Health screening is one of those quiet, sensible habits that is easy to let slide, yet keeping up with a few simple checks is a positive thing you can do for yourself. It is worth thinking about which checks are worth staying on top of after 60, and having a friendly chat with your GP about them.
What screening actually means
Screening simply means checking for early signs of a health issue before you notice any symptoms yourself. Australia runs several national screening programmes relevant to older adults, and they are free or low cost. These include bowel screening, breast screening and cervical screening, and your GP can also arrange regular skin checks and other tests suited to your circumstances. The idea is not to go looking for trouble, but to keep a gentle eye on your health so that anything worth attention can be picked up early.
What it costs
For most people, taking part costs little or nothing. The bowel screening kit is posted to your home free of charge, and breast screening through BreastScreen Australia is free. Cervical screening attracts a Medicare rebate, so there is usually no cost if your practice bulk bills, though some practices charge a gap fee. It is always worth asking the practice about any out-of-pocket cost when you book, so there are no surprises.
Why keeping up with checks is worthwhile
The value of screening is that it is associated with earlier detection, and research suggests that when something is found earlier, it is often more straightforward to manage. That is a reassuring reason to take part rather than a cause for worry. Most people who complete a screening test receive a clear result and simply carry on as usual, with the peace of mind of knowing they are up to date. Think of it as routine maintenance for your health, much like a regular service keeps a car running smoothly.
What to expect
Not knowing what is involved can put people off, so it helps to know that most screening is quick and low-key. Bowel screening, for example, is a simple test you can do at home in private and post away. Breast and cervical screening are done at a clinic and take only a short time. Your GP or the clinic staff will explain each step, and you are always free to ask questions or mention any concerns beforehand. There is no need to feel anxious about the unknown; the process is designed to be as easy and comfortable as possible.
Finding out what you are due for
Each programme has its own eligible ages and its own interval between tests, so it can be hard to keep track of which checks apply to you and when. The easiest approach is to ask your GP, who can look at your age, history and circumstances and let you know which programmes you are currently eligible for. You may also receive invitations in the post from the national screening programmes when you are due. If you are unsure whether you are up to date, there is no harm in asking; the practice staff can usually check for you.
Make it a yearly conversation
Perhaps the most useful habit of all is to have one unhurried conversation with your GP each year about which checks are right for you. Everyone's situation is a little different, and what suits one person may not suit another, so a personal chat is far more helpful than a general rule. Booking an annual check-in, perhaps around your birthday so it is easy to remember, keeps everything in one place and means nothing quietly slips through the cracks.
Staying on top of a few simple checks is a small, calm way of looking after your future self. If it has been a while, consider making an appointment to talk it through with your GP, and let them help you plan which checks are worth keeping up with.
Important Note
Important: This content is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition. Always consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine, starting a new exercise programme, taking supplements, or trying any new therapy or device, particularly if you have an existing medical condition or are taking prescribed medication. The information presented here is based on generally available research and is not a substitute for professional medical guidance. Individual results vary. Aged Wellness Australia is a referral and information service and does not provide medical or clinical services.