As we age, staying active, maintaining independence, and pursuing our passions becomes even more important, but our health can sometimes throw unexpected challenges in the way. For seniors over 65, managing health proactively is key to maintaining the lifestyle you love. Regular primary care visits can help you stay ahead of potential complications so you can move on from reacting to health issues to actively preventing them.  

A part of aging is facing increased risks to your health. By establishing a solid relationship with your primary care provider (PCP), you can take control of your well-being. With regular visits, your PCP can help detect early health changes, manage medications, and address lifestyle factors that impact your overall health. Most importantly, working closely with a trusted PCP can significantly reduce your risk for avoidable hospital visits or emergencies, so you can keep doing what you love for years to come. 

Regular visits with your PCP can provide:  

• Preventive care- Early detection of changes in your health followed by proper treatment can prevent potential complications. 

• Medication management- Your PCP or care team will make sure your medications are working effectively and manage any potential side effects or barriers to taking them. 

• Lifestyle management-Through identifying factors that need improvement such as diet, exercise, or stress, your PCP can recommend changes that can impact your health. 

• Reduce risk factors to your health- Monitoring and managing risk factors, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, can prevent or manage illnesses. 

• Coordination of care- Your PCP and any specialists or other care team members involved in your treatment can align on your progress and needs.  

• Manage chronic conditions- Guided by your PCP, you can proactively get ahead of issues that may have otherwise resulted in an emergency department visit, hospitalization, or other complication.  

• Education- Access to appropriate resources, along with a proper understanding of your condition, care options, and treatment plan, can help you actively manage your health.  

Routine, personalized, strategic care through your PCP can help prevent illness or injury and empower you to take control of your health. Ready to take the next step? Find your PCP at Central Ohio Primary Care today.