No matter what stage of life you're in, self-care should be a priority. Here are some recommendations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services regarding health screenings for women ages 20 to 90.
20-29 years of age
This is the time to focus on your reproductive health, even if you’re not yet ready to start a family. Talk to your physician about your birth control options. For women with low to average risk, a Pap test is recommended every three years to test for pre-cancerous or cancerous cells. Sun protection is another key area: According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in young adults.
30-39 years of age
Continue family planning discussions, whether you’re trying for a baby or not. Also monitor blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol. Continue with Pap tests every three years, or as recommended by your doctor.
40-49 years of age
Symptoms of perimenopause may happen in your 40s. Depending on family history, you may begin to start scheduling annual mammograms. For those with average risk, ACS recommends a colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 45.
50-59 years of age
If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause, talk with the doctor — he or she can help determine a strategy to minimize them. If you are or were a smoker or you’re 55 or older, a lung screening might be appropriate. Continue with a colonoscopy based on your doctor’s recommendations.
60-69 years of age
Take stock of your overall health! Have a candid conversation about weight, height, diet and level of physical activity. A bone density scan is an important screening for osteoporosis. If you had chickenpox as a child, ask if the shingles vaccine is appropriate. Finally, consider who will make health care decisions if you’re unable to, and take steps to have those decisions made legally binding.
70-79 years of age
Staying healthy in your 70s means staying vigilant about diet and physical activity. If you’re unable to advocate for yourself, it’s vital to have a medical directive in place to carry out your health wishes.
In your 80s, 90s and beyond
Continue talking with your healthcare provider about height, weight, diet, physical activity and tobacco or alcohol use. Ask if low-impact exercise like walking or chair yoga is right for you.* Take note of your moods, and talk to your doctor about any concerns. And of course, having a medical directive in place will ensure your wishes are carried out.
*Consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.
Five things to consider at every age
- Your insurance may cover an annual preventive care or wellness visit.
- At your first visit with a new provider, bring notes and questions about family health history, especially any cancers.
- Talk to your doctor about weight, diet, blood pressure and physical activity.
- Be truthful about tobacco and alcohol use — your physician is there to coach you, not judge you.
- Bring up concerns about anxiety, depression or other mental health issues, or violence in your life — even if you're fearful to do so, conversations with your provider are confidential.