Guidelines for seniors (65+ years)

Annual physical exams (65+ years) 

Schedule a physical examination with your primary care provider (PCP) every year. When you go to your physical exam: 

• Your PCP will ask you questions about your medical history and your family’s medical history, because you may be at risk for a disease if someone in your family has it.
• Your PCP will check your height and weight, measure your body mass index, take your blood pressure and perform other tests.
• Your PCP may order lab tests to check your cholesterol level or blood sugar.

The exams and tests you receive will depend on your age and whether you are male or female.

Flu shots (65+ years)

The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for all adults.
 

Diabetes care (65+ years)

Nearly 20% of all deaths in people over 25 are associated with complications from diabetes. But many of these complications can be prevented with early detection. If you have diabetes, be sure to have the following tests:

• Glycosylated hemoglobin blood test once per year
• Dilated eye exam to screen for diabetic eye disease once per year
• A foot exam at each visit to your doctor
• Screening or treatment for kidney disease

If you haven’t had these tests yet this year, contact your healthcare provider or call Geisinger Health Plan’s Care Coordination Department at 800-883-6355.

Work with your provider to lower your blood sugar and maintain a blood pressure of less than 140/90.