McGregor PACE Supports Proactive Health Care for Older Men
Raising Awareness During Men’s Health Month
June is Men’s Health Month, and today kickstarts Men’s Health Week. These events exist to shine a spotlight on common men’s health issues and encourage all men to take a proactive approach to their health and wellness—this means seeking out preventive care and undergoing regular screenings for prostate and testicular cancer and other health concerns.
At PACE, every senior receives individualized care from a collaborative group of doctors, nurses, specialists, social workers, and other staff members. Our seniors’ well-being is our central priority, and we help to ensure they have convenient access to the care they need. Unfortunately, not all older adults are in the same position to prioritize their health and well-being with the help of talented and caring medical professionals. This is an issue, particularly for older men. Research like this 2020 article from Northwest Community Healthcare shows that men are not as proactive in taking care of their health as women. That study found that men are:
- 24 percent less likely to visit a doctor within the past year
- More likely to neglect cholesterol tests
- 28 percent more likely to be hospitalized for congestive heart failure
As you may know, prostate cancer is one of the greatest health risks for men. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that out of every 100 American men, about 13 will get prostate cancer during their lifetime—and 2 to 3 will die from the cancer. What can you do to protect you or a loved one from prostate cancer?
- Familiarize yourself with the American Cancer Society’s common Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Cancer. Knowing the signs is key to early diagnosis and treatment.
- Never miss an annual prostate exam or routine medical checkup. If your loved one is unable to schedule and attend these appointments on their own, consider whether they would benefit from the services of the PACE program.
If Men’s Health Month amplifies the concerns you have for your own health or the health of a loved one, it might be time to take action. PACE provides aging services to older adults in Cuyahoga County, allowing them to continue living at home in the community. Through our program, participants receive comprehensive medical care from an interdisciplinary team, easy access to specialists through our adult day center, transportation, and much more. Please contact our team to learn more and take the first steps to determine your or a loved one’s eligibility.