits will set you up for the rest of your life, says Dr Carbone. 

Dr Simonis warns that if you are female and still menstruating, use contraception to avoid unwanted pregnancies even at this age.

 

60s

Sort out your will

“Exercise and eat well as this will help your energy levels, increase your mobility, keep your bones healthy and strong, and help reduce the risk of falls,” says Dr Simonis. “Also, sort out your wills and power of attorney.” 

A helping hand

“Consider volunteering, as it will help to give you purpose and add structure to your days,” says Dr Carbone. 

Get globetrotting

Once you hit 65, you may be eligible for an Australian Pensioner Concession Card, allowing you to travel around Australia for reduced or even free fares.

Make a plan

“It’s important to plan for your retirement and how you’d like to spend it,” advises Dr Carbone. “People who plan cope better than those who don’t.”

It also pays to be aware that your risk of many chronic diseases and conditions increases during your 60s. These include arthritis, osteoarthritis, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and heart disease.

As such, stay on top of your health and ensure you get regular health check-ups.

 

70s

Get immunised

“Get preventative immunisations such as flu and shingles,” says Dr Simonis.

Keep active

“Keep physically active by exercising, gardening, dancing, or community clubs,” says Dr Carbone.

“It’s vital to maintain enjoyment of your life.” 

What to look forward to this decade

Making new friends and connections by participating in a range of hobbies and activities. 

Take care

“Be aware that chronic illness may strike in this decade, and you may become a carer for your spouse. Being a carer can be draining, so it is important to

still do things for yourself too,” warns Dr Carbone.

 

80s

Get your medications reviewed

“Get your medications reviewed with your doctor as your needs may have changed and to avoid any confusion,” says Dr Simonis.

As with in your 70s, declining health of partners might be an issue.

“Talk to your GP if you live with a partner who has declining health and cognitive function,” suggests Dr Simonis. “Being a carer to your loved one when you yourself are older can be a strain and seeking the support of community services can be arranged through your GP.” 

A best friend to rely on

“During this decade, you may lose people around you. Pets can help keep you company if you feel lonely,” explains Dr Carbone. Perhaps try tai chi or qi gong to stay on top of your mental wellbeing and balance. 

Get involved

“Being involved in a variety of clubs and social groups,” says Dr Carbone. 

Put the keys away

“You may have to give up driving due to health or declining reflexes, so it’s wise to be aware of this so it doesn’t come as a shock. Discover other transport options and how to use them,” says Dr Carbone.

 

90s

Train your brain

“Work on your memory through games and activities as your memory and cognition tends to decline during this decade,” says Dr Simonis.

Remember the good old days

“You may be transitioning to aged care at this stage and this can be challenging. Work with others to reminisce and review your life in order to feel proud about your legacy,” says Dr Corbone.

What a century

“Becoming a great grandparent, and maybe even getting a letter from the Queen when you reach your 100th birthday,” suggests Dr Carbone.

Seize the day

“You have more time behind you, than ahead of you now, but don’t dwell on what you may have lost. Instead make the most of each day,” says Dr Carbone.