Aging is a journey filled with wisdom, growth, and new opportunities to care for yourself in ways that keep you feeling your best. For many women over 65, it’s a time to take charge of your well-being. With the right care and knowledge, you can stay strong, active, and confident for years to come.
Whether you’re well into retirement or balancing family responsibilities, your health needs may differ from those of men or even from women in other age brackets. Understanding these differences can help you make informed choices that support lifelong health and vitality.
At Patina, we believe every woman deserves care that’s personal, thoughtful and designed with her in mind. This guide explores common health conditions that affect women uniquely, disproportionately, or differently than men, along with some tips to stay on top of your well-being.
1. Keeping your bones strong and healthy
Women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis than men, especially after menopause. As estrogen levels decrease, bones lose density, increasing the risk of fractures — particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist.
"Gentle activities like walking, dancing, and light strength training can go a long way in helping women maintain bone strength and improve balance," says Kathy Hill, a nurse practitioner at Patina. Balance and flexibility exercises, like Tai Chi or yoga, can also reduce fall risk and improve mobility.
To support your bone health:
- Aim for at least 1,200 mg of calcium daily from sources like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods.
- Get 15–30 minutes of sunlight or take a vitamin D supplement to help with calcium absorption.
- Schedule regular bone density screenings (DEXA scans) to detect issues early.
2. Caring for your heart with confidence
Heart disease, often thought of as a men’s issue, remains the No. 1 health concern for women over 65 — yet symptoms often go unrecognized. Instead of classic chest pain, women may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, indigestion, or upper back or jaw pain.
"Keeping your heart healthy is one of the most important things you can do as you age, and it’s never too late to start," says Michelle Lu, a nurse practitioner at Patina.
To keep your heart strong:
- Know the signs of heart disease and seek medical care if you experience unusual symptoms.
- Get routine checkups, including blood pressure and cholesterol screenings.
- Exercise regularly, aiming for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week such as walking or swimming.
- Incorporate heart-healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish into your diet.
3. Staying on top of breast health
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with risk increasing with age as well as family history. Early detection is key. Most experts recommend mammograms every one to two years for women over 65, depending on health history. Talk with your provider to determine what’s best for you.
Beyond regular screenings, women can stay proactive by periodically performing self-checks to notice changes in breast shape, skin texture, or lumps. Report any concerns to your healthcare provider — early detection leads to better outcomes.
4. Don’t overlook bladder health
Frequent bathroom trips, urgency, or leaks when laughing or sneezing are common but not an inevitable part of aging. Women experience bladder issues, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and incontinence more often than men due to anatomical differences and hormonal changes.
To support bladder health:
- Practice Kegel exercises daily to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder control.
- Stay hydrated (6–8 glasses of water daily) to flush out bacteria and prevent UTIs.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder.
- Talk to your doctor if you notice changes in frequency, urgency, or discomfort — there are many solutions available.
5. Strengthening mental and emotional wellness
Emotional well-being is just as important as physical health. Many women juggle caregiving responsibilities, health concerns, and life transitions, all of which can affect mood, stress, and energy.
"The stigma around mental health has decreased, yet the unique emotional challenges older women face are still often overlooked," says Monika Downey, PhD, MSCP, Senior Director of Behavioral Health at Patina. "The good news is there are simple, effective ways to strengthen emotional well-being and improve overall quality of life."
Ways to support your emotional well-being:
- Stay connected: Relationships are vital for mental health. Maintain strong social ties by spending time with loved ones, joining community groups, or volunteering.
- Prioritize self-care: Small daily habits — journaling, enjoying a cup of tea, or spending time outdoors — can have a big impact.
- Practice mindfulness: Deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Get quality sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours per night by establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and avoiding screens before bed.
- Move your body: Physical activity boosts mood and energy — try walking, stretching, or dancing.
- Seek professional support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or persistently down, talking to a mental health professional can help.
By prioritizing your emotional health, you can build resilience and maintain a strong sense of purpose.
6. A personalized approach to preventive care
Preventive care helps identify potential health concerns early, leading to better outcomes. In addition to bone density scans, mammograms, and heart health checks, it’s important to monitor vision, hearing, and cognitive function regularly.
At Patina, we take the time to understand what matters most to you, so we can create a care plan that fits your life and is in line with your goals, values and preferences. Whether it’s managing a chronic condition or staying proactive with screenings, our care is always built around you through a holistic approach to keep you feeling your best.
Final thoughts
Women over 65 have distinct healthcare needs that deserve special attention. By staying regular with regular screenings, healthy habits, and meaningful connections, you can continue to live a life full of energy, purpose, and joy.
Your health journey is unique, and you deserve care that fits your needs. At Patina, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to take charge of your health? Let’s connect!
Are you looking for a provider who supports you as a whole person, including condition management and more? Patina is a unique medical practice that supports your total health and well-being. Please share your contact information and our team will reach out within a business day to answer any questions or schedule your first appointment.
