Stop Putting Off the Doctor: A Wake-Up Call for Men Over 60

I’ll admit it: I used to be one of those guys who never saw the doctor unless I was seriously sick. If I had a nagging pain, I’d “tough it out.” If I felt tired, I’d chalk it up to getting older. I figured, why go looking for problems?

But here’s what I’ve learned—and what I wish I had realized sooner: feeling “fine” doesn’t mean you’re healthy.Many of the most serious conditions affecting older men, like heart disease or cancer, show no symptoms—until it’s too late.

That’s why I’m speaking up during Men’s Health Week: not just for me, but for every guy out there who’s been putting it off. If you’re a man over 60, it’s time to be proactive about your health. You don’t need to wait for a crisis. A check-up could save your life.

👨‍⚕️ Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Dr. John Fitzpatrick, a trusted physician at Highland Medical, put it perfectly:

“Men often think there’s no reason to see a doctor if they feel fine. But many conditions can get worse if not promptly treated.”

I used to say I didn’t have time. Or I’d forget. Or maybe I just didn’t want to hear any bad news. Sound familiar?

But here’s the truth: you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to stay healthy. You can’t take care of your family if you’re not taking care of yourself.

🩺 What Your Doctor Should Check For

These days, I make my yearly checkups count. Here’s what your doctor will likely screen for—and why it matters:

✅ Blood Pressure

• High blood pressure is called “the silent killer” for a reason.

• It's checked at every routine visit and is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

✅ Cholesterol

• Men 35 and older should get a cholesterol check at least every 5 years.

• If your numbers are high—or if your weight, diet, or activity level changes—you may need more frequent testing.

✅ Diabetes

• Screening starts at age 35 and is repeated every 3 years.

• If you’re overweight, have a family history, or had high blood pressure like I did, you may be tested more often.

✅ Colorectal Cancer

• Screening starts at age 45 (or earlier with family history).

• Options include colonoscopies, stool tests, or CT colonography. Not fun, I know—but worth it.

✅ Prostate Cancer

• Talk with your doctor at age 50—or at 45 if you’re African American or have a family history.

• You’ll discuss the risks and benefits before deciding if testing is right for you.

✅ Lung Cancer

• If you’re 50 to 80 and a current or former smoker, talk to your doctor about yearly lung cancer screening.

• I quit smoking years ago, but I still qualified.

💉 Don’t Skip the Vaccines

At my age, vaccines are more important than ever. Make sure you’re up to date on:

• Tetanus booster (every 10 years)

• Shingles vaccine

• Pneumonia vaccine (especially if you’re 65+)

👣 Take the First Step

Maybe you’ve been putting it off too. But if I can make the call, so can you. Being proactive doesn't make you weak—it makes you wise.

Dr. Fitzpatrick said something that stuck with me:

“Catching silent illnesses early can prevent harm or even save your life. Taking care of yourself allows you to care for others.”

That hit home.

So this Men’s Health Week, make the call. Book your check-up. Bring a list of questions. Ask about screenings. And if you're reading this as a wife, daughter, or friend—give the man in your life a loving nudge.

We men may be stubborn, but we’re not invincible. It’s time we start acting like our health matters—because it does.

Mobile Healthcare Partners Inc. is here to help you take control of your health—before it takes control of you.  Reach out to us today!