While we are all strong and healthy in our thirties and forties, once you reach the ripe age of 50, you do need to consider your health. Even if you are active and in good health, here are a few aspects of your general health you should be monitoring.

  • Blood Pressure Evaluation – Your blood pressure is an indicator of potential issues, and stress can cause high blood pressure, so do have your BP checked at least twice a year, which only takes a few minutes.
  • Cholesterol Screening – A simple blood test can reveal if you have any cholesterol issues, and high levels of cholesterol might not show any symptoms, which is one reason to have your levels checked.
  • Blood Glucose Screening – Diabetes is common in adults of all ages, with more than one million sufferers in Australia, and you can have this test at any of the Blooms The Chemist It only takes a few minutes and you are given a printout and should there be any issues, you can visit your GP.
  • Iron Testing – Low iron levels causes fatigue, due to an inadequate amount of oxygen in the red blood cells, and the test involves a prick on the thumb and the blood is applied to the test strip. If your iron levels are low, you can take an iron tablet daily, which will ensure adequate oxygen is flowing through your veins.
  • Stroke Risk Assessment – As we get older, the chances of suffering a stroke increase, and with a quick stroke risk assessment, you can be aware of any potential blood clot issues. The test involves taking a little blood and answering a few questions about family history and lifestyle will enable the healthcare professional to assess the risk of experiencing a stroke.

You can have all the above checks in any major chemist and the cost is very reasonable, and twice a year is ideal, as this will reveal any minor issues before they get a chance to become major. Here are a few tips on maintaining optimum health & well-being for the over-50s.

  • Quit smoking.
  • Limit alcohol consumption.
  • Have a balanced diet that includes organic fruit and vegetables.
  • Take daily exercise.
  • Have regular medical check-ups.

In order for you to remain healthy, you need to focus on diet, exercise and mental well-being, and many semi-retired people take up yoga and meditation, which are known to promote physical and mental well-being.