Senior citizens need to take special medical preventative care measures to ensure that they are able to live long, healthy lives. Our doctors in Lawrenceville, Ga., encourage seniors to take the following preventative care steps.

Regular Vaccinations

As we age, our immune system becomes more vulnerable, leaving us more susceptible to complications from diseases. It is crucial that senior citizens get vaccinated against the flu every year. We often give seniors a high-dose shot, which promotes a stronger immune response, but this shot is not always the best option for every senior. Come in to our Lawrenceville family practice and discuss your options before you get your flu shot.

Because pneumonia is also a high-risk disease for seniors, we encourage you to consider getting immunized against this disease as well. Pneumonia vaccines require far less frequency than flu shots, so talk to us about your history of vaccination before pursuing this vaccine.

Annual Screenings for Diabetes and High Cholesterol

One in four senior citizens has Type 2 diabetes, but many do not know that they have this common disease because they have not been tested. During your annual exam with your Lawrenceville doctor, get tested for diabetes, high cholesterol and any other blood-related concerns you or your doctor may have. Being aware of your health can help you and your doctor to work together to ensure that you will be healthy for a long time to come.

Breast Cancer Screening

Women age 50 and older are at the highest risk for developing breast cancer out of any demographic. Our Gwinnett physicians recommend that women 50 and older have regular breast cancer screenings every two years. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, you may need to have more frequent screenings.

Bone Density Scan

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that leeches minerals from your bones, making them more vulnerable to fracturing. Bone density scans estimate the mass of your bone to determine if you are losing mineral density. Medications can help to strengthen your bone mass and reduce your risk of fracture, but you have to know that you need to take them.

Regular Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is the third-most common type of non-skin cancer in men and women, and it typically affects individuals over age 50. Starting at 50, we recommend that our patients undergo regular colorectal cancer screenings. There are several different methods that are commonly used to screen for this cancer, and we encourage you to talk to your Gwinnett doctor about any concerns you may have. Colorectal cancer screening is crucial as it can catch this deadly disease before it has a chance to become dangerous.