At what age do you start getting physicals? A complete age-by-age guide

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), newborns should have their first physical exam within the first few days or weeks of life, with frequent checkups continuing through the first 30 months. The frequency of these exams changes throughout a person's life, leading many to wonder at what age do you start getting physicals and how often you should continue them.

Quick Summary

A physical exam schedule starts in infancy and changes throughout a person's life, from frequent checks in childhood to regular visits in adulthood. Frequency recommendations vary by age, health status, and other risk factors. These visits are crucial for monitoring health, detecting problems early, and providing preventive care.

Key Points

• Infants start early: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the first physical exam within the first few days or weeks of life, followed by frequent checkups throughout the first year.

• Annual visits for children: From age 3 through the teenage years, children should receive an annual well-child visit to monitor growth, development, and provide vaccinations.

• Adult frequency varies: Healthy adults under 40 may be able to have physicals every 1 to 5 years, but many medical professionals recommend yearly exams to establish a baseline.

• Screening increases with age: As adults reach middle age and beyond, the focus shifts to screening for chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and various cancers.

• Older adults require annual wellness checks: Individuals 65 and older typically receive an annual wellness visit to assess memory, fall risk, and screen for other age-specific conditions.

• Physicals are for prevention, not just illness: A key reason for regular physicals is to catch health issues early when they are most treatable, even if you feel healthy.

• Preparation is key: To maximize your visit, prepare your medical and family history, medication list, and any questions or concerns beforehand.

The journey of routine physical exams begins in infancy and evolves significantly as a person ages, transitioning from frequent developmental checks to a focus on screening for age-related conditions. Understanding this timeline is key to maintaining a proactive approach to your health. The medical community emphasizes that these exams are not just for when you are sick, but are a cornerstone of preventive wellness.

Physical exams during infancy and childhood

For babies and young children, physical exams, often called "well-child visits," are frequent because they are in a period of rapid growth and development. The American Academy of Pediatrics provides a standardized schedule to ensure all milestones are met and health issues are caught early.

• Infancy (Birth to 1 year): The first checkup is recommended a few days after birth. Subsequent exams occur at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months. These visits monitor growth, screen for developmental delays, and administer necessary immunizations.
• Toddlers (1 to 3 years): Visits continue at 15, 18, 24, and 30 months. The pediatrician tracks milestones like walking and speech, monitors behavior, and addresses concerns about nutrition and sleep.
• School-Age Children (3 to 18 years): Starting at age 3, the schedule typically shifts to an annual well-child visit. These appointments include a full physical exam, vision and hearing tests, and necessary vaccinations. They also address mental, emotional, and social development, as well as providing necessary paperwork for school or sports.

How adult physicals differ

Upon reaching adulthood, the focus of physical exams shifts from developmental tracking to preventive screenings for chronic diseases. While a yearly exam is a common and convenient way to stay on top of your health, the recommended frequency can depend on age and risk factors.

Early adulthood (18–39)

For healthy adults in their 20s and 30s, a physical exam every 1 to 5 years might be sufficient, but an annual visit is often recommended to establish a baseline. These exams focus on:

• Vital Signs: Regular checks of blood pressure, heart rate, and BMI.
• Lifestyle Assessment: Discussions about diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol use.
• Screenings: For women, a Pap smear and pelvic exam may begin at age 21, and cholesterol checks can start around age 20 if risk factors are present. For both men and women with risk factors, screenings for diabetes and STIs are important.
• Immunizations: Staying up-to-date with vaccinations like tetanus boosters.

Middle age (40–64)

As you enter middle age, the risk for chronic diseases increases, and the emphasis on regular screenings grows.

• Cardiovascular Health: Cholesterol checks and blood pressure monitoring become more critical.
• Cancer Screenings: Discussions about colon cancer screening, which is recommended to start around age 45. Women will begin routine mammograms.
• Disease Management: For those with existing conditions like diabetes or hypertension, more frequent visits may be needed.

Older adulthood (65+)

For older adults, annual wellness visits become a cornerstone of preventative care, with an increased focus on age-specific screenings.

• Screenings: Routine tests for osteoporosis (bone density), colon cancer, and diabetes continue.
• Cognitive Function: The doctor may assess memory and cognitive function.
• Mental Health: Screening for mental health conditions like depression is vital.
• Fall Risk: Assessment for fall risk may be conducted, and preventative strategies discussed.

Comparison of physical exams across ages

This table highlights the key differences in physical exams at different life stages, illustrating the shift in focus from growth and development to disease prevention and management.

Feature	Infancy & Childhood (0–18 years)	Adulthood (18–64 years)	Older Adulthood (65+ years)
Focus	Tracking growth, development, and milestones; preventative vaccines.	Establishing health baselines; early detection of chronic disease.	Managing existing conditions; screening for age-related diseases; cognitive health.
Communication	Primarily with parents/caregivers; age-appropriate tools used.	Direct communication with the patient about symptoms and lifestyle.	Direct communication with patient; may include cognitive assessments.
Screenings	Vision, hearing, autism, scoliosis, motor skills.	Blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, mental health, specific cancer screenings based on risk.	Osteoporosis, colon cancer, diabetes, memory and cognition.
Physical Examination	Head, eyes, ears, abdomen, skin; checking reflexes and motor skills.	Head-to-toe check; listening to heart and lungs; palpation.	Same as adulthood, with added focus on fall risk and other age-specific issues.

Conclusion: The lifelong commitment to wellness

The practice of getting a physical exam is a lifelong commitment that changes and adapts to a person's stage of life. From the frequent, developmental checkups of infancy to the focused, preventative screenings of adulthood, these visits are an invaluable tool for ensuring good health. They allow doctors to catch potential problems early when they are most treatable, establish a long-term relationship with a healthcare provider, and provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By understanding the recommended schedule for your age, you can take a proactive role in your own wellness, addressing concerns before they become serious issues. Investing this time in preventive care is one of the best things you can do for your health and longevity.

Why regular checkups matter

Regardless of your age, the benefits of regular physical exams are clear. They provide an opportunity for early disease detection, which can lead to better treatment outcomes. A consistent relationship with a primary care provider allows for the tracking of trends and identification of small changes in your health over time. These visits also serve as a crucial touchpoint for vaccinations, addressing new symptoms, and receiving personalized health advice. Whether you are feeling perfectly healthy or have specific concerns, a physical exam is a proactive step toward a healthier future. For more information on age-specific health screenings, consult an organization like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to stay informed on the latest recommendations.

CDC Health Screenings

How to prepare for your physical

To make the most of your visit, come prepared. Gather your family's medical history, create a list of all current medications and supplements you take, and note any symptoms or health concerns you have. You can also write down questions for your doctor about your health goals, lifestyle habits, or recommended screenings. This preparation will ensure your doctor has a complete picture of your health, leading to a more thorough and personalized examination.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does a child need their first physical?

A newborn should have their first physical exam within the first few days or weeks of life, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Subsequent frequent visits are scheduled throughout the first 30 months of life.

How often should an adult get a physical?

For adults, the frequency can vary. Most healthy adults under 40 can have a physical every 1 to 5 years, but many doctors recommend annual visits. After age 40, yearly exams are generally advised to monitor for chronic conditions.

What is the difference between a child's physical and an adult's?

A child's physical focuses heavily on tracking growth, development, and administering immunizations. An adult's physical shifts to baseline health checks and preventive screenings for chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Are annual physicals covered by insurance?

In most cases, annual physical exams, considered preventative care, are covered by insurance plans with no out-of-pocket cost. It's always a good idea to confirm with your specific insurance provider for details on your plan.

What happens during a physical exam?

A physical typically includes a check of vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, weight), a review of your health history, and a physical assessment of various body systems. Depending on your age and risk factors, blood tests and specific screenings may also be performed.

Why are physical exams important even if you feel healthy?

Physicals are crucial for preventative care, as many health issues, such as heart disease or diabetes, can be asymptomatic in their early stages. These exams help establish a baseline for your health, making it easier for your doctor to detect small changes over time.

What should I bring to my physical exam?

To prepare, bring a list of your current medications and supplements, a record of your family's medical history, notes on any symptoms or concerns, and a list of questions for your doctor.