10 Things To Check to Ensure Healthy Ageing at Home

 

10 Things To Check to Ensure Healthy Ageing at Home

Because staying well means staying one step ahead.

Ageing at home is a growing trend — and a deeply personal choice. It's familiar, comforting, and filled with memories. But staying healthy at home takes more than just a safe environment; it also means paying close attention to our bodies and minds as they change with time.

Many health issues in older adults don’t come with loud alarms — they creep in quietly. That’s why regular health checks are so important. They give us the chance to catch problems early, manage chronic conditions better, and enjoy a better quality of life.

Here are the key health checks every older adult should consider regularly to ensure healthy ageing at home:

 

1. Blood Pressure Checks

Why it matters: High blood pressure often has no symptoms but increases your risk of stroke, heart attack, kidney disease, and dementia.

What to do: Check your blood pressure at least once every 6 months, or more frequently if you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension. A home blood pressure monitor is a great investment — easy to use and helpful for spotting trends.

 

2. Blood Sugar (Glucose) Monitoring

Why it matters: Diabetes is common among older adults and can silently damage nerves, eyes, kidneys, and the heart if unmanaged.

What to do: Do a fasting blood sugar test annually — or more if you’re already diabetic or prediabetic. Ask your doctor about your HbA1c levels too, which gives a better long-term picture.

 

3. Vision and Eye Health

Why it matters: Diminished vision increases fall risk, affects reading and independence, and could signal more serious conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration.

What to do: Get a full eye check once a year. Even if you think your glasses are fine, some changes are subtle and best caught early.

 

4. Hearing Tests

Why it matters: Hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression, and even cognitive decline. Many older adults wait too long to seek help.

What to do: Get your hearing checked every 1-2 years. If people keep telling you you’re turning the TV too loud — take it as a cue!

 

5. Bone Density Scan (DEXA)

Why it matters: Osteoporosis is known as a “silent disease” until a fracture happens. A simple fall can lead to a broken hip, which affects mobility and independence.

What to do: Women over 65 and men over 70 should have a bone density scan. If you're at high risk (family history, underweight, or long-term steroid use), consider checking earlier.

 

6. Cholesterol and Heart Health Screening

Why it matters: High cholesterol increases risk of heart disease — and you won’t feel it creeping up.

What to do: A simple blood test every 1-3 years is enough. If you’re on medication or have risk factors like family history or diabetes, do it more regularly.

 

7. Cognitive Function Screening

Why it matters: Memory lapses can be normal with age — but consistent forgetfulness, confusion, or changes in language or judgment may indicate dementia or other cognitive conditions.

What to do: Early screening tools like the MMSE or MoCA can help detect changes. Don’t wait until there’s a crisis — speak to your doctor if you or your loved ones notice changes.

 

8. Dental and Oral Health Checks

Why it matters: Oral health affects more than just your smile — it's tied to heart disease, diabetes, and even pneumonia.

What to do: Visit your dentist at least once a year. Dry mouth, gum disease, or loose dentures can cause issues with eating and nutrition.

 

9. Cancer Screenings (Depending on Age & Risk)

Why it matters: Early detection saves lives. Screening recommendations change with age and personal risk.

What to do: Ask your doctor about relevant checks — like colonoscopy, prostate exams, breast exams, or Pap smears — based on your age and health history.

 

10. Functional and Mobility Assessment

Why it matters: Your ability to move safely — climb stairs, get in and out of a chair, walk without unsteadiness — is key to staying independent at home.

What to do: A physiotherapist or geriatric doctor can assess your balance, strength, and gait. Early intervention can prevent falls.

 

A Proactive Approach to Ageing Well

Ageing doesn’t mean waiting for problems to appear. Healthy ageing is about staying one step ahead. Regular health checks help us stay in control — not just of illness, but of our choices, our lifestyle, and our future.

These checks aren’t just about numbers or charts — they’re about peace of mind. They help you continue doing what you love, living where you love, and enjoying the people you love.

Growing older at home isn’t just a hope — it’s a plan. And a good plan starts with good habits.