Aging is a complex process that researchers only recently have begun to understand. No matter what genes we’ve inherited, our bodies continually undergo complex biochemical reactions. Some of these reactions can cause damage, and, as we age, our body organs and other systems make changes that can affect our susceptibility to various medical conditions and diseases.
While many of these processes still are not completely understood, scientific evidence shows that many of the causes of aging can be modified through our behaviors. Research shows that there are steps we can take to help us age healthfully and live longer.
The following information, from the National Institute on Aging, offers some evidence-based action we can take toward the goal of successful aging.
Remember: Before trying anything new, talk with your doctor about what approaches might be best for you.
Staying Healthy at 50+
Daily Steps to Good Health
- Be tobacco free.
- Be physically active.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
Screening Tests and Preventive Medicine
Heart and Vascular Diseases
- Aspirin to prevent heart attack: Men at risk* — Ages 50 to 80.
- Aspirin to prevent stroke: Women at risk* — Ages 55 to 80.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Test: Once for men who have smoked — Ages 65 to 75.
- Blood Pressure Screening Test: All men and women — Ages 50 and older, at least every two years.
- Cholesterol Screening Test: All men and women — Ages 50 and older.
- Diabetes Screening Test: Men and women — Ages 50 and older with high blood pressure.
- Breast Cancer Screening (Mammogram): All women — Ages 50 and older, every one to two years.
- Breast Cancer Preventive Medicines: Women at risk*— Ages 50 to 80.
- Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Test): All women — Ages 50 to 65, at least every three years.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening Test: All men and women — Ages 50 and older.
- Osteoporosis Screening (Bone Density Scan): Women at risk* — Ages 60 to 65, and all women — Ages 65 and older.
- HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening Tests: Men and women at risk* — Ages 50 and older.
- Depression Screening: All men and women — Ages 50 and older.
- Flu Vaccine: All men and women — Ages 50 and older, annually.
- Other Vaccines: You can prevent some serious diseases, such as pneumonia, whooping cough, tetanus, and shingles, by being vaccinated. Talk with your doctor about which vaccines you need and when to get them.
* Being at risk means that you may be more likely to develop a specific disease or condition. Whether you are at risk depends on your family history, things you do or don’t do (such as exercising regularly or using tobacco), and other health conditions you might have (such as diabetes). If you think you might be at risk for a specific disease, talk with your doctor.
Looking to learn more? Attend Our Third Annual Baby Boomer 50+ Health Expo.
Whether you’re concerned about weight gain, sex drive or chronic diseases, the key to healthy aging is a healthy lifestyle. Better yet, it’s never too late to make healthier lifestyle choices. As we age, good health and an active lifestyle is an achievable goal.
Join us on May 5 for Cooper’s Third Annual Baby Boomer 50+ Health Expo, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Cherry Hill.
Cooper physicians will discuss numerous topics, including:
- Own Your Bones.
- What About Those Varicose Veins?
- Owner’s Manual for Your Heart.
- Sexual Health and Aging.
- My Aching Feet–Podiatry.
…and more! Health screenings and the health expo kick off at 4 p.m., with a light dinner, seminars and prizes beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Pre-registration is required. Call 1.800.826.6737 to reserve your spot now.