5. Bone Density Scans
Bone density scans (DEXA scans) are important tools for diagnosing osteoporosis. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends them for women 65 and older and men 70 and older. However, repeating them too often doesn’t always add value.
Research shows that for people with stable bone health, repeating a DEXA scan every 2–5 years is usually sufficient. Testing more frequently rarely changes treatment decisions.
Ruth, 75, had her first scan at 67 and a follow-up at 72. Her numbers barely changed. Her doctor reassured her: “You’re stable. Let’s check again at 77 instead of rushing.” She left relieved, saying, “It’s nice not to feel like I’m on a treadmill of tests.”
Note These
Aging wisely doesn’t mean skipping care, it means choosing it carefully. Health after 70 is about balance. The goal is to catch serious problems early without causing new ones through unnecessary or risky tests.
Trusted organizations like the USPSTF, Mayo Clinic, American Cancer Society, and CDC all stress that medical care should be individualized. What makes sense for one person might not for another.
If you’re over 50, now is the perfect time to start asking questions. Talk with your doctor about which tests still make sense for you and which you can safely step away from. You may find that fewer tests mean less stress, fewer bills, and more freedom to focus on what really matters: staying active, enjoying your loved ones, and living well.
References
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U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2021). Colorectal Cancer: Screening. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/colorectal-cancer-screening
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American Cancer Society. (2020). Colorectal Cancer Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging.html
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American College of Physicians. (2014). Screening Pelvic Examination in Adult Women. Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023). Pap Smear and Pelvic Exam Guidelines. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/pap-smear/about/pac-20394841
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American Heart Association. (2019). Cardiac CT Angiography. https://www.heart.org
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Choosing Wisely / ABIM Foundation. (2023). Commonly Overused Tests and Treatments. https://www.choosingwisely.org
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National Osteoporosis Foundation. (2022). Bone Density Testing. https://www.nof.org/patients/diagnosis-information/bone-density-examtesting/
