Screening Tests You Shouldn’t Skip After 65
Photo source: openverse, Comms Engage, Flickr
Turning 65 is a great excuse to check in with your body, not just your birthday cake budget. Regular screening tests for seniors play a big role in catching health issues early, often before symptoms appear. Here in New Zealand, several free or subsidised checks are available through your GP or national programmes, so there is little reason to put them off.
Heart health checks
A cardiovascular risk assessment looks at blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels together. Your GP can arrange this, and it helps identify your risk of heart attack or stroke well before problems develop.
Bowel screening
New Zealand’s National Bowel Screening Programme offers a free test every two years for people aged 60 to 74. It is a simple at-home kit that checks for hidden blood, an early sign of bowel cancer. Catching it early makes treatment far more effective.
Breast and cervical screening
Women should continue breast screening through BreastScreen Aotearoa until age 69, and cervical screening remains important too, especially if results have not always been clear in the past. Talk to your doctor about what schedule suits you.
Bone density scans
Osteoporosis often goes unnoticed until a fracture occurs. A bone density scan, particularly for women after menopause and men over 70, can reveal weakening bones early enough to act on.
Eye and hearing tests
Vision and hearing naturally decline with age, but regular optometrist and audiology checks can catch glaucoma, cataracts, or hearing loss before they seriously affect daily life and safety, including driving.
Diabetes screening
A simple blood test can detect type 2 diabetes or prediabetes early, allowing lifestyle changes or treatment to begin sooner rather than later.
Cognitive and mental health checks
Memory and mood assessments are not just for those showing obvious signs of concern. Discussing any changes with your GP, even subtle ones, helps with early support and planning.
Staying on top of these screening tests for seniors does not need to be overwhelming. Speak with your GP about which checks apply to you and how often you should have them. A little time spent now can make a real difference to your independence and wellbeing in the years ahead.
