Building your essential healthcare team
For women in their 60s, a team approach to healthcare is crucial, especially since many individuals in this age group are managing one or more chronic conditions. Starting with a strong primary care provider (PCP) is the foundation of this team. Depending on individual health needs, this foundational relationship may be supplemented or even led by a geriatrician, a specialist in older adult care. Regular visits with other specialists, like a gynecologist, are also non-negotiable for addressing specific health concerns that arise post-menopause.
Primary care options for a 60-year-old woman
Choosing the right primary care provider is a critical decision. For a woman in her 60s, there are typically three main options, each with a different focus.
- Internal Medicine Physician: Internists focus on complex, long-term health conditions in adults. They are well-equipped to manage multiple chronic diseases, coordinate care with specialists, and handle general health issues. An internist may be the ideal choice for a woman who has a solid understanding of her health needs but needs comprehensive, ongoing management of various conditions.
- Family Medicine Practitioner: A family medicine doctor provides care for all ages and throughout life, from adolescence to older adulthood. These physicians are a great choice for women who prefer a long-standing doctor-patient relationship and a holistic view of their health, including family history. They can offer continuity of care and understand the family context of health.
- Geriatrician: A geriatrician is a primary care doctor with specialized training in the unique health needs of older adults, typically 65 and over. They are experts in conditions that are more common with age, such as cognitive decline, frailty, and mobility issues. A geriatrician is particularly beneficial for women with multiple, complex medical conditions, who are taking several medications, or who have recently experienced a hospitalization. They are also skilled at coordinating care with other specialists.
Essential specialists for women over 60
Beyond the primary care provider, several other specialists play a key role in maintaining a woman's health in her 60s.
- Gynecologist: Many women mistakenly believe they no longer need to see a gynecologist after menopause. However, annual visits remain critical. Gynecologists specialize in screening for cancers that increase in risk with age, such as breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers. They also manage post-menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, and pelvic floor disorders that can significantly impact quality of life.
- Cardiologist: Heart disease risk increases significantly with age. A comprehensive cardiovascular assessment, including cholesterol and blood pressure monitoring, is essential. A cardiologist can provide specialized care for managing heart health, especially for women with a family history or existing risk factors.
- Endocrinologist: This specialist deals with hormonal imbalances, which can cause a range of symptoms. While a PCP or gynecologist may address initial menopausal symptoms, an endocrinologist may be consulted for complex cases or if conditions like osteoporosis or thyroid dysfunction are present.
- Gastroenterologist: Colonoscopies are an important part of preventative care, and screening for colorectal cancer should continue through regular screenings into the 60s and beyond, often recommended starting at age 45-50. A gastroenterologist specializes in digestive health and can perform this critical procedure.
- Ophthalmologist and Audiologist: Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting age-related conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Hearing loss is also common with age, and an audiologist can conduct regular hearing tests.
Comparison of primary care providers for women over 60
| Feature | Internal Medicine Physician | Family Medicine Practitioner | Geriatrician |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Comprehensive medical care for adults, specializing in complex or long-term conditions. | Holistic care for patients of all ages, integrating family history and context. | Specialized care for older adults (typically 65+) with a focus on aging-related issues. |
| Best For | Women with one or more stable chronic diseases who need ongoing adult care management. | Women who prefer a lifelong doctor-patient relationship and a focus on overall wellness. | Women with multiple, complex medical issues, medication management challenges, or frailty concerns. |
| Training | Residency in Internal Medicine. | Residency in Family Medicine. | Residency in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine, followed by a fellowship in Geriatrics. |
| Key Benefit | Expertise in managing chronic conditions and coordinating with various specialists. | Familiarity with your and your family's health history, providing a holistic perspective. | Deep understanding of how medical conditions interact in aging bodies and skilled at managing polypharmacy. |
Navigating health priorities and screenings
At 60, preventive care shifts to focusing on screenings for conditions with increased prevalence. Staying on top of recommended screenings is one of the most effective ways to detect issues early, when they are most treatable. For women in their 60s, this includes regular screenings for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
Key Screenings and Tests to Discuss:
- Bone Density Scan (DEXA): Women are at higher risk for osteoporosis, and a bone density scan is recommended starting around age 65. If you have risk factors, your doctor may suggest an earlier scan. This helps assess bone strength and fracture risk.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: This is typically recommended for individuals aged 45-75. Options include a colonoscopy every 10 years, a stool DNA test every 1 to 3 years, or an annual stool-based test.
- Mammogram: Regular mammograms for breast cancer screening are generally recommended for women up to age 75. Discuss the frequency with your doctor based on your risk factors.
- Heart Health: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar is vital for assessing cardiovascular health. A comprehensive cardiovascular assessment may be recommended.
- Thyroid Function: As thyroid function can fluctuate with age, regular testing helps monitor hormone levels.
Conclusion: Your personalized healthcare strategy
For a 60-year-old woman, selecting the right doctors is a strategic process that aligns with your individual health profile and needs. While a trusted primary care provider—whether an internist or family medicine doctor—forms the cornerstone of your care, a geriatrician offers specialized expertise that can be invaluable for managing complex health issues. A key component of care is continuing regular visits with a gynecologist to address post-menopausal health and screen for gynecological cancers. By understanding the roles of these different physicians and proactively engaging in recommended health screenings, you can build a comprehensive care team that supports your health, wellness, and independence for years to come.
Finding the right fit
When choosing your care providers, look for doctors who prioritize open communication and take the time to understand your individual health goals and preferences. If managing multiple medications or coordinating care feels overwhelming, a geriatrician's expertise may be the most beneficial choice. Regardless of your current health status, taking an active role in assembling this team ensures you receive the personalized, expert care you deserve at this stage of life.
