Even the healthiest folks need a yearly check-in with their doctor. Your Medicare Advantage plan covers an annual wellness visit (AWV) at no extra cost to you. The AWV is a key time to review the state of your health, go over any illness risks, and set health goals for the coming year.   

Your doctor will review your medications with you. They’ll also ask questions about your physical and mental health. Your answers help your provider uncover any health issues you’re having.  

Use this handy list of some key questions you may be asked. That way you’ll be prepared with answers.  

Looking for a primary care provider? Go to hmsa.com and use Find a Doctor to locate one near you.

1. Do you experience pain or other symptoms that limit any daily activities?  

Your doctor wants to find out if your physical health gets in the way of everyday life. Let them know if you have trouble climbing stairs, running errands, dressing yourself, or doing housework.  

Being honest with your doctor helps them understand how your health or pain affects the activities of your daily life. This way, they can offer a treatment plan that fits your needs. If things change, you can always talk to your doctor again to adjust the plan. 

You might think there’s no point in talking to your doctor about health issues like chronic pain or arthritis because there’s no cure. But talking to your doctor can still help. They can create a treatment plan to manage your symptoms. While it’s not a cure, managing the condition will improve your quality of life.  

2. In the past 30 days, how often did memory problems affect your daily life? 

Are you having memory lapses? Getting lost in familiar places? Tell your doctor. These could be signs of age-related memory and thinking issues.   

Minor lapses such as misplacing your keys or forgetting a bill are generally not cause for concern. However, more serious memory problems can be a sign of conditions like mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Signs of these serious issues can include repeatedly asking the same questions or extreme changes in behavior. 

If you find yourself experiencing problems related to memory or behavior, it’s important to bring it up to your doctor. They can perform tests to help determine the cause of the memory problems and may recommend further evaluation. You may want to bring a loved one or friend to the appointment to help take notes and — with your permission — share additional observations about your memory and behavior with the doctor.  

3. Have you had any bladder problems or leaking in the last six months? 

There are many reasons why older adults might have issues with urinary incontinence or bladder control. Most are treatable, so talk to your doctor about issues such as leaking urine.  

Even though it might feel embarrassing, don’t be shy. Your doctor can help you find solutions, like certain lifestyle changes or medication. 

Did you know HMSA members have access to personalized support to help you manage your health and well-being? Learn more here.

4. How many days a week are you active?

Physical activity is good for you, and you need about 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So, your doctor will want to know what types of exercise you do (such as walking, pickleball, swimming, or biking) and how often.  

Any kind of physical activity is good for your health. Your doctor isn’t trying to make you feel bad if you don’t exercise enough, they just want to know what your habits are.  

It’s important to tell your doctor about any exercise barriers you have. Whether it’s due to health conditions, a busy schedule, or a lack of safe sidewalks in your neighborhood. Your doctor can offer solutions to help you overcome these challenges.  

One solution is the Silver&Fit® Healthy Aging and Exercise Program*, a fitness benefit included with some HMSA Medicare Advantage plans. Check your Evidence of Coverage to find out if you’re eligible. 

Recommended reading: The older adult's guide to getting more active 

Need to find a primary care provider to schedule your next annual wellness visit?

Use Find a Doctor on hmsa.com to search for a participating provider near you today.

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5. In the past 12 months, have you fallen or had balance issues?

Every year, 3 million older adults wind up in the emergency room for fall-related injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s why your doctor wants to know about any fall risks — before you wind up hurting yourself.  

Talking to your doctor about falls is important, even if it feels uncomfortable. Being honest about any falls or fears you have can help keep you safe. Your doctor can check your medicines, suggest exercises to improve your balance and strength, and recommend ways to make your home safer.  

Sources: 
Aging in place: National Institute on Aging  
Chronic pain: Cleveland Clinic 
Arthritis: Arthritis Foundation  
Exercise: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  
Signs of aging vs serious memory issues: Alzheimer’s Society  
Facts about falls: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  
How to talk to your doctor about falls: National Council on Aging  
Yearly “wellness” visits: Medicare.gov  
Preventative screenings and services: Medicare.gov  
Medicare wellness visits: CMS.gov  
Be prepared for your visit: CMS.gov  

*The Silver&Fit® program is provided by American Specialty Health Fitness, Inc., a subsidiary of American Specialty Health (ASH). ASH is an independent specialty health organization, offering musculoskeletal health provider networks and programs, fitness center networks and programs, and well-being solutions on behalf of HMSA. 

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