As women age, the risk for certain chronic diseases increases, making regular wellness exams critical for older women. Medicare covers annual preventive care with no co-pay, but many women face barriers to prioritizing their health due to competing demands like work and caregiving responsibilities.
Women with Medicare experience higher rates of health conditions like urinary incontinence, depression, osteoporosis, and pulmonary disease compared to men. They are also more likely to live alone, increasing the risk of loneliness and social isolation.
Wellness exams for older women include tracking various behavioral and physical markers, cognitive screening, and discussions about living situations and advance care planning. These exams can help uncover hidden issues and create care plans to manage chronic conditions.
Medicare Part B covers preventive services like mammograms, bone density tests, and screenings for depression and cardiovascular disease. However, navigating Medicare benefits can be complex, so ongoing dialogue with healthcare providers is essential for maintaining health as priorities and needs change with age.
By providing women with clear information about their Medicare benefits and support to access preventive care, healthcare providers can help women stay healthy well into older age. Prioritizing regular wellness exams can make managing the health challenges of aging easier and improve overall quality of life for older women.
