As you grow older, you should begin looking into medical screenings that are considered must-have tests for your age group. Those who are over fifty years old have to pay closer attention to blood pressure, cholesterol, and a large amount of other crucial functions of your body. Although some of these screenings may not be something you want to do, getting the right tests done can help catch problems early and lead to a longer and healthier life.

In this article, we’ll discuss five of the most vital screenings that you should make sure to get when you’re getting older. First, we’ll discuss cholesterol screening and colonoscopy. Then, we’ll talk about getting a bone density test and mammogram. Finally, we’ll talk about getting a pap smear.

1Cholesterol Screening

One of the most important tests, a cholesterol screening, should not be omitted from a physical checkup. Men are more prone to high cholesterol, but studies show that women over the age of fifty tend to develop high cholesterol over the years. It can also be genetic, so make sure to take extra caution if there’s a history of it in your family.

High cholesterol is one of the leading causes of heart attacks and strokes. This makes it one of the most essential tests on this list. As you grow older, make sure that your cholesterol levels are checked periodically.

2Colonoscopy

Getting a colonoscopy is never high on anyone’s to-do list, but it should be. A colonoscopy is a test often used to search for colon cancer in both men and women. Even if you don’t want to, it is a necessary test to schedule.

It also allows for a doctor to see any subtle bleeding that may be occurring without your knowledge. For males, a colonoscopy can also alert their doctor if they have prostate cancer. It’s a very essential test and should be high on your priority list.

3Bone Density Test

As you age, your bones can weaken and begin to lose density. This is why you must take a bone density test as you grow older. This test is usually recommended for men and women who are over sixty, but if you’re at a higher risk, it may be needed before that age.

One of the high-risk factors is osteoporosis, a condition where bones become brittle. When you have osteoporosis, you’re more likely to fracture or break bones, making a bone density test even more essential. With this condition, a fall can be more serious when you’re older.

4Breast Exams

As you get older, it’s crucial that you don’t slack on breast exams. Starting at the age of forty, women should have regular mammograms done once a year. However, some doctors advise it less frequently now.

The risk of breast cancer increases with age, so skipping out on breast exams and mammograms can cause a serious health risk. It’s also genetic and can be common throughout families. If you have a family history of breast cancer, your doctor may suggest an exam twice a year instead of just once.

5Pap Smear

For women, a pap smear may be just as important as a breast exam or mammogram. Women in their fifties and sixties are just as susceptible to cervical cancer as young women are. Make sure that you’re having this test taken as recommended.

Pap smears are recommended for women every two years regardless of whether or not they’re sexually active. These screenings aren’t just for cancer. They can also help your doctor check for irregular bleeding or other problems.

Now, we’ve talked about five of the most vital medical tests you should make sure to get as you age. First, we covered cholesterol screening and colonoscopy. We followed it up with getting a bone density test and mammogram. Finally, we discussed getting a pap smear.

Medical screenings are never particularly fun. But they’re vital for making sure that you stay healthy and live a long and happy life. So make sure that you always have the most important medical tests and screenings scheduled as needed.