Health Checkups
As a person ages there are essential checkups for the elderly that should not be ignored. In fact health checkups become more important than ever. As you age your body starts breaking down just from aging. It is very important that your health is monitored to be able to function as easily as you can.
Dr. Richard Besser, ABC’s Senior Health and Medical Editor, reported recently that colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Of the 50,000 people who die each year, it’s estimated that 20,000 lives could have been saved. As astonishing as that sounds, a colonoscopy is the only test that can detect and simultaneously remove precancerous polyps at the same time.
Eliminate Worry
It’s recommended that your first colonoscopy be performed at age 50. If there are no problems, follow up is typically in another 10 years. And, every two years for the elderly.
My Story
Just this week, my husband and I found ourselves at this juncture — facing our ten year anniversary and the essential need for another colonoscopy. I cannot tell you that I was delighted by the need for this health checkup. I gauged each life event, like my son’s wedding and the birth of my granddaughter, all with the realization of how much time remained between me and my next colonoscopy. The test itself is not a non-event. It’s the preparation for the test which may turn you off. But, what does an overnight of running to the bathroom gain us? In one word — our health and maybe even our life.
As it turned out, my husband’s test was perfect. But, in my case, Dr. Robert Atkins found two polyps. These polyps were removed at the time of the test and then whisked to the lab for a biopsy. The good news is no cancer. I will return in five years and instead of my unrealistic whining, this essential health checkup is my turn for better senior care for me.
Now it’s Your Turn
Caring for your aging parents is one of life’s toughest jobs. Getting a colonoscopy is relatively easy — and can save your life. Are you willing to save your own life? Schedule your colonoscopy today. You’ll be one step closer in taking care of your senior years.
About the Author
Beverly Bernstein Joie is the founder and president of Complete Care Strategies, a senior care management company serving Philadelphia and its surrounding communities. A Certified Aging Life Care Manager with more than 20 years of experience, Beverly has worked in senior care since 1994, both in assisted living communities and in private practice. She is a member of the Aging Life Care Association and was a former president of the Philadelphia Chapter.
Complete Care Strategies consists of care managers, specialized human service professionals, who advocate and direct the care of seniors and others facing ongoing health challenges. Working with families, its expertise provides the answers at a time of uncertainty. Along with its licensed home care division, it can help clients safely remain at home under the watchful eye of skilled professionals. Families are afforded an integrated model of care that, with guidance and advocacy, lead them to the actions and decisions that ensure quality care and an optimal life for those they love