The Ministry of Health announced on April 10 that certain health conditions, such as anemia and memory loss, should not be considered a normal part of aging. The announcement highlights the importance of regular preventive checkups for people aged 60 and older to maintain a good quality of life.
According to the Ministry, there is a tendency to accept some discomforts as natural with age, but this can delay necessary medical attention. Preventive health evaluations are recommended starting at age 60 because people become more susceptible to heart problems, cognitive issues, and other conditions as they grow older.
Dr. Alfredo Stuart Barrreto, a geriatrician at the National Hospital Cayetano Heredia under the Ministry of Health, said it is important for adults over 60 to undergo comprehensive preventive assessments. He said that while forgetting small things happens at any age—such as leaving home without a watch or keys—more serious memory problems like forgetting family members’ names or how to get home may signal cognitive decline. “It is important to screen for cognitive impairment from ages 60 to 65 using validated memory tests so problems can be detected early,” Barrreto said.
Barrreto also explained that conditions like anemia, diabetes, or urinary incontinence should not be ignored or accepted as part of growing old. Instead, these are warning signs that require timely treatment. “It is important for people to know that diseases in their early stages—especially chronic ones like diabetes, hypertension or cancer—do not show symptoms,” he said.
The Ministry encourages families to promote preventive measures among older adults in order to preserve their health and improve their quality of life.
