Women’s Health 50s and Older

may be suffering from stress with their body being much less resilient than it had been in the past and effects of menopause. There are certain lifestyle changes, including new medical tests that women who are in their 50s should begin planning for to keep their body in optimal health.

Mindful Changes in Lifestyle

Not only is it important to maintain bodily health but mental health as well. At an age where stress may be playing a large role in their life, it is important to find a calmness. Women should get a lot of sleep. Sleep allows the body to recover and revitalize itself. Also, studies have shown that women who set aside quiet time or meditation time every morning felt less stress in their lives. Just as it had been important at age 30 and 40, consistent aerobic exercise is necessary to build and maintain strong bones. Keeping active lowers blood pressure and reduces risks of heart disease, as it is the number one cause of death in women (Women Over 50: Your Personal Checklist, n.d.).

Medical Tests for your 50s

At age 50, health should be a number one concern. Every woman over 50 should schedule annual physicals to maintain awareness of their body’s condition. Make sure your doctor performs or recommends the following tests as it may save your health later on:

• Colonoscopy Screening: This test will allow the doctor to inspect the inner lining of the large intestine. Using a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope, they will be able to determine health conditions like ulcers, colon polyps, tumors, and areas of inflammation or bleeding.
• Weight Calculation: Women will often begin to gain weight as they grow older, so it is important to continue to eat healthy and exercise to avoid developing health diseases related to weight gain.
• Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can kill the heart, brain, eyes, and kidneys. Hypertension is a dangerous risk that can be avoided with a simple blood pressure test.
• Cholesterol Profile: Women should be tested for their cholesterol at least every five years, and more often if it runs in the family.
• Blood Sugar: Developing diabetes can destroy health through heart disease, kidney failure, and blindness. Diabetes tests should be taken at least every three years.
• Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear: Women should receive a pap test and human papillomavirus test to extend the interval between cervical cancer screenings to five years.
• Breast Exam and Mammogram: Every woman should receive a mammogram and have a doctor examine the changes in the breasts. This can help with early detection of breast cancer.
• Looking for Moles: To catch developing skin cancer earlier on, check for unusual spots or moles on the body. A doctor should check the skin once a year (Important Middle Age Medical Tests – WebMD, n.d.).

A woman’s 50th birthday should not be a depressing milestone; instead it should be viewed as a new beginning of self-realization and reflection on the life she has lived up to now. The latter half of life can be just as enjoyable as the former as long as women are proactive with keeping their bodies healthy and strong. Located in Glendale, California, the physicians at Avalon Surgery Center will provide excellent healthcare for women who hope to continue moving forward past their 50s. Call 888-8-AVALON to make an appointment today to ensure a healthier life.