Along with these examinations, most physicians also check the head and neck, skin, thyroid, lymph nodes and abdominal organs for evidence of abnormality. Depression is frequent in midlife and later. Domestic violence may flare up under such circumstances, and warrants special consideration. Infections such as influenza or pneumonia are a frequent cause of illness or death in women of geriatric age. For this reason, preventive vaccinations should be kept up to date.
Tetanus booster is recommended every ten years.
When traveling to foreign lands, appropriate vaccinations should be obtained. Those in close contact with individuals with certain contageous infections should receive special protection. For women and men over the age of 65, pneumonia vaccine and yearly influenza shots are advised. Many health considerations pertain to both sexes and all age groups, such as eating a healthy diet, physical exercise, eliminating tobacco, curtailing alcohol use, minimizing the use of over-the counter medicines, using seat belts, avoiding toxic substances and so on. However, women past middle age clearly have some special health considerations.