Age Flags
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Ages 75+: what to watch for

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General information only. Not medical advice and not a substitute for a doctor.

United States Emergency 911 Crisis line 988
United Kingdom Emergency 999 Health advice 111 Crisis line 116 123

Elsewhere, call your local emergency number.

More emergency and crisis numbers

Built from 40 guideline items from government and public health agencies. Sources last checked .

How the body typically changes

  • Bones are usually at their thickest and strongest in early adult life. From around age 35, everyone gradually starts to lose bone, and after menopause falling oestrogen levels can make bone density drop quickly. Source
  • Seeing things up close gets harder for everyone with age, usually after age 45. This normal change, called presbyopia, can mean holding reading material farther away, and it usually stops getting worse after about age 65. Source
  • The prostate starts a second phase of growth around age 25 and keeps growing through life. Non-cancerous enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia) is the most common prostate problem after age 50, and it rarely causes symptoms before age 40. Source
  • Hearing loss becomes more common with age and usually comes on gradually, often in both ears, so it may not be noticed at first. In the United States, about 1 in 3 people aged 65 to 74 have hearing loss, and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Source
  • Cataracts, cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can make vision blurry, hazy or less colourful, are very common with age. Most are caused by normal changes in the eye as people get older, and in the United States more than half of people aged 80 or older have cataracts or have had cataract surgery. Source
  • Muscle and bone mass both decline with age. Muscle mass falls by about 0.5 to 1% a year after age 50 and by about 2 to 4% a year after age 75, and strength can be lost even faster than muscle mass. Source
  • Some changes in memory and thinking are a normal part of ageing, but Alzheimer's disease is not. Alzheimer's, the most common type of dementia, typically affects people aged 60 or older; it develops gradually, beginning with mild memory loss, and over time can make conversation and everyday activities difficult. Source

Main health risks

  • Worldwide, about 33% of adults aged 30 to 79 have high blood pressure (hypertension). Most people with it feel no symptoms, and about 44% of those affected do not know they have it. Source
  • Type 2 diabetes can develop at any age, but it becomes more likely from age 35. Overweight or obesity and a family history of diabetes also raise the risk, while keeping a healthy weight and being physically active may help avoid some risk factors. Source
  • The risk of coronary heart disease rises with age. For men it starts to increase significantly around age 45; women have a lower risk before menopause, and their risk rises more rapidly from around age 55. Source
  • The risk of colorectal (bowel) cancer rises with age: about 93% of cases are found in people aged 45 or older. Low physical activity, excess weight, drinking alcohol and using tobacco may also raise the risk. Source
  • Breast cancer risk rises with age, and most breast cancers are found in women aged 50 or older. A family history of breast cancer, drinking alcohol and not being physically active may also raise the risk. Source
  • Prostate cancer is most common after age 50 and can affect anyone with a prostate. It does not usually cause signs or symptoms at first. Source
  • People aged 65 and older have the highest risk of falling: in England, around a third of people aged 65 and over, and around half of those aged 80 and over, fall at least once a year. Falls can become repeated and cause injuries such as head injuries and hip fractures; muscle weakness, poor balance and poor vision are among the risk factors. Source
  • Dementia, which affects memory, thinking and the ability to carry out daily activities, is more common after age 65, but it is not an inevitable part of ageing. Things linked to a higher risk include high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, hearing and vision loss, smoking, harmful alcohol use, physical inactivity and social isolation. Source
  • People aged 65 and older are at higher risk of serious flu complications than young, healthy adults, partly because immune defences change with age. In the United States, an estimated 70 to 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths and 50 to 70% of flu-related hospital stays in recent years have been in this age group. Source
  • Adults aged 65 or older are at increased risk of pneumonia, and the risk keeps rising with age: someone aged 80 has a higher risk than someone aged 65. Long-term heart, lung or liver disease, diabetes, a weakened immune system, drinking too much alcohol and smoking also raise the risk. Source
  • Worldwide, about 15% of adults aged 70 and over live with a mental health condition, most often anxiety or depression, and these conditions are often under-recognised and under-treated. Social isolation and loneliness, which affect about a quarter of older people, are key risk factors for mental health conditions in later life. Source

Population data

Country Sex Average years left at age 75 Deaths before age 85, per thousand people of this age
United States Women 13.5 318
United States Men 11.8 410
England, UK* Women 13.4 318
England, UK* Men 11.7 413
China Women 11.6 413
China Men 9.1 579
Japan Women 16.2 195
Japan Men 12.5 365
Spain Women 14.8 237
Spain Men 12.2 383
Brazil Women 11.4 424
Brazil Men 9.8 534

Averages for whole populations from the United Nations; they say nothing about any one person. Figures are United Nations estimates for 2023. *UN data covers the whole United Kingdom; the guidelines shown are for England. Source: UN DESA, Population Division (2024), World Population Prospects 2024, CC BY 3.0 IGO; calculated and translated by Age Flags.

Screenings and vaccines by country

Showing: United States · US Preventive Services Task Force · Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US)

US vaccination schedules have changed in recent years; check the current schedule on the CDC website. CDC immunization schedules Congressional Research Service overview

Starting in this age range

Screening tests

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Hepatitis C antibody blood test (a positive result is confirmed with a PCR test)
Hepatitis C screening		 ages 18 to 79 once · Most adults need to be screened only once; people with continued risk (for example, past or current injection drug use) should be screened periodically. US Preventive Services Task Force · Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Adolescents and Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
Blood pressure measurement
Blood pressure check		 age 18 and over Suggested intervals: every year from age 40 and for adults at increased risk; every 3 to 5 years for adults aged 18 to 39 who are not at increased risk and had a normal reading before. US Preventive Services Task Force · Hypertension in Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade A
MyHealthfinder: Get Your Blood Pressure Checked
Tuberculosis infection test (skin test or blood test)
Latent tuberculosis (TB) infection screening		 age 18 and over; At increased risk of tuberculosis, for example born in or a former resident of a country where TB is common, or living or having lived in a homeless shelter or correctional facility As set out in the source US Preventive Services Task Force · Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
MyHealthfinder: Testing for Latent Tuberculosis: Questions for the Doctor
Depression screening questionnaire (such as the Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ)
Depression screening		 age 19 and over Includes pregnant and postpartum people and older adults. US Preventive Services Task Force · Depression and Suicide Risk in Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
Stool test, or a test that looks inside the bowel (colonoscopy, CT colonography or sigmoidoscopy)
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening		 ages 50 to 75 High-sensitivity guaiac stool test (gFOBT) or faecal immunochemical test (FIT) — every year · Multitarget stool DNA test with FIT (sDNA-FIT) · CT colonography — every 5 years · Flexible sigmoidoscopy — every 5 years · Flexible sigmoidoscopy, plus a FIT stool test every year — every 10 years · Colonoscopy — every 10 years · Stool DNA-FIT is repeated every 1 to 3 years. US Preventive Services Task Force · Colorectal Cancer: Screening ·
USPSTF grade A
MyHealthfinder: Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer
Low-dose CT scan of the chest (LDCT)
Lung cancer screening		 ages 50 to 80; Heavy smoking history, and currently smokes or quit recently (see the note for the thresholds) every year · For people with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years who smoke now or quit within the past 15 years; screening stops once a person has not smoked for 15 years. US Preventive Services Task Force · Lung Cancer: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
MyHealthfinder: Lung Cancer Screening: Questions for the Doctor
Ultrasound scan of the abdomen
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening		 Men; ages 65 to 75; Has ever smoked (commonly defined as having smoked a hundred or more cigarettes) once US Preventive Services Task Force · Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
MyHealthfinder: Talk with Your Doctor About Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Bone density scan (DXA), with or without a fracture risk assessment
Osteoporosis screening (bone density)		 Women; age 65 and over As set out in the source US Preventive Services Task Force · Osteoporosis to Prevent Fractures: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
MyHealthfinder: Get a Bone Density Test

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Flu vaccine (any type suitable for age and health)
Flu vaccination		 age 19 and over every year · From age 65, a high-dose, recombinant or adjuvanted flu vaccine is preferred. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Ages 19 to 49 Years)
Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1)
Recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix)
Shingles vaccination		 age 19 and over; Has an immunocompromising condition (including HIV) Two doses, given 2 to 6 months apart. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
Shingles Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers)
Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1)
Tetanus and diphtheria booster (Td or Tdap)
Diphtheria and tetanus vaccination		 age 19 and over every 10 years · Adults who did not get Tdap at age 10 or older get one dose of Tdap first. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Ages 19 to 49 Years)
MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Age 50 Years or Older)
Pertussis Vaccination Recommendations (for healthcare providers)
Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1)
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15, PCV20 or PCV21)
Pneumococcal vaccination		 age 50 and over For adults who have not had a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (or whose history is unknown): one dose; with one of the vaccine options, a dose of a second pneumococcal vaccine follows at least 1 year later (see the CDC notes). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
Pneumococcal Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers)
Recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix)
Shingles vaccination		 age 50 and over Two doses, given 2 to 6 months apart. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Age 50 Years or Older)
Shingles Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers)
Hepatitis B vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccination		 age 60 and over; Has a risk factor for hepatitis B infection (for example chronic liver disease, HIV, sexual or blood exposure risk, current or recent injection drug use, incarceration, or travel to countries where hepatitis B is common) Adults aged 60 or older without known risk factors may also get the vaccine, and should if they ask for it. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Protect Yourself from Hepatitis B
RSV vaccine
RSV vaccination		 age 75 and over A single dose; additional doses are not recommended. Best given in late summer or early fall. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1)

No national health check programme item for United States in this age range could be verified automatically.

Showing: England, UK · UK Health Security Agency

Items for the United Kingdom cover England only.

Starting in this age range

No national screening item for England, UK in this age range could be verified automatically.

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix)
Shingles vaccination		 age 18 and over; Severely weakened immune system (as defined in the UK Green Book) Two doses, given 8 weeks to 6 months apart. UK Health Security Agency · Shingles immunisation programme ·
National programme
Shingles vaccine
Inactivated flu vaccine (injection)
Flu vaccination		 age 65 and over every year UK Health Security Agency · Complete routine immunisation schedule ·
National programme
Flu vaccine
National flu immunisation programme 2026 to 2027 letter
Pneumococcal vaccine (PPV23, or PCV20 once PPV23 stock runs out)
Pneumococcal vaccination		 age 65 and over once · A single dose, offered on or soon after the 65th birthday. UK Health Security Agency · Pneumococcal vaccination for older adults and for individuals in a clinical risk group: information for healthcare practitioners ·
National programme
Pneumococcal vaccine
Complete routine immunisation schedule from 1 September 2026
Recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix)
Shingles vaccination		 ages 70 to 79 Two doses, given 6 to 12 months apart. UK Health Security Agency · Shingles immunisation programme ·
National programme
Shingles vaccine
Complete routine immunisation schedule from 1 September 2026
COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination		 age 75 and over Offered in the seasonal autumn and spring campaigns; people who turn 75 before the autumn campaign ends are included. UK Health Security Agency · COVID-19 vaccination programme: information for healthcare practitioners ·
National programme
COVID-19 vaccine
JCVI statement on COVID-19 vaccination in autumn 2026 and spring 2027
RSV vaccine
RSV vaccination		 age 75 and over A single dose; there is no upper age limit. UK Health Security Agency · RSV vaccination of older adults: information for healthcare practitioners ·
National programme
RSV vaccine
Complete routine immunisation schedule from 1 September 2026

No national health check programme item for England, UK in this age range could be verified automatically.

Showing: China · National Health and Family Planning Commission (China) · Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Screening tests

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Blood pressure measurement
Blood pressure check		 age 35 and over every year · A free check offered to permanent residents by primary care facilities under the National Basic Public Health Services. National Health and Family Planning Commission (China) · 国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)· 高血压患者健康管理服务规范 ·
National programme
国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)（国家卫生计生委 2017年2月）— 卢氏县人民政府网站转载 PDF
国家卫生计生委公报 2017年第3期（收录国卫基层发〔2017〕13号通知正文，附件略）

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Seasonal flu vaccine (inactivated or live attenuated)
Flu vaccination		 from 6 months every year · Priority groups are health workers, people aged 60 and over, people with chronic conditions, care-home residents and staff, children aged 6 months to under 5 years, carers of babies under 6 months and pregnant women. Children under 9 years having their first inactivated vaccine need two doses at least 4 weeks apart. Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention · 中国流感疫苗预防接种技术指南(2026—2027) ·
Technical guideline
中国流感疫苗预防接种技术指南(2026—2027)（发布页）

Health check programmes

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Health check for older people (health assessment, physical examination and basic tests)
National health check programme		 age 65 and over every year · A free check for permanent residents at primary care facilities, covering a lifestyle and health assessment, physical examination, basic tests and health advice. National Health and Family Planning Commission (China) · 国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)· 老年人健康管理服务规范 ·
National programme
国家基本公共服务标准(2023年版)
国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)（国家卫生计生委 2017年2月）— 卢氏县人民政府网站转载 PDF
国家卫生计生委公报 2017年第3期（收录国卫基层发〔2017〕13号通知正文，附件略）

Showing: Japan · Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan)

In Japan, cancer screening is carried out by municipalities.

Screening tests

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Cervical cytology or HPV-only test
Cervical cancer screening		 Women; age 20 and over Cervical cytology (smear test) — every 2 years (age 20 and over) · HPV-only test (with cytology triage if positive) — every 5 years (age 30 and over) · From age 30 each municipality offers either cytology or HPV-only testing (the person cannot choose); screening is particularly recommended at ages 20 to 69 with cytology and 30 to 60 with HPV-only testing. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針 ·
National guideline
がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス）
がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知）
The publisher has listed a newer edition, which applies from a later date. Source
Mammogram (breast X-ray)
Breast cancer screening		 Women; age 40 and over every 2 years · Screening is particularly recommended for women aged 40 to 69. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針 ·
National guideline
がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス）
がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知）
The publisher has listed a newer edition, which applies from a later date. Source
Faecal immunochemical test (two-day sample)
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening		 age 40 and over every year · Screening is particularly recommended for people aged 40 to 69. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針 ·
National guideline
がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス）
がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知）
The publisher has listed a newer edition, which applies from a later date. Source
Chest X-ray
Lung cancer screening		 age 40 and over every year · Screening is particularly recommended for people aged 40 to 69. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針 ·
National guideline
がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス）
がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知）
The publisher has listed a newer edition, which applies from a later date. Source
Stomach X-ray (barium) or gastroscopy
Stomach cancer screening		 age 50 and over every 2 years · Stomach X-ray (barium meal) — every 2 years (age 50 and over) · Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) — every 2 years (age 50 and over) · For the time being, municipalities may also offer the barium X-ray from age 40 and once a year; screening is particularly recommended for people aged 50 to 69. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針 ·
National guideline
がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス）
がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知）
The publisher has listed a newer edition, which applies from a later date. Source

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Shingles vaccine (live or recombinant)
Shingles vaccination		 the fiscal year you turn 65; Also, until : people turning 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 Either one dose of the live vaccine or two doses of the recombinant vaccine. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 定期接種実施要領 ·
Set by law
予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号）
帯状疱疹ワクチン（厚生労働省）
COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination		 age 65 and over every year · One dose each year during a period set by each municipality between October and March. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 定期接種実施要領 ·
Set by law
予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号）
新型コロナワクチンについて（厚生労働省）
Flu vaccine (influenza HA vaccine)
Flu vaccination		 age 65 and over every year Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 定期接種実施要領 ·
Set by law
予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号）
インフルエンザワクチン(高齢者)（厚生労働省）

No national health check programme item for Japan in this age range could be verified automatically.

Showing: Spain · Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (Spain) · Public Health Commission of the Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (Spain)

No national screening item for Spain in this age range could be verified automatically.

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Flu vaccine (any type suitable for age and health)
Flu vaccination		 age 60 and over One dose in each flu season. Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (Spain) · Calendario común de vacunación e inmunización a lo largo de toda la vida. Calendario recomendado año 2026 ·
National programme
Recomendaciones de vacunación frente a la gripe. Temporada 2026-2027, España (Comisión de Salud Pública, 14 de mayo de 2026)
Vacunas y Programa de Vacunación — Gripe (Ministerio de Sanidad, ciudadanía)
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
Pneumococcal vaccination		 age 65 and over As set out in the source Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (Spain) · Calendario común de vacunación e inmunización a lo largo de toda la vida. Calendario recomendado año 2026 ·
National programme
Vacunas y Programa de Vacunación — Enfermedad neumocócica invasiva (Ministerio de Sanidad, ciudadanía)
COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination		 age 70 and over Recommendation for the 2026–2027 season; the age group is set again for each season. Public Health Commission of the Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (Spain) · Recomendaciones de vacunación frente a COVID-19 2026-2027, España ·
National programme
Calendario común de vacunación e inmunización a lo largo de toda la vida. Calendario recomendado año 2026 (aprobado por el CISNS el 12 de diciembre de 2025)

No national health check programme item for Spain in this age range could be verified automatically.

Showing: Brazil · Ministério da Saúde (Brazil)

Starting in this age range

No national screening item for Brazil in this age range could be verified automatically.

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Hepatitis B vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccination		 age 7 and over Anyone without 3 recorded doses starts or completes the course, with the second dose 1 month and the third 6 months after the first. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
dT vaccine (adult-type tetanus and diphtheria)
Diphtheria and tetanus vaccination		 age 14 and over every 10 years · The first booster is at age 14, after the childhood DTP doses; the interval is shortened to 5 years if there is a risk of tetanus or diphtheria exposure. Anyone from age 7 without 3 previous doses starts or completes the course first. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination		 age 60 and over every 6 months · Regardless of how many doses were received before. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
Inactivated flu vaccine (injection)
Flu vaccination		 age 60 and over every year Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20)
Pneumococcal vaccination		 age 85 and over One dose for older people not previously vaccinated. People aged 60 to 84 who are bedridden or live in an institution (such as a care home) are also offered it. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme

No national health check programme item for Brazil in this age range could be verified automatically.

How countries compare

Each country bases its guidelines on its own evidence reviews and health system. Age Flags lists them side by side and does not judge between them.

Item United States England, UK China Japan Spain Brazil
Blood pressure check
age 18 and over
 —
age 35 and over
every year
 — — —
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening
ages 50 to 75
 — —
age 40 and over
every year
 — —
COVID-19 vaccination —
age 75 and over
 —
age 65 and over
every year
age 70 and over
age 60 and over
every 6 months
Diphtheria and tetanus vaccination
age 19 and over
every 10 years
 Combined vaccines that also cover this may be listed in the country's full schedule: England, UK — — —
age 14 and over
every 10 years
Hepatitis B vaccination
age 60 and over; Has a risk factor for hepatitis B infection (for example chronic liver disease, HIV, sexual or blood exposure risk, current or recent injection drug use, incarceration, or travel to countries where hepatitis B is common)
 Combined vaccines that also cover this may be listed in the country's full schedule: England, UK — — —
age 7 and over
Flu vaccination
age 19 and over
every year
age 65 and over
every year
from 6 months
every year
age 65 and over
every year
age 60 and over
age 60 and over
every year
Lung cancer screening
ages 50 to 80; Heavy smoking history, and currently smokes or quit recently (see the note for the thresholds)
every year
 — —
age 40 and over
every year
 — —
Pneumococcal vaccination
age 50 and over
age 65 and over
once
 — —
age 65 and over
age 85 and over
RSV vaccination
age 75 and over
age 75 and over
 — — — —
Shingles vaccination
age 50 and over
age 19 and over; Has an immunocompromising condition (including HIV)
ages 70 to 79
age 18 and over; Severely weakened immune system (as defined in the UK Green Book)
 —
the fiscal year you turn 65; Also, until : people turning 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100
 — —

Everyday health

  • UK guidelines for people over 18 advise not regularly drinking more than 14 units of alcohol a week and, for those who drink that much, spreading it over 3 or more days. Staying within this keeps risks low but does not make drinking safe. (England, UK) Source
  • WHO guidance is for everyone older than 10 to aim for at least 400 grams of fruit and vegetables and at least 25 grams of naturally occurring fibre a day, and for adults to keep salt below 5 grams a day. Source
  • Guidelines for adults aged 65 and over advise being physically active every day, doing at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity for those already active), doing activities that improve strength, balance and flexibility on at least 2 days a week, and breaking up long periods of sitting or lying down. Source
  • Adults aged 65 and older need 7 to 8 hours of sleep a day. Source
  • Japan's sleep guide notes that for older people, long hours in bed carry health risks. It advises getting the sleep you need while keeping time in bed below 8 hours, improving how rested sleep leaves you through daily habits and the bedroom environment, and avoiding long daytime naps. (Japan) Source
  • Undernutrition is not uncommon in older age and is an important cause of frailty. Advice on Japan's health ministry website stresses enough protein to keep muscle: 3 regular meals a day, each with protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, dairy or soy, plus staple foods such as rice, bread or noodles for energy, and regular physical activity. Source
  • Loneliness can affect people of any age, but older people are particularly at risk if they live alone or do not have regular contact with others. Things that may help include keeping in touch with friends or family by phone or video call, joining local groups, classes or community activities, starting small conversations, inviting someone over and volunteering. Source

If your ancestry or background is…

South Asian · Chinese · Other Asian · Middle Eastern · Black African or African Caribbean

NICE (UK) guidance says people with a South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean background tend to carry more fat around the abdomen and face weight-related risks at a lower BMI. For adults it uses lower thresholds: overweight from 23 to 27.4, obesity from 27.5 or above.

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) · England, UK · Source

Black African or African Caribbean

NHS (UK) advice lists coming from a Black African or African Caribbean ethnic background among the things that may raise the chance of getting prostate cancer, along with being over 50 and having a family history of it. It suggests speaking to a GP if you are worried about your risk, even if you have no symptoms.

NHS England · Source

Black adults

USPSTF (US) guidance notes that Black adults have the highest colorectal cancer rates and death rates, and that evidence points to unequal access to and quality of screening and treatment, not genetic differences, as the main cause. It recommends that everyone, including Black adults, start screening at age 45, and urges clinicians to ensure Black patients get recommended screening and follow-up.

US Preventive Services Task Force · Source

Fair skin types

USPSTF (US) guidance says people with fair skin types (pale skin, light hair and eye colour, freckles, or skin that sunburns easily) are at higher risk of skin cancer. It recommends counselling people aged 6 months to 24 years, and parents of young children, about limiting exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and selectively offering this counselling to adults older than 24.

US Preventive Services Task Force · Source

Born in, or with parents from, a region where hepatitis B is more common

CDC (US) guidelines list people born in regions where hepatitis B infection prevalence is 2% or more among those at increased risk, and recommend testing them, regardless of age, if they may have been susceptible to infection. The same applies to people born in the United States who were not vaccinated as infants and whose parents were born in regions where prevalence is 8% or more.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Source

African American

NEI (US) health information lists being African American and over age 40 among the factors that raise the risk of glaucoma, along with having a family history of it. It says people at higher risk need a comprehensive dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years, and suggests asking a doctor how often to get checked.

National Eye Institute (US National Institutes of Health) · Source

Hispanic/Latino

NEI (US) health information lists being over age 60 among the factors that raise the risk of glaucoma, especially for people who are Hispanic/Latino. It says people at higher risk need a comprehensive dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years, and suggests asking a doctor how often to get checked.

National Eye Institute (US National Institutes of Health) · Source

East Asian

The MHLW (Japan) drinking guideline, mainly for adults aged 20 and over, says that in East Asia a number of people have a weak enzyme for breaking down alcohol and may flush red when they drink; about 41% of people in Japan are thought to react this way. It warns that long-term drinking greatly raises their risk of mouth and oesophageal cancer, even once it stops feeling unpleasant.

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · Source

Ancestry is a population-level stand-in for risk factors, not a biological cause. Your own situation is for your doctor to judge.

When to see a doctor

  • Sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face, weakness or numbness in one arm, or slurred or confused speech can be signs of a stroke, which is an emergency: call your local emergency number straight away, even if the symptoms stop after a short time. A stroke can happen at any age. Source
  • Chest pain that feels crushing or squeezing, possibly spreading to the arm, neck or jaw, along with shortness of breath, feeling sick or sweating, can be signs of a heart attack, which needs emergency treatment: call your local emergency number straight away. Source
  • A lump or swelling in the testicles, a change in their shape or feel, or aching that does not go away is a reason to see a GP; most lumps are not serious. Sudden, severe testicle pain needs emergency care. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • NHS advice is that any bleeding from the vagina after menopause is checked by a GP, even if it is only a small amount or has happened once; it is not usually serious but can be a sign of cancer. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • Difficulty peeing or needing to pee more often, which are common with an enlarged prostate after age 50, are reasons to see a GP; blood in your pee, pain when peeing or not being able to pee at all need urgent advice. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • Very high blood pressure (usually 180/120 or higher) can cause severe headache, chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, blurred vision or confusion; these symptoms together with high blood pressure need care straight away. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • Memory can be affected by stress, tiredness and illness, but becoming more and more forgetful, especially after age 65, or memory loss that affects daily life or worries you or someone close to you, is a reason to talk to a GP or other health care provider. Source
  • If an older person falls and hits their head, seeing a doctor straight away to check for a brain injury is advised. Falling once doubles the chance of falling again, yet fewer than half of older people who fall tell their doctor. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • Losing a lot of weight without trying over the past 3 to 6 months is a reason to see a GP. People aged 65 and over are particularly at risk of malnutrition, and weight loss is not an inevitable part of growing older. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • People aged 65 and older are at higher risk of serious flu complications. In adults, warning signs that need medical care right away include trouble breathing, ongoing chest pain or pressure, ongoing dizziness or confusion, being hard to wake, seizures, not peeing and severe weakness. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • Sudden confusion (delirium), such as not being able to think or speak clearly, not knowing where you are, or struggling to pay attention or remember things, needs medical help immediately: go to an emergency department or call your local emergency number. It has many possible causes, and infections such as urinary tract infections are a common cause in older people. Source

If you are worried about a symptom, contact a doctor or your local health service. In an emergency, call the emergency number for your country.

Common questions

Which items start in this age range in the United States?

For example: RSV vaccine. Guideline: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US). Who it is for: age 75 and over. How often / doses: A single dose; additional doses are not recommended. Best given in late summer or early fall.

Which items start in this age range in England?

For example: RSV vaccine. Guideline: UK Health Security Agency. Who it is for: age 75 and over. How often / doses: A single dose; there is no upper age limit.

Sources

  1. Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Adolescents and Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  2. Hypertension in Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  3. MyHealthfinder: Get Your Blood Pressure Checked · Checked:
  4. Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  5. MyHealthfinder: Testing for Latent Tuberculosis: Questions for the Doctor · Checked:
  6. Depression and Suicide Risk in Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  7. Colorectal Cancer: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  8. MyHealthfinder: Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer · Checked:
  9. Lung Cancer: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  10. MyHealthfinder: Lung Cancer Screening: Questions for the Doctor · Checked:
  11. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  12. MyHealthfinder: Talk with Your Doctor About Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm · Checked:
  13. Osteoporosis to Prevent Fractures: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  14. MyHealthfinder: Get a Bone Density Test · Checked:
  15. Adult Immunization Schedule Notes (Recommendations for Ages 19 Years or Older, United States) · Checked:
  16. MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Ages 19 to 49 Years) · Checked:
  17. Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1) · Checked:
  18. Shingles Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers) · Checked:
  19. MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Age 50 Years or Older) · Checked:
  20. Pertussis Vaccination Recommendations (for healthcare providers) · Checked:
  21. Pneumococcal Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers) · Checked:
  22. MyHealthfinder: Protect Yourself from Hepatitis B · Checked:
  23. Shingles immunisation programme: information for healthcare practitioners · Checked:
  24. Shingles vaccine · Checked:
  25. Complete routine immunisation schedule from 1 September 2026 · Checked:
  26. Flu vaccine · Checked:
  27. National flu immunisation programme 2026 to 2027 letter · Checked:
  28. Pneumococcal vaccination for older adults and for individuals in a clinical risk group: information for healthcare practitioners · Checked:
  29. Pneumococcal vaccine · Checked:
  30. COVID-19 vaccination programme: information for healthcare practitioners · Checked:
  31. COVID-19 vaccine · Checked:
  32. JCVI statement on COVID-19 vaccination in autumn 2026 and spring 2027 · Checked:
  33. RSV vaccination of older adults: information for healthcare practitioners · Checked:
  34. RSV vaccine · Checked:
  35. 国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)（国卫基层发〔2017〕13号附件，国家卫生计生委 2017年2月） · Checked:
  36. 国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)（国家卫生计生委 2017年2月）— 卢氏县人民政府网站转载 PDF · Checked:
  37. 国家卫生计生委公报 2017年第3期（收录国卫基层发〔2017〕13号通知正文，附件略） · Checked:
  38. 中国流感疫苗预防接种技术指南(2026—2027) · Checked:
  39. 中国流感疫苗预防接种技术指南(2026—2027)（发布页） · Checked:
  40. 国家基本公共服务标准(2023年版) · Checked:
  41. がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針（令和7年12月24日一部改正） · Checked:
  42. がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス） · Checked:
  43. がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知） · Checked:
  44. 定期接種実施要領（厚生労働省健康・生活衛生局長通知別添） · Checked:
  45. 予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号） · Checked:
  46. 帯状疱疹ワクチン（厚生労働省） · Checked:
  47. 新型コロナワクチンについて（厚生労働省） · Checked:
  48. インフルエンザワクチン(高齢者)（厚生労働省） · Checked:
  49. Calendario común de vacunación e inmunización a lo largo de toda la vida. Calendario recomendado año 2026 (aprobado por el CISNS el 12 de diciembre de 2025) · Checked:
  50. Recomendaciones de vacunación frente a la gripe. Temporada 2026-2027, España (Comisión de Salud Pública, 14 de mayo de 2026) · Checked:
  51. Vacunas y Programa de Vacunación — Gripe (Ministerio de Sanidad, ciudadanía) · Checked:
  52. Vacunas y Programa de Vacunación — Enfermedad neumocócica invasiva (Ministerio de Sanidad, ciudadanía) · Checked:
  53. Recomendaciones de vacunación frente a COVID-19 2026-2027, España (Comisión de Salud Pública, 11 de junio de 2026; actualizado septiembre 2026) · Checked:
  54. Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 (Ministério da Saúde, DPNI/SVSA) · Checked:
  55. Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde) · Checked:
  56. NHS: Osteoporosis causes · Checked:
  57. NEI: Presbyopia · Checked:
  58. NIDDK: Prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia) · Checked:
  59. NIDCD: Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) · Checked:
  60. NEI: Cataracts · Checked:
  61. GOV.UK (PHE): Strength and balance quality markers - supporting improvement through audit · Checked:
  62. CDC: About Alzheimer's disease · Checked:
  63. WHO fact sheet: Hypertension · Checked:
  64. NIDDK: Risk factors for type 2 diabetes · Checked:
  65. NHLBI: Coronary heart disease risk factors · Checked:
  66. CDC: Colorectal cancer risk factors · Checked:
  67. CDC: Breast cancer risk factors · Checked:
  68. NHS: What is prostate cancer? · Checked:
  69. GOV.UK (OHID): Falls: applying All Our Health · Checked:
  70. WHO fact sheet: Dementia · Checked:
  71. CDC: Flu and people 65 years and older · Checked:
  72. CDC: Pneumonia risk factors · Checked:
  73. WHO fact sheet: Mental health of older adults · Checked:
  74. nidirect (Northern Ireland government): Alcohol units · Checked:
  75. WHO fact sheet: Healthy diet · Checked:
  76. NHS: Physical activity guidelines for older adults · Checked:
  77. CDC: About sleep · Checked:
  78. 厚生労働省:健康づくりのための睡眠ガイド2023 · Checked:
  79. e-ヘルスネット:高齢者の低栄養予防 · Checked:
  80. NHS: Loneliness in older people · Checked:
  81. NHS: Stroke symptoms · Checked:
  82. NHS: Heart attack symptoms · Checked:
  83. NHS: Testicular lumps and swellings · Checked:
  84. NHS: Postmenopausal bleeding · Checked:
  85. NHS: Benign prostate enlargement · Checked:
  86. NHS: What is dementia? · Checked:
  87. CDC: Older adult falls data · Checked:
  88. NHS: Malnutrition · Checked:
  89. CDC: Signs and symptoms of flu · Checked:
  90. NHS: Sudden confusion (delirium) · Checked:
  91. NICE NG246 Overweight and obesity management: Identifying and assessing overweight, obesity and central adiposity · Checked:
  92. NHS: Causes of prostate cancer · Checked:
  93. Skin Cancer Prevention: Behavioral Counseling (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  94. Screening and Testing for Hepatitis B Virus Infection: CDC Recommendations — United States, 2023 (MMWR Recomm Rep 72(1)) · Checked:
  95. NEI: Glaucoma · Checked:
  96. 健康に配慮した飲酒に関するガイドライン（厚生労働省） · Checked:

Material adapted from the US Preventive Services Task Force has not been reviewed or endorsed by AHRQ or HHS.

Source: website of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan (the pages listed above), adapted by Age Flags.

Figures are restated from the publishers listed above; the original guidelines remain theirs. Some content contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Adapted content has not been reviewed or endorsed by the original publishers.

Emergency and crisis lines

United States Emergency 911 Emergency services (United States) · Source Crisis line 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (United States) · Available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. · Source
United Kingdom Emergency 999 NHS England · Source Health advice 111 NHS England · Source Crisis line 116 123 Samaritans · Open 24 hours a day. · Source
China Emergency 120 National Health Commission (China) · Source Crisis line 12356 National Health Commission (China) · Each line provides at least 18 hours of service a day under the national notice; hours vary by city. · Source
Japan Emergency 119 Fire and Disaster Management Agency (Japan) · Source Crisis line 0120‑061‑338 #いのちSOS (Lifelink) · Open 24 hours a day, every day (free call). · Source Crisis line 0120‑279‑338 Yorisoi Hotline · Open 24 hours a day (free call). · Source
Spain Emergency 112 Emergency services (Spain) · Source Crisis line 024 Ministerio de Sanidad (Spain) · Free and confidential, 24 hours a day, every day of the year. · Source
Brazil Emergency 192 Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Source Crisis line 188 CVV — Centro de Valorização da Vida · Free, 24 hours a day, anywhere in Brazil. · Source

Elsewhere, call your local emergency number.