23 Wongala Crescent, Beecroft 2119 NSW
Tel: 02-72550725
Women (Age 50 - 74)
Now that you have reached your 50s, there are a few more screening tests to help with early detection and prevention of health conditions that are more common at this age. Discuss with your GP about what exactly you need.
Menopause
Menopause is your final period. You know you have reached menopause if you have not had a period for 12 months. The average age is 51 years, and every woman is affected in some way. If you are suffering from hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, weight gain, sleep issues, dry vagina or reduced sex drive, speak to your GP who can assist.
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Breast Health (Mammogram)
Have a screening mammogram (breast X-ray) every two years between the ages of 50 and 74 years. Regular self-breast check is still as important. If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, your doctor will advise how often you need to be screened.
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Heart & Diabetes Check
Routine blood pressure and cholesterol check are encouraged at least every 2 years from age 45 (age 35 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women). Your GP may also discuss family history, lifestyle, smoking, alcohol and weight, which may show the risks for heart disease.
A blood test to check your blood glucose level is recommended every 3 years. You might need it more frequently if you are in the high-risk group for developing diabetes. Speak to your GP about how often you should be tested.
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Bone Health
66% of people 50 years and older have osteoporosis or osteopenia. This is a chronic disease that makes your bones more likely to break from minor injuries. Many people do not know they have osteoporosis until they have a broken bone. If you are 50 years and older with menopause, you should have an annual osteoporosis risk assessment and your GP might organise a bone mineral density test to check the strength and density of your bones. Being a female itself is a risk factor!
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Oral Health
On average, 55 to 74-year-olds have 19 decayed, missing or filled teeth. In addition, gum disease (periodontitis), dry mouth (xerostomia) and oral cancers are commonly experienced by older people. Poor oral health has a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, overall health and well-being. Therefore, do not forget to visit your dentist.
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Hearing
You may need a hearing test if you think there might be problems. If you’re not sure whether you're suffering from hearing loss, you can do an online test. This is a guide only - if you have any doubt, see your GP or an audiologist.
Mental Health Check
Older people may have mental health issues due to illness, loss of independence, grief and loss, financial stress, change in living arrangements and increasing social isolation. The signs of depression in older people are different from those seen in younger adults and children. Speaking to your GP is a good first step - if necessary, they can refer you to support services that best suit your needs.
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Libido and Sexual Concerns
Every woman has her own "normal" levels of libido based on their own experiences and biological drive. When a woman has a low libido or sexual desire and is bothered by the lack of interest in sex, she may have a condition called Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD).
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Speak to your GP to further discuss your concerns.
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Decrease Sexual Desire Screener
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Learn More
Bowel Cancer Screening
You will be sent a free, simple test through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. This tests for blood in your poo, which may be a sign of bowel cancer. It is recommended to have this test done every two years.
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Cervical Screening
Every five years from age 25 to 70-74. If you started having sex after age 25,
screening starts two years after you were first sexually active.
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Eye Check
As with other parts of your body, your eyes undergo changes too. Some of the common eye conditions in older people include cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, dry eye and diabetic retinopathy. It is important to have your eyes checked by an optometrist every one to two years.
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Skin Check
Perform regular self-checks, looking for new/changed spots. Speak to your GP if you notice anything suspicious. If you are at high risk of skin cancer, full skin examinations are recommended every 6 months.
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Immunisation
The National Immunisation Program schedule provides free vaccinations for 65 years and older: influenza, pneumococcal and shingles. You may need booster doses of some other vaccines to maintain high levels of protection. Speak to your GP to discuss what is recommended.
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