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Ages and Stages: 65+

Age 65 and older: Screening and Immunization Guidelines

Well Woman Checkup

Every year — including weight, height.
This checkup also includes:

  • Blood Pressure - every 2 years if normal (<120/80)
  • Blood Pressure - every year or more often if higher than 120/80
  • Diabetes Blood Glucose - if your blood pressure is > 135/80 or if you take blood pressure medication
  • Cholesterol test - get regular testing if you are at risk for heart disease

Pelvic Exam

Yearly

  • Pap test screen for cancer - Ask your Provider if you need to be screened.
  • Chlamydia and Gonorrhea - get tested if you are sexually active and at increased risk (new or multiple partners).
  • Syphilis- get tested if you are at increased risk □ Clinical breast exam- every year • Breast Self-Exam- be familiar with how your breasts look and feel so you can identify any changes and discuss with your provider.
  • HIV screening - all women should be offered a 1-time screening. Follow up testing should be done based on individual risk. Discuss your risk with your Provider.
  • Bone Mineral Density Test (DEXA Scan) - Age 65 or older- get this test at least once, then as needed per your Provider

Mammogram

  • Every 2 years through age 74- Age 75+ discuss with your Provider if you need to be screened

Colorectal Screening

  • Get screened through age 75. Three different tests are available. Discuss with your Provider which test is best for you and how often you need screening.

Lung Cancer Screening

  • For women between 55 and 74 who smoked one pack/day for 30 years or more, or two packs/day for 15 years or have quit smoking these amounts less than 15 years ago.

Recommended Immunizations

  • Seasonal Flu Vaccine - every year
  • Diphtheria/Tetanus – single vaccination
  • Varicella Zoster Vaccine (for Shingles) - single vaccination
  • Pneumococcal Vaccine (for Pneumonia)- Age 65 and over - single vaccination

These are guidelines only. Your health care provider will personalize the timing and frequency of screening tests for you based on your personal health factors.

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