top priority.

The adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure'', is old advice, but it takes on new meaning when you think about your own personal health. The compromise on your health is detrimental.

In general, an annual physical is of paramount importance by age 50. Apart from the general assessment of our overall health, the annual physical provides an opportunity for the doctor to offer counselling on a variety of subjects such as nutrition, proper use of multiple prescription drugs, prevention of falls, foot care, urinary incontinuence as well as advice on safe driving.

In North America, geriatricians examined the subject of routine health screening for older adults, and agreed on most major guidelines for physical exams. It should include the following tests or procedures.

- blood pressure - colon cancer blood test - breast or mammogram annually for women 40 years & over - hearing test - vision test - influenza vaccine The goal of health care providers should be to provide health prevention and promotion. Even if the older adult has no health problems currently, he or she may discuss their individual health needs with the doctor during the check-up.

If at any time there are some problems such as sudden periods of confusion, change or difficulty with the general upkeep of the home, the doctor can make an assessment, as it is extremely important to determine the cause. A good geriatric assessment can help direct the older adult to the resources available, e.g. education classes, health screening, counselling and preventive services. This would enable him to remain independent for as long as possible.

CORITA SAUNDERS, RN, MA.

Coordinator Seniors & Disabled Department of Health