According to health experts, women over 65 should make self-checking a regular fixture in their routine. Things they can check at home include:
SKIN: Monitor freckles, moles and skin blemishes for changes in size, shape or colour or anything unusual such as pain or itch. See your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
Women at high risk of skin cancer need regular examination by their doctor or dermatologist.
DENTAL CARE: You can reduce your risk of tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss if you clean your teeth regularly, drink fluoridated water, eat a low-sugar diet, and visit the dentist at least once a year.
DIET: You can improve your general health by eating a variety of nutritious healthy foods, and having regular meals and a healthy eating plan.
WEIGHT: Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis.
ALCOHOL: ‘Low risk’ drinking is defined as no more than two standard drinks (for example, 100 ml of wine) on any day and at least two alcohol-free days per week.
SMOKING: Increases your risk of many diseases including heart disease, stroke, lung disease and osteoporosis (loss of bone strength). If you smoke, try to quit. There is no safe smoking level.
EXERCISE: Regular exercise can prevent diseases developing, as well as being good for your emotional health. At least 2.5 hours of exercise per week is recommended.
MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH: If you are experiencing symptoms such as intense sadness, irritability, fatigue, anxiety, or have had changes to your eating or sleeping habits, see your doctor to discuss these symptoms.
OF NOTE: Intimate partner violence is one of the biggest impacts on women’s health. If you are experiencing family violence and don’t have someone to talk to, call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
Source: www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au.
