Working
adults and retirees may be far removed from school and the stresses that come
with high-stakes testing.
No matter
our age, though, we’re not done taking tests. Unlike the pop quiz in English
literature, algebra or world history, the tests we take as older adults are
some of the most important exams in our lives.
Colorectal
cancer is one of the most common cancers and the second-most common cause of
cancer death in the U.S. and worldwide. The
American Cancer Society estimates that two-thirds of colorectal cancer deaths
occur in patients over 65. However, if caught early, cancer of the colon is
highly treatable and often curable.
In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the recommended
testing age for colorectal cancer from 50 to 45 due to an increase in its
incidence among younger individuals.
Gen Xers,
Baby Boomers and older generations who are up to date on their testing likely have
already completed a colonoscopy, the gold standard of testing for this
dangerous cancer. This screening test is highly important because colorectal
cancer often doesn’t have symptoms in the initial stages.
The
screening uses a scope to look for polyps, a small clump of cells that forms on
the lining of the colon. Most colon polyps are harmless, but some can become
cancerous. When cancer forms in a polyp, it grows into the wall of the colon
and eventually can spread to distant parts of the body. During a colonoscopy,
the doctor can remove colorectal polyps to help prevent cancer.
While the
test itself is done under general anesthesia, the preparation for a colonoscopy
is often what people dislike. To make sure doctors can see polyps, the colon must
be clean and empty before the procedure. That means everything in your bowel
must go, which is accomplished by drinking large volumes of water mixed with a
laxative the day before, and sometimes the morning before, the procedure. The liquid
results in diarrhea and considerable time in the bathroom as your colon is
cleared. You will also be on a clear-liquid diet the day of the procedure.
The
preparation can be unpleasant. Perhaps that is why four in 10 Americans aged 45
and older are not up to date on their colorectal cancer screenings, according
to the American Cancer Society.
But there is
good news. People who don’t have other risk factors generally
only need to have a colonoscopy every 10 years. Also, a lot has changed in
recent years. Today, the preparation liquid (often a gallon) does not need to
be consumed in one sitting and may be taken the night before and the next
morning, making it more tolerable. The solutions are also better-tasting than
they once were.
Also, there
are some alternatives, including lower-volume solutions and a pill prep
involving 12 tablets taken twice with large amounts
of water. In addition, the FDA has approved three
types of stool tests to screen for colorectal cancer at home. They should be
completed every one to three years. If a stool test is positive, which doesn’t
always mean cancer is present, a follow up colonoscopy is necessary.
There are
things we can do to prepare for a colonoscopy to make the preparation less
unpleasant:
· The less you have in your stomach
before colonoscopy preparation, the easier it will be. Start eating smaller
portions and reducing fiber five to seven days in advance.
· The week before a colonoscopy, avoid
nuts and seeds, popcorn, red meat, raw vegetables, corn, peas, broccoli,
cabbage, dried beans, whole grain bread and pasta, brown or wild rice, fruit
with skins, fried foods and cereals like oatmeal, shredded wheat and granola.
· Chill any liquid preparation, as it
is often easier to drink when it’s cold.
· Use a straw to bypass the tastebuds
in your mouth as you drink the preparation.
· Suck on lemon slices or sugar-free menthol
candy while you drink or after each sip to help with the taste.
· Mix in sugar-free water flavorings
that are clear, not red, blue or purple.
· If nausea was an issue during a previous
preparation, ask your doctor for anti-nausea medicine in advance.
While age is
a risk factor for developing colorectal cancer, increasing physical activity, maintaining
a healthy weight, not smoking and limiting alcohol can
reduce the risk of developing colorectal and other cancers. Even if you were
inactive in your younger years, becoming active when you are older can lower
your risk.
Your primary
care doctor can help you keep track of preventive services, like screening
tests and vaccines, as well as help make lifestyle recommendations such as diet
and exercise to help reduce risk for illness.
About the
Author
Jaimenee “Jaime” Khemraj is chief medical officer for
Healthcare Network, which has practices
throughout Collier County offering family care, dental care and pharmacy as
well as behavioral health counseling. For more information, visit HealthcareSWFL.org,
or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000.
VERY IMPORTANT: Regarding Medicare it is illegal for an insurance agent to call, text, e-mail, knock on your door, hang anything on your door or vehicle or approach you without your consent. If they do ask for their National Producer Number NPN, and you will hear a click and removed from their list. If they dont hang up, get their number and report them to Medicare. There is so much fraud where people are being switched to plans that they never approved or they were miss led. Shop local, do background checks before you give anyone your personal information. You can google them, google reviews, check their Facebook, etc. Make sure that if you are working with someone you can call them personally if you have any questions or concerns. Medicare Annual Enrollment is October 15-December 7th for January 1st, 2027, effective. What can be changed at this time is Medicare Part D Drug Plans and Medicare Part C (Advantage Plans). You should have received your Notification of Change from your current insurance plan. This outlines the current year to the new year changes, as an example if your specialist provider costs $20 now it might say $35 in 2027 (no correlation just an example). Medicare Part C / Advantage Plans, most carriers have raised out of pocket limits and copays along with decreased extra value benefits for 2027. Annually Medicare Advantage Plans make changes. They must all include the same features as Original Medicare but not at the same cost share. They can have a premium, Medical and or Prescription deductible, copays and coinsurance can change. Extra Value such as Vision, Dental, Over the Counter, Part B Give Back, transportation, etc. can all change or be eliminated. Medicare sets the annual in-network out of pocket maximum; in 2026 it is $9,250 for in-network and $13,900 out-of-network services combined (2027 this will increase). However, individual insurance plans may set lower limits. The old saying if it is not broken do not fix it DOES NOT apply to Annual Enrollment. Every year I see many people that have not checked/compared their current plan to what is new. I have saved so many people hundreds and in many cases thousands of dollars. You should be working with a broker that represents many insurance companies. Make sure you check them out, especially if you are going to allow someone in your house. I recommend meeting in their office. For me we represent most insurance carriers in our area and carrying all their literature with me is almost impossible. We use three large screens so that our clients can clearly see and compare the differences between the plans. The minimum information always needed is all your doctors, medications: names, milligrams, and dosage. We load your current plan and then compare it to all the other companies in your area. What companies have all your doctors, the price for your medication normally makes a significant difference. Then the Extra Value is what is most important to you. We do NOT CHARGE for your review and if warranted to change your insurance plan. Ethics is most important and if you are on the best plan we will tell you, plus you can see for yourself. If your plan was CANCELLED/DROPPED for 2027, you have a guaranteed issue into a Medigap/Medicare Supplement. This is huge and very important, know your options!Medicare Seminars they are good for general information. A one-to-one appointment where you can dive into your doctors and medication is best, plus you can then compare other companies in one place. Medicare Part D most insurance carriers have taken away insurance agents ability to help you with your Part D Only drug plans this does not apply to most Advantage plans, standalone drug plans as well as Advantage Plans, you wont have to pay more than $2,400 in out-of-pocket drug costs, which include deductibles, co-pays, coinsurance. It is especially important to check your plans formulary as medication must be in formulary to be capped. 2027 RX deductible will be capped at $715.00. As a reminder the cost of the plan is not as important as the cost plus your medications, that is what you look at, the total cost. It is important to know what the medication is used for to determine if it is covered by the plan. Example Wycovy may be covered but to be covered it must be used for certain heart conditions or diabetes, Medicare does not cover weight lose medications at this time. As a reminder if you choose NOT to ENROLL in a Part D drug plan and in later years you want one you will have to wait for Annual Enrollment and then you will assed a penalty for every month you did not have a drug plan, that penalty will last for the REST OF YOUR LIFE! When you turn 65 you are eligible for Medicare, once you have worked 40 quarters roughly 10 years there is no cost for Medicare Part A. Part A covers Hospitals, Skilled Nursing, Home Health & Hospice. Medicare Part B you can choose to take at 65, or you can hold off if you are still working and have credible coverage. If you do not have group health insurance that is considered qualified, and then you want Medicare you would have a late enrollment penalty for each month you did not have Part B & Part D, and that penalty will last for the rest of your life. Part B covers doctors, imaging, blood work, ambulance, durable medical equipment, etc. Part D is a Medicare Drug Plan and covers medications. During your initial enrollment period it is especially important to understand your options! Medicare Supplements/Medigap Plans are NOT guaranteed issues; you may need to medically qualify. You can purchase a Medigap Plan during your 1st 6 months on Medicare Part B without medical underwriting. There are a lot of things you need to know. Again, work with an agent you can trust! Especially important: when you move you need to know your options. Can you keep the same plan? Do you need to make a change and what does that look like? Logical Insurance Solutions is a SWFL Insurance Broker that works with most of the insurance carriers in your area, we are happy to help you through the maze. We offer Free Medicare Seminars, Personal Appointments & Virtual appointments. Please e-mail [email protected] to register or call 239-362-0855 for dates. Medicares website is www.Medicare.gov. www.Logicalinsurance.com 239-362-0855 [email protected] Ulla-Undine Merritt (Dee) National Producer Number (NPN) 8853366
One of the most important decisions families can make as their loved one's age is when to begin exploring senior living options. Too often, the conversation doesnt happen until a crisis occursa fall, hospitalization, medication concern, caregiver burnout, or sudden change in care needs.At that point, families may feel overwhelmed and pressured to make a major decision quickly. Instead of choosing what truly feels right, they may simply choose what is immediately available.Senior Living Should Be a ChoiceNot a CrisisPlanning ahead gives seniors and their families something incredibly valuable: time.Time to tour communities.Time to ask questions.Time to compare services and costs.Time to meet the team.Time to understand care options.And most importantly, time for the senior to have a voice in the decision.When the decision is made proactively, seniors can participate in choosing where they want to live, what lifestyle appeals to them, and what is important to their daily happiness and independence.Why Families Choose Springwood CourtAt Springwood Court Assisted Living, we believe the transition to senior living should feel like a new beginningnot a response to an emergency.Our goal is to provide a warm, welcoming environment where residents can receive support while continuing to enjoy the things that make life meaningful.With a tenured, experienced team, 24/7 staff presence, engaging activities, chef-prepared meals, housekeeping, outings, and a strong focus on personalized care, Springwood Court strives to create a community where residents feel known, valued, and at home.Our philosophy is simple:The building may be brick and mortar, but the people are what make it a home to thrive! That is why we encourage families to visit us before there is a crisis. Come through the doors. Meet our team. Talk with residents. Ask questions. Learn about our services and how we can support changing needs.Planning Ahead Protects ChoiceExploring senior living early does not mean someone has to move immediately.Sometimes the best first step is simply taking a tour and beginning a conversation. A senior may decide they arent ready todaybut now the family knows their options and has a relationship with a community they trust.That preparation can make an enormous difference when circumstances eventually change.Dont Wait Until There Is No ChoiceA crisis can take away options. Planning creates them.At Springwood Court, we want families to feel comfortable starting the conversation earlywhen there is time to make thoughtful decisions, involve their loved one, and find the right fit.Start the conversation. Take the tour. Ask the questions. Know your options.Because senior living should be about choosing where you want to livenot simply finding somewhere to go when you have nowhere else to turn.Springwood Court Assisted LivingFeel the Difference.The Residents Are Not Our Business. They Are Our Why.
When it comes to choosing a senior living community, finding the right balance of personalized care, wellness, engaging experiences, and comfort is essential. At The Watermark at Marco Island, residents can enjoy a thoughtfully designed lifestyle in a beautiful setting while receiving support tailored to the way they want to live.A Place to Call Home on Marco IslandLocated at 1170 San Marco Road in Marco Island, Florida, The Watermark at Marco Island offers assisted living and memory care in a welcoming residential environment.The community is designed to provide more than just a place to live. Here, personalized care is complemented by opportunities for wellness, enriching daily experiences, social connection, and chef-prepared dining.For seniors and their families, that means having support available while maintaining independence and enjoying the lifestyle that makes each day meaningful.Personalized Care Designed Around YouEvery resident has unique needs, interests, routines, and preferences. The Watermark at Marco Island takes a personalized approach to care, creating support around the individual rather than expecting residents to fit into a one-size-fits-all model.Whether a senior needs assistance with daily activities or specialized support associated with memory care, the goal is to help residents feel comfortable, confident, and engaged in their surroundings.This thoughtful approach allows families to have greater peace of mind while their loved ones enjoy a community designed around their well-being.Wellness and Enriching ExperiencesLife at The Watermark at Marco Island extends beyond care. The community incorporates holistic wellness and enriching daily experiences designed to encourage residents to remain active, connected, and engaged.Common areas provide opportunities to socialize with friends, participate in activities, enjoy hobbies, or simply relax in a comfortable environment. From a game of pool to sharing a meal or spending time with neighbors, residents have opportunities to make each day their own.The emphasis is on supporting the whole personmind, body, and spirit.Dining Made From ScratchGood food is an important part of a fulfilling lifestyle, and dining at The Watermark at Marco Island is designed to be an enjoyable part of each day.Residents can experience chef-prepared meals made from scratch, offering the opportunity to enjoy delicious food while dining in a social and welcoming environment.Meals can be more than simply meeting nutritional needsthey can provide residents with another opportunity to connect, celebrate, and enjoy the pleasures of everyday life.Comfortable ResidencesThe Watermark at Marco Island offers thoughtfully designed residences intended to provide comfort, privacy, and a sense of home.Bright interiors, comfortable furnishings, and inviting living spaces create an environment where residents can settle in and feel at ease. Families can visit and spend quality time with their loved ones in a setting that feels warm and welcoming.The community's design also provides convenient access to shared spaces where residents can socialize and participate in daily activities.See Your Day HereChoosing senior living is a significant decision, and seeing a community in person can make all the difference. A personal visit allows seniors and their families to experience the environment, explore the residences, learn about available care, and get a better understanding of everyday life at the community.The Watermark at Marco Island invites prospective residents and their families to step inside, tour the residences, and picture what their day could look like here.To schedule a personal visit, call 239-999-4601.The Watermark at Marco Island1170 San Marco RoadMarco Island, FL 34145WatermarkMarcoIsland.com
About Healthcare NetworkHealthcare Network provides high-quality, accessible healthcare for every stage of life with specialized services tailored to help seniors maintain their health, independence, and lifestyle.Our Senior Care teams address the unique and often complex needs of adults 65+ through coordinated, compassionate healthcare that supports overall wellbeing. Our collaborative approach integrates physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs to promote the best possible outcomes.Senior Care Services* Include: Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions Medication management Coordinated care for multiple conditions Wellness check-ups Balance and memory screening Immunizations Behavioral health counseling Dental care Infusion treatments X-ray and lab Optometry On-site pharmacy Telehealth*Services vary by locationCaring for the Whole FamilyIn addition to Senior Care, Healthcare Network provides a wide range of services for the entire family, from pediatric care and womens health to walk-in and specialty services.Since 1977, our compassionate care model has been serving the community with a unique, collaborative approach. Your personal healthcare team works together to deliver seamless, comprehensive careregardless of your insurance, income, or job status.We are committed to addressing health disparities and making healthcare more accessible, creating a healthier community for us all. Locations Throughout Collier County: Healthcare Network at Veterans Park1845 Veterans Park Dr., Naples 34109 Healthcare Network Dental Care East1749 Heritage Trl. #801, Naples 34112 Healthcare Network at Friendship Health2355 Stanford Ct., Naples 34112 Healthcare Network at Nichols Community Health Center12655 Collier Blvd., Naples 34116 Healthcare Network at Marion E. Fether Medical Center1454 Madison Ave. W., Immokalee 34142 Healthcare Network at Family Care at iTech508 N. 9th St. #142, Immokalee 34142 Healthcare Network at Community Medical Care Center125 Boston Ave., Immokalee 34142
Healthcare Network is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare to everyone in Collier County, regardless of job, income, or insurance status. Our comprehensive services include children's care, pediatric convenient care, family care, women's care, senior care, dental care, behavioral health, pharmacy, and specialty services.As Southwest Floridas premier patient-centered medical and dental home, our providers work collaboratively as a care team to deliver the highest level of coordinated care for patients of all ages. Since 1977, our private, not-for-profit model has been effective in meeting the healthcare needs of the community. We rely on philanthropic support to ensure we continue to achieve our vision of a community where every person has access to affordable and appropriate healthcare.Healthcare Network is committed to delivering culturally competent care, addressing health disparities, and supporting the overall wellness of our patients. Join us on our mission to make healthcare more accessible and to create a healthier community for all.All Locations:1265 Creekside Pkwy. #206, Naples 34108 1090 6th Ave N. Naples 34102 1845 Veterans Park Dr., Naples 34109 5450 YMCA Rd. #102, Naples 34109 6350 Davis Blvd. #1001, Naples 34104 1749 Heritage Trl. #801 Naples 34104 2355 Stanford Ct., Naples 34112 1454 Madison Ave. W., Immokalee 34142 1441 Heritage Blvd., Immokalee 34142 508 N. 9th St. #142, Immokalee 34142 12655 Collier Blvd. Naples 34116
About Healthcare NetworkHealthcare Network provides high-quality, accessible healthcare for every stage of life with specialized services tailored to help seniors maintain their health, independence, and lifestyle.Our Senior Care teams address the unique and often complex needs of adults 65+ through coordinated, compassionate healthcare that supports overall wellbeing. Our collaborative approach integrates physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs to promote the best possible outcomes.Senior Care Services* Include: Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions Medication management Coordinated care for multiple conditions Wellness check-ups Balance and memory screening Immunizations Behavioral health counseling Dental care Infusion treatments X-ray and lab Optometry On-site pharmacy Telehealth*Services vary by locationCaring for the Whole FamilyIn addition to Senior Care, Healthcare Network provides a wide range of services for the entire family, from pediatric care and womens health to walk-in and specialty services.Since 1977, our compassionate care model has been serving the community with a unique, collaborative approach. Your personal healthcare team works together to deliver seamless, comprehensive careregardless of your insurance, income, or job status.We are committed to addressing health disparities and making healthcare more accessible, creating a healthier community for us all. Locations Throughout Collier County: Healthcare Network at Veterans Park1845 Veterans Park Dr., Naples 34109 Healthcare Network Dental Care East1749 Heritage Trl. #801, Naples 34112 Healthcare Network at Friendship Health2355 Stanford Ct., Naples 34112 Healthcare Network at Nichols Community Health Center12655 Collier Blvd., Naples 34116 Healthcare Network at Marion E. Fether Medical Center1454 Madison Ave. W., Immokalee 34142 Healthcare Network at Family Care at iTech508 N. 9th St. #142, Immokalee 34142 Healthcare Network at Community Medical Care Center125 Boston Ave., Immokalee 34142