Women’s health centre

Simple health steps for women in their 60s and upwards

1. Use it or lose it.

"As we age, it's important to pay attention to cognitive function and try to stay mentally alert and stimulated," says JoAnn Manson, chief of the division of preventive medicine at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital in the US. That means keeping your brain busy. Read, do crossword puzzles, socialise, try new hobbies. (Maybe it's finally time to learn French!)

2. Strength training: it's never too late to start.

In your 60s, you may think the heaviest thing you should lift is the TV remote. Not true! We inevitably lose bone mass and flexibility with age. But regular strength training (with an OK from your doctor, of course) can keep you on your toes, prevent muscles from atrophying, and help you avoid falls and other accidents.

3. There's still time to stop!

If you've been trying for years to give up a heart-unhealthy habit such as smoking or drinking to excess, don't assume that the damage has already been done. It has -- but you can repair or avoid some of it if you stop now. Studies have found that people who stop smoking at age 65 add almost two years to their lives, cutting their risk of heart disease and lung cancer.

4. Don't forget key screening tests.

Talk to your GP about whether you are a particular risk of osteoporosis and whether you should have a bone density scan. You might also want to ask about risks for diabetes and whether your blood sugar levels should be checked. You'll probably hear a lot about flu jabs, but don't forget the pneumonia vaccination, which you should get at 65 if you have not had one before. Women between 50 and 70 will be invited for a mammogram every three years, and cervical smear tests are routinely offered up to the age of 64. The , the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme is offering screening every two years to all men and women aged 60 to 69 in England and Wales (ages for all screening programmes vary in Scotland and Northern Ireland).