As people age, maintaining good health becomes more important and often more complicated. To motivate individuals to lead their healthiest lives, Univera Healthcare emphasizes the value of preventive care through science-based wellness timelines.

These guidelines, based on recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), describe when people should seek routine wellness checks and screenings according to age and risk factors. From yearly physicals and blood pressure checks to cancer screenings and mental health evaluations, these recommendations aim to help individuals take proactive steps toward their long-term health.

“As we see people entering their 60s and 70s, we know that when they follow the recommended screenings at the suggested times, they are more likely to lead healthier lives,” said Ankit Garg, M.D., Univera Healthcare’s VP of Medical Affairs. “We understand that medical tests can be intimidating and that life often interferes with scheduling care, but the reality is that only about 59% of our members aged 65 and older complete their annual care visits, which are a crucial step in preventive screenings. We’re encouraging people to take that step, not just because it’s recommended, but because these actions genuinely improve their quality of life.”

Here’s some useful wellness advice for people over 60, based on Univera Healthcare’s preventive care guidelines. Your annual physical and wellness visit is essential for maintaining good health. Both can be scheduled with your primary care provider (PCP) on the same day, if your PCP’s schedule permits.

Screenings to Stay Ahead

  • Blood pressure: At least once a year
  • Cholesterol: Every 4–6 years, or more often if at risk
  • Colorectal cancer: Start regular screenings at age 45, or sooner if at risk
  • Mammogram: Recommended every 1–2 years for women
  • Bone density test: Recommended especially for women 65 and older or those at risk for osteoporosis
  • Diabetes screening: Annually if overweight or have risk factors

Immunizations

  • Annual flu shot
  • Shingles vaccine: Two doses starting after age 50
  • Pneumococcal vaccine: One or two doses based on health status
  • COVID-19 vaccine: Keep current with latest recommendations

Mental & Cognitive Health

  • Ask your provider about screenings for depression, memory loss, or cognitive decline

Fall Prevention & Bone Health

  • Discuss balance, mobility, and home safety
  • Think about your vitamin D and calcium intake

Oral, Vision & Hearing Care

  • Regular dental cleanings and eye exams
  • Hearing checks, especially if you notice any changes

Talk to your PCP about which visits and tests are suitable for you. Also, be sure to discuss other topics with your PCP, such as your physical activity, fall risk, hearing difficulties, or bladder concerns. No matter how small the issue, your PCP can help you create a plan to address it. To learn more about what’s involved in both the annual physical and the annual wellness visit for people on Medicare, and to find a checklist of other routine exams, visit https://medicare.univerahealthcare.com/documents/d/global/uni-inp-adult-over-65-plus-preventive-health-checklist.