Turning 60 is more than just a milestone – it’s a gentle nudge to start putting your health first for the years to come. As life’s pace finally slows and retirement beckons, the excuses fade: no more postponing medical appointments for work meetings, family obligations or social catch-ups. Now is the time to invest in your wellbeing, set yourself up for a long, vibrant retirement, and feel confident about the future.
The best place to start? Book in for a comprehensive health review with your doctor and use this guide to ask the right questions. Think of it as your personal check-list for the next stage – practical, preventative, and a little peace of mind.
General Health
First things first: screening and prevention. Ask your GP about the tests you need for your age – colonoscopy, mammogram, bone density scan, prostate exam. Early detection really can save lives, and regular check-ups keep you on top of things. Vaccines matter too: are you up-to-date on shingles, COVID boosters, and the annual flu shot?
Heart and Circulatory Health
Check your blood pressure, cholesterol and discuss your personal risk for heart disease and stroke. Your doctor can help with strategies to keep these vital systems running smoothly as the years roll by.
Cognitive Health
Keeping your brain sharp is as important as caring for your body. Ask about memory, signs of dementia, and ways to maintain mental agility. Simple changes in lifestyle and regular puzzles or games can keep your mind active.
Bone and Joint Health
Strong bones and flexible joints make retirement more enjoyable – whether you’re travelling, gardening or just keeping up with the grandkids. Weight-bearing exercises, bone density testing and a review of your calcium and vitamin D intake all matter, as do strategies to manage arthritis or osteoporosis.
Cancer Screening
The top five cancers for over-60s in Australia are prostate, breast, bowel, melanoma and lung (if you’ve smoked). Make sure you’re getting the recommended screenings and know the risk factors relevant to you.
Medication Review
You might be on medicines or supplements for a decade or more. Ask your doctor if those are still right for you: are there safer or more effective options, or anything putting you at risk of falls or cognitive changes?
Eye Health
Eyes really are windows to your world. Vision can shift fast after 60, and checking for cataracts, glaucoma, and other age-related changes should be part of your routine. Most optometrists recommend a check every two years, but more often if your vision’s changing.
Podiatry
Foot health says a lot about circulation, diabetes and arthritis. If you’re feeling pain in your feet, legs or hips, book in for an appointment. Sometimes, proper footwear or orthotics can make all the difference.
Sleep and Energy
If tiredness is creeping in or sleep isn’t as refreshing as it once was, talk to your GP. Sleep apnea, restless legs, or side effects from medication could be the cause—and improving sleep pays dividends in every part of life.
Mental Health
More Australians than ever are talking about depression and anxiety openly. Asking about emotional and psychological health at 60 is smart: retirement can be a big adjustment and finding resources early can make a major difference.
Bladder, Bowel and Sexual Health
No one likes to talk about it, but changes in continence, frequent night urination or changes in sexual health are common after 60. Be candid with your doctor -there’s often a solution.
Fitness and Nutrition
Ask your doctor about the best forms of exercise and diet now that you’re entering retirement. Adjusting supplements, meal plans and activity can give you energy—for travel, hobbies and everyday life.
Advanced Care Planning
Lastly, consider discussing an advanced care directive or living will. It’s about taking control of your future: planning for health, finances, and care so your wishes are known and respected.
Reaching 60 isn’t a signal to stop, it’s permission to be proactive—to check in and set the course for a healthy, fulfilling retirement. A little prevention now can mean more independence, more joy and more time doing what you love.
Start with a check-up. Make a plan. The choices you make today add life to your years tomorrow—so take care, take charge, and embrace the next chapter with confidence and energy.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.