A Men’s Guide for Healthy Aging
While aging brings wisdom, it can also bring challenges, especially when it comes to physical and mental health. Many countries celebrate Father’s Day in June, but it’s also a great time to focus on the unique health needs of men as they grow older. By staying on top of health in later life, men can have more independence, better quality of life, and longer years doing the things they love.
Staying healthy
Globally, men are less likely to visit the doctor regularly, and they often wait longer to seek help for health concerns. In most countries, men are more likely than women to die before turning 70. In fact, men’s mortality because of external causes is four times higher than women. Over a third of men’s death are from preventable causes.
Preventive care is the first step to living healthily. The following health screenings are generally recommended for men as they age:
1. Blood pressure and cholesterol checks. High blood pressure and cholesterol are key risk factors for heart disease—the leading cause of death worldwide. Regular checks (at least once a year) can help prevent heart attacks and strokes by catching silent signs early.
2. Prostate cancer screening (PSA test). Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, especially over age 50. A PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test can detect early signs. While not always required annually, it’s an important conversation to have with your doctor.
3. Colorectal cancer screening. Screenings like colonoscopies or stool tests can detect colon cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Guidelines suggest starting regular screening at age 50, or earlier if you have risk factors or a family history.
4. Diabetes screening. Type 2 diabetes often develops silently and increases risks for heart disease, kidney damage, and vision loss. A simple blood test for blood sugar or HbA1c can catch it early.
5. Bone density scan. While often thought of as a women’s issue, one in five men over 50 experience an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime. Men over 70—or earlier if they’ve had fractures or chronic illnesses—should ask about this scan.
6. Hearing and vision tests. Declines in hearing and vision can affect communication, independence, and even increase fall risk. People with hearing loss are also at greater risk for dementia. Regular checks help support quality of life and prevent isolation.
7. Mental health screening. The suicide rate for men is twice as high as for women. Depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline can go unrecognized in men. Simple mental health check-ins with a doctor can lead to meaningful support and resources when needed.
Stay active – and engaged
Staying healthy isn’t just about exercise—it’s also about staying engaged with life, people, and passions. Here are a few creative and effective ways to stay moving and motivated:
• Do weight training with everyday items. Using soup cans in bodyweight exercises helps keep muscle mass, which naturally declines with age. Muscle strength supports balance, mobility, and metabolism.
• Walk the mall with friends. Walking with others adds a social boost and accountability. Even 30 minutes a day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
• Try tai chi or water aerobics. These gentle, low-impact exercises are great for joint health, balance, and stress relief—especially for those managing arthritis or recovering from surgery.
• Grow alongside a garden. More than a hobby, gardening improves mobility, promotes mindfulness, and provides access to fresh, healthy food.
• Lend a hand. Staying socially connected supports mental health and gives a sense of purpose. Mentoring younger generations or volunteering in the community can be deeply fulfilling.
• Go back to school. From woodworking to learning a new language, engaging the brain helps reduce cognitive decline and builds confidence at any age.
• Make daily tasks an adventure. Walking or cycling to run errands can turn everyday activities into opportunities for movement and fresh air.
Even with up-to-date screenings and engaged activities, sometimes a little extra help is worth the investment. Home care offers personalized support to help older men stay independent, healthy, and in control of their daily lives. Whether it’s medication reminders, meal preparation, companionship, or transportation to appointments, home care can make a major difference. Imagine a day-in-the-life:
Joe is 78 and lives alone. He has type 2 diabetes and arthritis in his knees, but he’s determined to stay active and independent. A professional caregiver visits him each morning to help with a healthy breakfast and ensure he takes his medication. They take a short walk together, and then Joe works in his garden while his caregiver helps tidy up and preps lunch. In the afternoon, they go to his local senior center, where Joe teaches a weekly chess class. At the end of the day, Joe feels accomplished, connected, and well cared for.
Men’s health deserves just as much care, attention, and celebration as any other part of life. With the right screenings, smart lifestyle choices, and a little support, aging men can enjoy years of strength, purpose, and independence.
Sources: PAHO; John Hopkins Medicine; WHO; Journal of Orthopedic Surgery & Research; Alzheimer’s Society; IASP;