If you or your loved ones are starting to navigate the realities of aging, then it’s important to address the very real changes that can affect your body and your health. As we get older, the chances of developing certain conditions and changes increase, dramatically in some cases. As time goes on, it’s important to be more vigilant about your health, especially in the following areas:

Start Scheduling Vision Exams

Your vision is one aspect of your health that is most likely to change in the years ahead, as eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration become a lot more common. Regular eye exams can catch these issues early, allowing for timely treatment and preserving your vision. Even if you don’t wear glasses, changes in vision can happen gradually, so don’t wait until it’s a problem. If you start experiencing blurry vision or you have trouble driving at night, that’s a clear sign that you need to get your eyes checked out so that they don’t affect your safety and independence.

Get Screened for Hearing Loss

While changes to your hearing can be just as common as changes to your eyesight, they are often overlooked. Because it happens gradually, it may be difficult to notice. However, if you’re having trouble following a conversation, find yourself turning the TV up higher and higher to hear it or have to ask others to repeat themselves routinely, you may be in need of hearing aids. Schedule a hearing test every few years starting around age 50, or sooner if you experience symptoms, to prevent social isolation and cognitive decline, common consequences of untreated hearing loss.

Keep Your Bone Health in Mind

As we get older, our bones are naturally going to change as well, leading to an increase in the risk of issues like osteoporosis and arthritis. Women, in particular, are more susceptible after menopause. Ask your doctor about bone density testing, especially if you have a family history of fractures or bone loss. Regular screenings help identify thinning bones before a break occurs. Aside from medication to supplement bone health, weight-bearing exercises and light strength training can help you maintain your bone mass.

Your Heart Health is Vital

Cardiovascular disease risk increases with age, so keeping tabs on your heart health is essential. Regular blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, and EKGs help detect early signs of hypertension, arrhythmias, or heart disease. If you have any family history of heart issues, then you should be even more active in asking your doctor about what you should be doing to prevent them in you. There are lots of steps that can have a positive impact, such as managing your stress levels, eating a heart-healthy diet, and exercising regularly.

As you get older, you don’t have to live in fear of whatever change is next around the corner. You should, however, be mindful and proactive in addressing any changes, so that you’re able to adjust and keep living your life to the fullest.