What Healthy Older Adults Talk About at Their Annual Physical

You know the routine when you go for your annual physical: Your primary care doctor checks your blood pressure, listens to your heart and lungs, and asks if anything has changed since your last visit.  

But people who age well often use their annual physical for more than a review of the basics. They come prepared with questions and concerns about their mobility, hearing, memory, preventive care, and other factors that can have a big impact on their health in the years ahead. These concerns may seem minor and easy to dismiss, but mentioning them during an annual physical—or anytime you have a question about your health—gives your physician a chance to identify a potential issue and recommend ways to manage it.  

Below, a closer look at the topics healthy agers make a point to discuss with their doctor.

Mobility

Regular physical activity is vital at every age, but many adults notice that daily movements, such as climbing the stairs, carrying groceries, or getting up from a chair, become challenging over time.  

"One of the most significant things older adults can tell their doctor is, 'I'm not moving as easily as I used to,'” says Rebecca Wiesehan, MD, attending physician and associate program director, Internal Medicine Residency Program, Missouri Baptist Medical Center. “What may feel like a small concern today can become a bigger obstacle tomorrow. Having that conversation sooner gives us a chance to protect an individual’s mobility and overall well-being for years to come."

Meeting recommended physical activity guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) helps older adults maintain a healthy lifestyle. But even those who stay active should speak up if everyday tasks start to feel more strenuous. Addressing concerns before they escalate can prevent significant mobility limitations in the future.

Hearing

Do conversations seem harder to follow in a crowded room? Have family members mentioned that the TV volume is too loud when it sounds fine to you? These may be signs of hearing loss, which can affect more than your ability to hear. 

A 2024 study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found a link between untreated hearing loss and an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline, emphasizing the importance of addressing hearing concerns early.  

"Immediately addressing hearing loss is one of the most proactive steps people can take to support long-term brain health,” says Dr. Wiesehan. “When hearing loss goes untreated, the brain must work harder to process sounds, which can divert resources away from memory and thought processes. Early intervention keeps people connected and cognitively active, all of which are critical factors in reducing the risk of memory decline."

Although it is normal to experience some degree of hearing loss with age, it is important to share any changes you may notice with your physician. They may recommend a hearing evaluation and, if needed, prescribe a hearing aid or cochlear implant. These treatments can improve communication, social connection, and quality of life.

Memory

Occasional forgetfulness is a natural part of aging, but significant memory lapses deserve attention, especially if they begin interfering with daily activities.  

Schedule an appointment with your physician if you experience notable changes, such as:

• Frequently asking the same questions
• Difficulty managing medications or following directions
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Trouble finding the right words
• Noticeable changes in mood or personality

If you or a loved one notice any of these changes, talk with your physician to identify possible causes and discuss treatment and support options.  

Preventive care

Scheduling and attending your annual physical is important, but preventive care involves more than just lab work. It means staying current on recommended immunizations and screenings based on your age, health history, and risk factors.

Vaccines play a significant role in protecting older adults from serious illness or complications, while screenings help physicians detect health issues before they become more serious.  

“As we age, the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis, diabetes, and certain cancers increases,” says Dr. Wiesehan. “Screening tests give us an opportunity to identify problems early, discuss treatment options, and support longevity for patients.”

Your physician can determine which vaccines and screenings are right for you.

Social engagement

Humans are social beings, yet loneliness and social isolation have become such a concern that in 2023 the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory declared  loneliness a major public health crisis.  

"Maintaining regular social connections is one of the most powerful ways to support lifelong wellness,” says Dr. Wiesehan. “Meaningful interactions keep the brain sharp, reduce feelings of isolation, and are linked to better cognitive, emotional, and physical health over time."

Whether it is joining a mahjong league, volunteering, or meeting a friend for coffee, staying socially engaged has many positive health benefits.  

If you are feeling depressed or isolated, speak with your physician. They can recommend resources that support your mental health and direct you to community programs that encourage social connection.

Looking for a new primary care provider? New patients can schedule their annual physical online with the Missouri Baptist Medical Center Internal Medicine Residency Clinic.