The Change You Didn’t See Coming

Change happens, often when we least expect it.

No one loves doctor visits. If you have been fortunate enough to enjoy good health all your life, you may not be thinking about regular doctor’s visits and health screenings once you hit 50. 

But as we transition into our 50’s and beyond, our body undergoes some changes including menopause, increased risk of certain health conditions, changes in metabolism and muscle mass, and potential shift in bone density and fat distribution.

Physical changes include:

·      Slower metabolism, making it easier to gain weight, especially around the midsection

·      Muscle loss, which can lead to decreased strength and endurance

·      Decreased bone density increasing the risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis

·      Skin may become thinner and drier, wrinkles and fine lines become more noticeable.

·      Hair may start to thin and turn gray.

·      Fat may shift towards the abdomen, even in post-menopausal women.

·      Menopause, during which estrogen levels drop dramatically, causing a variety of unpleasant symptoms.

Health risks include:

·      Risk of heart disease increases, including high blood pressure.

·      Risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes increases.

·      Women are at a higher risk for thyroid problems, which can cause weight gain, depression, and fatigue.

·      Some women experience overactive bladder.

·      Risk of pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs) increases

So, now you are thinking “Petra, why are you telling me all of this depressing stuff?”, and I get it!  But stuff happens, often when we least expect it. Case in point: I recently had a bone density test as part of my annual checkup, and I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. Say what???

I never considered myself a candidate for this condition, because I did all the right things: excellent diet, physically active, regular exercise including weight-bearing, non-smoker, not overweight. Since I was already doing everything recommended to maintain good bone density, my doctor recommended medical treatment. I had not seen that coming.

So, here is a list of regular health screenings for women age 50+:

·      Mammograms (annually for women ages 45-50, every 1-2 years for women 55+)

·      Colorectal cancer screenings (colonoscopy every 10 years or more often if recommended)

·      Cervical cancer screenings (Pap test every 3 years, HPV test every 5 years)

·      Diabetes screening

·      Blood pressure screening

·      Cholesterol screening

·      Lung cancer screening if you are/were a smoker

·      Vaccinations: stay up to date including flu, shingles, and any other recommended vaccines

·      Well-woman exam, annually with your gynecologist, including pelvic exam.

·      Skin check with a dermatologist.

I know, I know, it’s a long list. However, health-literacy empowers us to make informed decisions, advocate for our needs, and improve our wellbeing. We may not be able to prevent many of the changes that come with aging, but we can use the resources available to us to make it as painless as possible, and I’m here for it!

Sources: MedlinePlus.gov, American Cancer Society, usda.gov