Five health check-ups and vaccines to have over 60 to prevent serious illness during your golden years

Growing older brings many joys but as we age, maintaining our health becomes critical. Unique health challenges may be flung our way as we roll through the decades, but many can be managed with proactive care.The flu vaccine, for instance, has been used in Scotland since 2000, with millions of doses given.

Scotland saw 53.7 per cent of the entire eligible adult population receive a flu vaccine from winter 2024-2024.From staying up-to-date with vaccines to scheduling annual examinations, there are some essential health check-ups that can majorly improve your quality of life and help prevent serious illness during your golden years. Vaccinations While many of us recover from the flu, Covid or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) without any lasting issues, experiencing these infections later in life can lead to severe health complications and, in some cases, be fatal.“Vaccinations are the single biggest public health intervention and are the greatest protection against many infectious illnesses – some of these are offered on a yearly basis for diseases that circulate at certain times, like flu and Covid,” says Dr Paula Cowan MRCGP, North West medical director for primary care at NHS England. “While the national vaccination booking system has now closed, those over 65, amongst others, can also still get protected by visiting a Covid-19 walk-in vaccination site or finding a pharmacy offering the flu vaccine.

A newer vaccination against respiratory syncytial virus is now being offered to pregnant people and those aged 75-79.” NHS Health Check This scheme is often referred to as a ‘Midlife MOT’.

It is available to those between 40 and 74 who don’t have certain pre-existing conditions.“The quick check can tell you whether