Many seniors mistakenly believe that their primary care provider (PCP) is only there for them when they’re sick. However, regular primary care visits, even when you feel fine, are vital to stay on top of your health proactively.
Many conditions that put your health at risk do not show obvious symptoms for a while, and can go unnoticed without routine check-ins. In this article, you’ll learn why older adults should visit their PCP for wellness visits and checkups to stay healthy, independent, and confident.
The Role of Wellness Checks and Health Screenings
Wellness checks and health screenings can help catch problems early, before they worsen. For example, many severe conditions, such as changes in blood pressure, blood sugar, thyroid levels, heart rhythms, or medication side effects, go unnoticed without routine check-ins.
Catching problems sooner leads to better health outcomes, helping you live a happier, longer life. For older adults, especially, routine wellness checks can help maintain quality of life and independence. Finding a provider you like and building a relationship with them helps you stay on top of scheduling, so that you can attend your wellness checks and health screenings regularly.
How Doctor Checkups Build a Relationship
Routine wellness visits with the same provider help to build a relationship with someone you trust. Not only will you form a level of trust and an ongoing relationship, but wellness visits help your PCP recognize a “baseline” as what’s normal for you. They’ll get to know you as a person, beyond your symptoms and conditions. This established baseline from regular check-ins will help them spot changes in your health that you may not notice.
Components of a Wellness Checkup
Wellness checkups are regularly scheduled visits in which your doctor reviews various aspects of your health to assess your organ systems. Some things to expect at wellness checkups include:
- Review of medical history and vaccination records
- Vital signs and physical exam
- Preventive screenings and routine lab work
- Review of medications and supplements you’re taking
- Mental health and memory screenings
- Time to discuss concerns and ask questions with your provider
- Review of sleep, stress, and activities of daily life
- Possible hearing, balance, and vision testing (also essential to catch in early stages)
Attending regular PCP visits for health screenings isn’t about being sick—it’s about staying healthy, independent, and confident in your care. At JenCare Senior Medical Center, we see our patients frequently, at least once per month. Why? Because this is how we help you live a healthier life, outside of the hospital.
Take a Tour and Find a PCP for Wellness Visits
Start building a strong relationship with a primary care provider to support your long-term health and to build trust with them. Take a virtual tour to see what our centers are like and meet a care team that’s ready to partner with you.
We can’t wait to meet you! Find a location near you and take the next step toward better health. Book an appointment with a JenCare Senior Medical Center provider to get a helping hand with your preventive health through regularly scheduled wellness exams.
