Preventive Care After 50 Years of Age
Older people over 50 years experience various health complications. Keep reading to learn how preventive care can help improve their mental and physical health.
Written by Dr Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 11th Mar, 2025
As a person reaches 50, preventive care becomes a crucial aspect of their life. It is necessary to detect potential risk factors at an early stage and manage health issues proactively. One can experience several mental and physical changes during their old age, which can lead to chronic diseases.
Recognising the changes at the right time can prevent such issues. Here’s more on how preventive care can improve one’s health and well-being after 50 years of age.
Regular Health Screenings for Adults above 50 Years Age
Both men and women should get regular health check-ups after the age of 50 years to keep a check on their health conditions. Here are some of the check-ups and screenings that help doctors detect risks of severe health issues at an early stage:
Cholesterol Test: Inappropriate cholesterol levels in one's body can lead to heart disease. Thus, doctors suggest cholesterol screening every 4 to 6 years to stay aware of the condition.
Diabetes Test: Increased insulin levels in blood can lead to kidney issues, blindness, etc. Thus, a routine diabetes test to check the insulin level is necessary after 50 years of age.
Bone Mineral Density Scan: This scan helps detect the risks of osteoporosis.
Blood Pressure Check: It is a common test to check the blood pressure level in one’s body.
Pap Test: Doctors recommend this test to check for cervical cancer. A routine pap test at 3 years can keep the condition in check.
Mammogram: This test helps detect breast cancer. Doctors suggest getting this test every 2 years to keep a check on the risks of breast cancer.
Colon Cancer Screening: This is done to check for colon cancer. The screening may include sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, faecal occult blood test, etc.
Get Your Health Checked Regularly
Immunisations for Older Adults
Older people above 50 years of age should get some extra vaccines like the following for immunisation:
Shingle’s Vaccine: Adults above 50 must get this vaccine to stay protected from shingles.
Flu Shot: Older people and those of 6 months should take this vaccination every year.
Pneumonia Vaccine: Individuals above 65 should get this vaccine if they have liver disease, diabetes, lung disease, immunity issues, asthma, etc.
Apart from vaccination, one can follow these guidelines to stay healthy:
Regular exercise
Maintain a healthy weight
Quit smoking
Maintain a balanced diet, etc.
Nutrition and Diet for Adults Above 50 Years
Maintaining a healthy diet for people above 50 years of age is necessary to prevent severe health complications. Here are some of the nutrients that one must include in their diet after 50 years of age:
Fibre: It helps in digestion and improves metabolism, maintaining a healthy body weight. Besides, it absorbs the sugar and normalises one's blood sugar level. Foods that contain high levels of fibre include beans, lentils, seeds, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains like brown rice, barley, oats, popcorn, etc.
Vitamin D: This nutrient strengthens one’s bone health and immunity. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to mental decline, heart issues, depression, type 2 diabetes, etc. The body gets this vitamin mostly from sun exposure. However, certain foods like egg yolk, mushrooms, and fatty fish are good sources of vitamin D to one's body.
Protein: Adequate protein intake helps maintain proper immunity and metabolism. Foods like beans, lentils, fish, poultry, tofu, lean meat, dairy products, nuts, seeds, etc. are rich in protein.
Calcium: It keeps the bone strong, which is a necessary health factor for people above 50 years of age. One should include cheese, yoghurt, milk, leafy vegetables(other than spinach), and almond and soy milk in their diet.
Vitamin B12: This nutrient plays a crucial role in maintaining the production of red blood cells, repairing brain function, metabolism, heart health, etc. Animal foods like fish, eggs, poultry, meat, and dairy products are rich in vitamin B12.
Potassium: Adequate potassium intake helps lower the risks of cardiac issues, high blood pressure, stroke, etc. It also keeps one's bones healthy. Foods rich in potassium include dairy products, meat, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, etc.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Those who consume omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods are at lower risks of neurological disease and mental health issues. Nuts, seeds, algae, flaxseed oil, fatty fish like tuna, salmon, sardines, herrings, etc., are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Antioxidants: These can protect one from chronic diseases and aging by neutralising free radical compounds. Food rich in vitamins E, C, and A, selenium, copper, zinc, etc. are rich in antioxidants.
Physical Activity and Exercise for Adults above 50 Years Age
Older people above the age of 50 years should consult with their healthcare providers regarding the adoption of fitness activities in their regular lives. Here are some of the tips regarding regular exercise after the age of 50 years:
One should adopt light exercises every day to keep oneself physically active.
People over 50 should minimise prolonged periods of sitting or lying down and incorporate regular movement to avoid extended inactivity.
One can adopt moderate-intensity activity for 150 minutes or vigorous-intensity activity for 75 minutes weekly. A combination of both types can also be effective.
Adopting fitness activities that improve flexibility, balance, and strength is necessary at least twice a week.
Managing Chronic Conditions Above 50 Years of Age
Various chronic diseases can be prevalent in a person after reaching the age of 50 years. Here are some common chronic conditions that an elderly person may face:
Arthritis (acute joint pains)
Diabetes
High blood pressure or hypertension
Cardiovascular issues
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
One can follow these tips to manage these chronic conditions after 50 years of age:
Maintaining a balanced diet that contains adequate nutrients is essential to stay fit and protected from the risks of diseases.
One should take their medicines on time and get a routine health check-up to keep a check on their health conditions.
Regular physical activity within safe limits can help elderly people stay protected from chronic diseases.
Stress management keeps one's mental state healthy and protects them from developing chronic conditions.
It is essential to monitor one’s symptoms and consult with a doctor upon noticing any concerning signs.
Mental Health and Cognitive Well-being for Adults Above 50 Years
Psychological health issues such as depression and anxiety can affect older adults significantly. Identifying the signs of these issues is necessary to improve one’s mental and cognitive well-being. People going through such issues may experience the following behavioural changes:
Sleeping disorders
Highly worried or stressed
Suicidal thoughts
Unusual behaviour
Anger issues
Dependence on drugs, etc.
To promote cognitive wellness, older adults should engage in mentally stimulating activities, maintain social connections, get therapy, take medicines, and manage stress through relaxation techniques.
Conclusion
Prioritising preventive care after 50 years is essential for ensuring a healthy future. By taking proactive steps today, such as scheduling regular check-ups and making healthier lifestyle choices, individuals can significantly enhance their quality of life as they age.
Staying socially active and engaged can also contribute to mental well-being and overall happiness during later years.
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