How frequently should women aged 60 and older have a physical exam?

For women aged 60 and older, having a physical exam every two years is generally recommended, as this aligns well with the evolving health needs of this age group.

At this stage of life, it is essential to monitor for chronic conditions, manage existing health concerns, and assess overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While annual physicals may be encouraged in certain contexts or for patients with specific health issues, a biennial exam is typically seen as adequate for asymptomatic individuals in this demographic, allowing for effective health monitoring while also considering the balance between healthcare needs and resource utilization.

Additionally, frequent exams are crucial to detect any new health issues early on, facilitate preventive measures, and tailor lifestyle recommendations or health interventions appropriately. This interval provides sufficient time between check-ups to evaluate changes while ensuring that older adults maintain access to necessary healthcare services.