Aged 50 or over? Here are 6 health checks you should do

On this page 

• Why you should get regular health checks
• Osteoporosis
• Hearing
• Non-age specific checks
• Health checks that used to be at 50 but aren't now

Over 50? Stay healthy on the job or in retirement

For emergency service workers over 50, regular health checks are vital.  Years of intense physical and mental demands can take a toll, increasing the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and joint issues.  

Early detection through routine checks helps you stay fit, safe, and ready for whatever comes next—on the job or in retirement. 

Osteoporosis

When it comes to when men should get checked for osteoporosis, there are different views. Some health groups say from 60+, while others say 50+.  

For women, the consensus is for those aged 50+. It's also recommended for those in the above groups who also have one or more of the following; 

• A family history of a fragility fracture
• Smoke, or drink alcohol above healthy levels
• Vitamin D or calcium deficiency
• Low body weight
• Recurrent falls
• Immobile (you can't walk or do housework without help) or have low levels of physical activity
• Long term use of corticosteroid therapy or some other medicines 

If this is you, you should see your GP who may refer you for a bone density scan. This is also referred to as DEXA scan, bone density test or bone mineral density test or by the medical name DXA test.  

It's a simple scan that measures the density of your bones at the hip and spine.  To book a DEXA scan, you'll need a referral from a GP if you live in SA, TAS, VIC, ACT and WA. 

If you live in NSW or QLD, you don't need a referral. 

Your DEXA scan are available at various locations, including radiology centres, hospitals and some specialist practices. 

Hearing tests

Given the sometimes loud nature of your work, it's important to remember that hearing loss is gradual and hard to pick up. 

It can result in communication difficulties which make your work and personal life harder. Thankfully the simple hearing test can be done in one appointment, and early intervention  can save you many headaches. 

You don't need a referral from your GP, and you can find hearing clinics near you on the healthdirect website. 

Plus, if you need hearing aids later on our cover can help with some of the costs. It's only available for certain cover, and limits and other terms and conditions apply. 

You can find more information in our Hearing Aids and Hearing Aid Repair Guides. 

Under current Australian Government legislation, private health insurers are unable to pay benefits towards hearing tests, as these are classified as out-of-hospital diagnostic services.

These tests may be funded through Medicare or other government programs when eligibility criteria are met, or paid for in full by the patient. 

Non age-based health checks

Of course, there are things you should get checked no matter what stage you're at in your adult life. Her are some suggestions. 

• Dental – going to the dentist 1-2 times per year can help prevent major dental problems
• Eyesight – Your work and personal life can be affected by poor eyesight, if you need glasses we offer great optical benefits
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) – If you're sexually active, you should get tested regularly for STIs
• Mental health – Address your concerns early through a range of support services 

Health checks that have moved

There are 2 health checks that were required when you turn 50, but are now required earlier. 

You now need to get a check for bowel cancer from age 45. This is important to know because bowel cancer can develop without any symptoms. 

The Federal Department of Health now has different advice for breast screening (mammograms). It now advises that if you're between 40 and 49 years, or 75 years and older, you can book a free screening mammogram, but you need to have no breast cancer symptoms. 

We have more information about these tests and more on our health checks 40-50 year olds page.