While many jokes may start off with “A man walked into a doctor’s office…” the statistics of how many men do walk into doctor’s offices may surprise you!
You may have heard that men are less likely than women to visit doctors for preventative care. Here’s the sobering truth: men are 40% less likely than women to visit doctors for preventative care. This reluctance could be due to societal pressures, a fear of vulnerability, or simply feeling swamped. But here’s the truth: prioritizing health isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength – allowing you to be there for the people you love, longer and stronger.
This statistic may be one of the factors contributing to another often-cited statistic that shares that women on average, outlive men by around 7 years worldwide.
This week let’s turn the tables, by giving the greatest gift you can give to those you love, a healthier version of you, by taking charge of your health!
Ways for Older Men to Prioritize Preventative Care
Ready to stay on top of your game, no matter your age? Here are some key strategies for men aged 55+ to prioritize preventative healthcare:
- Fuel Your Body Right: Ditch the processed junk and sugary drinks. Instead, focus on a balanced diet packed with colorful fruits and veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. You’ll feel energized and ready to tackle anything.
- Fiber-Filled Fact: Senior men are recommended 30 grams of dietary fiber a day—so pack in whole grains, lentils, fruits, beans, and vegetables!
- Move Your Body: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week. Think brisk walking, biking, swimming – anything that gets your heart pumping. Your body (and mind) will thank you for it.
- De-Stress for Success: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your health. Find healthy outlets to manage stress, like meditation, yoga, or simply spending time in nature. You’ll be surprised how much better and happier you feel.
- Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Rest is essential for overall health, improves focus, and keeps your immune system strong.
- Zzzzs hard to catch? You’re not alone! Sleep often becomes more elusive with age due to changes in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) which controls our circadian rhythms, in other words, the 24-hour daily cycles our body is used to. Conditions that are more prevalent in older adults such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and medication usage may also affect sleep. A well-balanced diet, regular movement, and good nighttime habits may aid in getting the quality of sleep needed for optimal health outcomes.
- Partner with Your Doctor: Schedule regular checkups – they’re key to catching potential health problems early. These checkups become even more important as you age. Talk to your doctor about specific screenings you might need based on your age and family history. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Regular Checkups Needed for Senior Men
-
Men aged 50 years and older should make annual exams part of their preventative care routine. Even if you’re feeling healthy! Regular exams, including annual blood panels, can help establish a baseline that makes it easy to identify problems earlier.
-
Were you a smoker and you’re now between the ages of 65 and 75? You may want to get a one-time ultrasound screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm.
-
Blood pressure checks can be a part of a regular examination. However, if you’re not getting those annually, you do want to check your blood pressure at least every two years. If you have a history of high blood pressure or family history, then you may want to check it more often.
-
Similar to blood pressure checks being a regular part of annual exams, tests for cholesterol and diabetes may also be part of those exams if your doctor feels they are warranted.
-
Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer is men and is most likely to affect older men. Talk to your doctor about the recommended checkup for prostate cancer based on your history and risk factors.
-
Colon Cancer is also a common cancer in seniors with around 60% of those diagnosed being over the age of 70 years old. Screening recommendations begin at age 45 unless you’ve had a family member with a history of colon cancer and then it is 10 years prior to their diagnosis. While colonoscopy is an effective and commonly used screening for colon cancer, there are also other more non-invasive types of screenings available.
Seek Help When You Need It
Dads, uncles, husbands, brothers… men, you don’t have to be the silent strongman! Break down barriers and prioritize your well-being, and live a longer, healthier, and happier life.
Open communication is key. Don’t bottle up your feelings. Talk to your loved ones about any health concerns, big or small. Early detection and treatment can make a world of difference.
Mental health matters too! It’s okay for men to experience stress, anxiety, or depression. Let’s normalize these conversations and encourage seeking help if needed. Resources like Groups For Men and other men’s mental health support groups are available online and in many communities.
Use this post as a springboard, not a finish line. By prioritizing health throughout the year, senior men can enjoy a longer, happier life, creating lasting memories with their families and friends. Taking charge of health isn’t selfish, it’s a gift to yourself and the people you love most.
Did you enjoy this post? Read more in the post Thriving in the Golden Years: Men’s Health and the Benefits of Senior Living.
