Health concerns for women in their 50s and beyond

More than ever, women at this age need to prioritize their health to help prevent illnesses as they reach their 50s and beyond. Women may experience menopause, which affects hormone levels, and at this age range it is also common to see weight gain in the midsection.

To help keep physically healthy, incorporating low-impact exercises like yoga, aerobics and weight training in a workout routine will help control weight. Another benefit of weight training is that it can help increase muscle mass and bone density.

As women (and men) grow older, bone density decreases, making it important to meet with a primary care doctor to schedule a bone density test and help prevent osteoporosis.

Growing older also leads to changes in sleep patterns. Women in their 50s and beyond should get at least seven hours of sleep each night and note any signs of disturbed sleep with their doctor.

An easy way for women to keep their mind sharp and healthy is to engage in puzzles and other brain stimulating activities, as well as participating in social activities to help ward off depression and other mental health conditions.

By age 50, women should speak with their doctor about preventative health screenings, such as:

Age appropriate vaccinations
Bone density
Blood sugar
Colonoscopy
Mammogram
Vision and hearing tests

No matter the woman’s age, it is vital they make their health a priority to live a long, healthy and happy life. Staying active and eating healthy are lifestyle habits any woman can begin at any stage in life.

At Loyola Medicine, we believe the most important thing for any woman to do is to meet with their primary care doctor annually to ask questions, bring up any health concerns and complete any recommended preventative health screenings.

Shilpa Desai, DO, is an internal medicine physician at Loyola Medicine. Her clinical interests include a focus on women’s health and preventive care.

Dr. Desai earned her medical degree at Ohio University. She completed an internship and residency at Summa Akron City Hospital and a fellowship at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson Program.