Preventative Care: A Five-Step Guide for Seniors and Family Caregivers in New Castle, Newark, and Wilmington, Delaware
By Jamie Ramage, Owner, Comfort Keepers
(New Castle, October 2025)
As your loved one ages, you can help them build a preventative care routine to support their health and well-being for years to come.
While age, gender, and family history are outside of anyone's control, preventative care can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of conditions that may develop. This includes regular immunizations, wellness checks, and lifestyle improvements. For example, you can:
- Get recommended vaccines on schedule
- Schedule screenings for common diseases, chronic conditions, and cancer
- Support healthier lifestyle habits for long-term well-being
Consider accompanying your loved one to medical appointments to help understand necessary steps for improving their health and reducing risks of illness or injury.
Connection and positivity are also essential factors in promoting overall health.
1. Schedule Regular Screenings for Common Conditions
According to the National Institute on Aging, one of the most helpful things you can do during a doctor’s appointment is take notes and advocate for your loved one. Make a list of questions about medical testing and family history ahead of time. Ensure the doctor addresses these concerns and take detailed notes during the visit.
For seniors 65 and older, consider the following screenings:
High Blood Pressure
Annual checks can help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight helps prevent heart disease and diabetes. Your loved one’s doctor can provide guidance.
Vision
Annual eye exams help detect early signs of conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Hearing
If hearing loss is detected, modern hearing aids can make a big difference and improve quality of life.
Diabetes
If your loved one has risk factors like high blood pressure, obesity, or high cholesterol, blood sugar testing every 1 to 3 years is advised.
Depression
Doctors should ask about mood and emotional well-being at least once a year. Depression is common among older adults but can often be managed with support.
Cognitive Decline
Ensure your loved one’s healthcare provider performs regular memory screenings to assess for signs of cognitive decline or impairment.
2. Receive Screenings and Tests for Cancer
Early detection improves outcomes. Your loved one may need screenings for:
- Breast cancer
- Colon cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Lung cancer
Speak with their primary care provider about when to schedule these based on age and risk factors.
3. Stay Current on Vaccinations
As people age, the immune system weakens. Many illnesses can be prevented or made less severe through timely vaccinations. Talk to your doctor about:
- Influenza (yearly)
- COVID-19
- Pneumonia
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis
- Shingles
4. Reduce Risks Through Lifestyle Changes
Quit Smoking
Improves lung function, circulation, and lowers the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Limit Alcohol
Moderate alcohol intake reduces risks of liver disease, memory loss, and can prevent adverse medication interactions.
Get Active
Exercise improves circulation, lung function, and emotional health. Try:
- Moderate activities: walking, housework, gardening, Tai Chi
- More active options: yoga, resistance training, brisk walking, swimming
Eat Well
A healthy diet includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat dairy. Meal prepping can make healthy eating easier and more accessible.
5. Take Steps to Prevent Injuries at Home
Falls and home injuries are a leading cause of hospital visits among seniors. To lower the risk:
- Remove tripping hazards (loose cords, slick floors)
- Lower water heater temperature to avoid burns
- Install smoke detectors and automatic shut-offs on appliances
- Schedule evaluations for balance, strength, and mobility
- Arrange physical therapy for strength and balance
- Look into fall prevention or exercise programs
- Regularly check vision and hearing
Comfort Keepers® Can Help in Delaware
At Comfort Keepers of Delaware, serving New Castle, Newark, and Wilmington, we understand that supporting a senior’s well-being takes time, compassion, and expertise. Our trained caregivers are selected for their empathy and dedication to uplifting care.
Whether you need help implementing preventative care strategies, coordinating appointments, or supporting lifestyle changes, we’re here to help.
Contact Comfort Keepers of Delaware today to learn more about our customized in-home senior care services.
References
- National Institute on Aging: https://www.nia.nih.gov/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/
Call Us Today! Comfort Keepers of Delaware is here to support you and your loved ones with expert, compassionate care.
📞(302) 322-6717
🌐 www.comfortkeepers.com
✅ Frequently Asked Questions
- What preventative health screenings are recommended for seniors?
Seniors should receive annual checks for blood pressure, vision, hearing, weight, diabetes, and cognitive function, along with cancer screenings. - Why are vaccinations important for older adults?
Aging weakens the immune system. Vaccines help prevent or lessen the severity of diseases like flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, and shingles. - How can caregivers support a senior’s preventative care plan?
Caregivers can accompany loved ones to appointments, take notes, ask questions, and help implement healthy lifestyle changes at home. - What lifestyle changes help prevent health issues in seniors?
Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, eating healthy, exercising, and removing fall risks are key steps to improving senior wellness. - Does Comfort Keepers of Delaware help with preventative care?
Yes. Comfort Keepers caregivers in New Castle, Newark, and Wilmington assist with implementing preventative routines, appointment support, and more.
