Annual Exams for Seniors
Annual exams are vitally
important for older adults, whether it's an annual physical or annual wellness
visit. A lot can change in your health over the course of one year, and these
exams allow a provider to monitor your health.
Annual physicals ensure
that you are up-to-date with your vaccines which help to protect against
various diseases. Completing the various recommended immunizations protects not
only you but the community as well.
What's included in an Annual Physical?
The actual physical examination
typically includes:
- Reviewing
family health history
- Reviewing
patients personal health and immunization history
- Examining
the Ear, Nose and Throat
- Vision
testing
- Height
and Weight measurements
- Listening
to heart and lungs
- Pulse
and Blood Pressure checks
- Checking
for abnormalities by examining parts of the body
- Observing
range of motion, joint flexibility, spinal alignment and posture
- Testing
motor skills, reflexes, coordination and strength
- Hernia check
Annual Wellness Visits
This FREE visit is paid entirely by
Medicare. During
your Annual Wellness Visit, you and your physician will develop a plan for your
health and wellness across the next year. We will review all of your medical
conditions, medications and discuss any gaps in information. In addition, we
will discuss medical conditions you may need to watch out for and how you can
help to prevent them. Although we may give you some preventative care like a
flu shot, you will not be given an actual physical exam. Preventative care can
help improve your quality of life and keep you independent longer.
Vaccines for Seniors
We recommend certain vaccines for adults in order to help
prevent getting and spreading diseases. Vaccines are especially important for
those with chronic conditions. Speak to your physician or provider about your
specific needs. We will begin scheduling Flu and Pneumonia Vaccine appointments
this fall, be sure to mark your calendars with a reminder. These health tips are not a
substitute for speaking to a qualified health-care provider, talk to your
primary care physician or specialist today. Stay protected. Stay Healthy.
Patients Matter Always!
