Women's Health and Wellness in Your 60s

Health in Your 60s

Your 60s is the season of experiencing what you love most in life, and many women are exploring new hobbies and healthy habits as their children are now grown and may be starting families of their own. BayCare is the leading provider in women’s health in Tampa Bay, with comprehensive and quality services, support, and resources. Whether you’re looking to schedule a mammogram or looking for guidance about keeping a healthy heart with your primary care doctor, we are here for you for all of your specific needs. 

Screenings & Vaccinations

It’s important to keep up with recommended screenings as the risk for health issues increases.

  • Cervical Cancer Screening
    It is important to have a regular pap smear to screen for cervical cancer. This test is performed every three years or as directed by your health care provider.
  • Blood Pressure Screening

    If you have a low risk for heart disease, it is recommended that you get your blood pressure checked every other year. However, some may require annual screenings, so check with your health care provider on recommendations.  
  • Breast Exam
    Regularly examining your breasts on your own each month is an easy way to look and feel for any abnormalities. Combined with the breast exam performed during your annual check-up, you have a higher chance of finding cancer early, when it’s more like to be treated successfully.
  • Cholesterol Blood Panel
    Monitoring your cholesterol is an important part of heart disease prevention. Depending on your personal and family medical history, your health care provider may offer lifestyle adjustments to reduce your risk of heart disease. Typically, your cholesterol levels are checked every 5 years or annually if your results are high.
  • Colorectal Screening
    Colorectal screenings are recommended starting at 45. Talk with your health care provider on how frequently you should have another screening.
  • Depression Screening
    Hormones can cause a lot of changes, including affecting your mental health. During a depression screening, you’ll answer a series of questions to determine if you are experiencing depression or at risk for suicide. Your health care provider may recommend treatment, including referrals to a psychiatrist or therapist.
  • Diabetes Screening
    Nearly 15% of Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes, a metabolic disease identified by high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). It is recommended that you test for diabetes at least once every 3 years. 
  • Flu Shot
    The flu vaccine is the best chance to avoid getting the flu. It is important to get the flu vaccine every year as soon as it is available. https://baycare.org/flu
  • Mammogram
    It is recommended that you get your first mammogram (an x-ray of the breast) in your 40s unless otherwise suggested by your health care provider. Keeping regular mammogram screenings can increase the chances of catching cancer early, making it easier to treat. Schedule your mammogram now.
  • Pneumonia Vaccine
    The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect the body from pneumococcal disease. This severe bacterial infection can affect your lungs, blood, and brain. Your health care provider may recommend this vaccine at 65 to help prevent future complications.
  • Shingles Vaccine
    Shingles is a painful rash caused by the same virus as chickenpox. Your health care provider may recommend the shingles vaccine to prevent occurrences of the disease.  
  • Tdap Vaccine Booster
    The Tdap vaccine helps protect against Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis, all of which are serious diseases. Boosters are recommended every 10 years for adults.