Wellness exams for older adults
A yearly wellness visit is one of the best tools for catching changes early. It can include:
Physical health
Blood pressure, heart and lungs, skin, vision and hearing.
Memory and thinking
Screening for changes in memory, attention and problem-solving.
Mood
Screening for depression, anxiety, isolation and stress.
Balance and fall risk
Gait, balance, strength and the things that raise the chance of a fall.
Chronic conditions
A check on diabetes, blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, thyroid and lung conditions.
Medication review
Making sure every prescription is still needed, safe and working together.
Medication reviews
Many older adults take several medications, and the body handles them differently with age. That raises the risk of interactions, side effects, duplicate prescriptions, dizziness and confusion. Your provider reviews everything you take, including supplements, and simplifies when possible.
Fall prevention
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults, and many fall risks can be found ahead of time. A fall-risk check looks at balance and walking, strength, medications that cause dizziness and safety at home, and can lead to physical therapy or a mobility aid when it would help. If a fall does happen, X-ray in the office can help sort out an injury quickly.
Memory concerns
If you or your family notice changes in memory, behavior or personality, bring it up. Screening can identify problems early, and your provider can work with you and your family on next steps and referrals.
Chronic conditions and prevention
Ongoing care for diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, COPD, thyroid disease and high cholesterol is a large part of senior care. See chronic disease management for how that care works. Prevention for older adults includes:
- Vaccines: flu, pneumonia, shingles, tetanus and COVID-19 as recommended
- Lab work drawn in the office
- Cancer screening guidance and referrals when appropriate
- Bone density testing when it is due
- Vision and hearing checks
Support for families and caregivers
Family members are often part of an older adult's care. With the patient's permission, your provider can explain diagnoses and plans, help with caregiving questions and coordinate with specialists.
Schedule a wellness visit for yourself or a parent.
Call (307) 778-3121Frequently asked questions
Can a family member come to the appointment?
Yes. Many patients bring a spouse, adult child or caregiver. It helps everyone stay on the same page.
Should I bring my medications?
Yes. Bring every medication and supplement you take, or a complete list with doses, so your provider can review them together.
Do you take Medicare?
Coverage depends on your plan. Call the office with your insurance card and the front desk will check your coverage before your visit.