As we age, understanding key health metrics such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can make a meaningful difference in staying healthy and independent.

Knowing your numbers and why they matter, and keeping a close eye on them regularly, can help you get a clearer picture of your overall health. In this guide, we'll break down the basics of these important metrics and explain why they matter.

What These Numbers Mean

Keeping track of certain numbers can help you get clues about what is happening inside your body and how your organs are functioning. Understanding the basics of what these metrics mean (and why they matter for your health) can help motivate you to stay informed, confident, and engaged as you take charge of your health.

Blood Pressure

Blood pressure measures the force of your blood pushing against your artery walls as your heart pumps it through your body. Measuring and watching your blood pressure matters because high blood pressure can cause stress on your heart and impact your health. During regularly scheduled visits with your PCP, your provider can measure your blood pressure and ensure it is not getting too high over time.

Blood Sugar

Blood sugar levels that are too high or too low can indicate health conditions. Blood sugar refers to how much sugar (or glucose) is in your blood at any given time. Blood sugar is often measured with a blood test and can help your doctor monitor you for pre-diabetes or diabetes. Tracking blood sugar levels over time can help you and your doctor take action to prevent organ damage before problems occur.

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a type of fat in your blood. Tracking this metric is linked to monitoring your heart health over time. Your doctor will likely monitor your cholesterol regularly with blood tests. Having cholesterol that is too high can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

The Importance of Tracking Numbers Over Time

Tracking your numbers over time is important for catching potential issues early. Early detection can help improve treatment outcomes for common chronic conditions in older adults — so you can enjoy a happier, healthier, and longer life.

By attending regularly scheduled visits with your PCP, you will have a baseline for your health through various metrics. Based on your unique health conditions, your doctor can recommend how often you should recheck your numbers to catch minor changes before they become major issues.

With simple tests, you can do your part in proactively managing your health. In addition to guidance from your doctor on the frequency of testing, regularly scheduled visits give you a chance to ask questions and address concerns directly with your provider.

Find a Location Near You

Regular, effective communication with your primary care provider can help you closely monitor important health metrics such as blood pressure and blood sugar. With regular check-ups and ongoing conversations with your primary care doctor, you can stay in control of your health and catch potential issues early.

We might have a center in your area! Find providers who can help support you in living a healthier life. Talk to your doctor today and take control of managing your health!