CVS Health - Fall Into Wellness: Preventive Health Tips for Older Adults, a Q&A With Jean Reidy
Key Highlights
- ➤CVS Health promotes fall preventive-care check-ins for older adults
- ➤Oak Street Health recommends Medicare Annual Wellness Visits for prevention and planning
- ➤Recommended seasonal vaccines include flu, updated COVID-19, shingles, pneumonia and RSV
- ➤Common screenings include colon, breast, prostate and lung cancer checks
- ➤Oak Street Health screens for depression and provides behavioral-health support
Expert Statements
Jean Reidy, Adult Nurse Practitioner at Oak Street Health
“I encourage older adults to think of this time of year as a health check-in. Make sure you're up to date on your Annual Wellness Visit, recommended vaccines and preventive screenings. These appointments can help identify health concerns early and provide a clear plan for staying healthy in the months ahead.”
Jean Reidy, Adult Nurse Practitioner at Oak Street Health
“A Medicare Annual Wellness Visit is focused on prevention and planning for your future health. During the visit, we review your medical history, update your personalized care plan, check important health indicators like blood pressure and screen for concerns such as depression or cognitive changes. It's an opportunity to take a comprehensive look at your health and identify ways to stay well.”
Jean Reidy, Adult Nurse Practitioner at Oak Street Health
“If you haven't already, now is a great time to talk with your health care provider about vaccines that may be recommended for you. That can include an annual flu shot, updated COVID-19 vaccine, and vaccines that help protect against shingles, pneumonia and RSV. Your provider may recommend additional vaccines based on your age, health history and individual needs. Staying current on vaccinations can help reduce the risk of serious illness and complications during the fall and winter months.”
Jean Reidy, Adult Nurse Practitioner at Oak Street Health
“The right screenings depend on a person's age, medical history and risk factors. Common preventive screenings include colon cancer screenings, mammograms, prostate cancer screenings and lung cancer screenings for people with a history of smoking. It's also important not to overlook mental health screenings, particularly as we move into the winter months when some people may experience increased feelings of isolation or depression.”
Jean Reidy, Adult Nurse Practitioner at Oak Street Health
“Mental health deserves just as much attention as physical health. Changes in weather, shorter days and spending less time with friends and family can affect how people feel. That's why it's important to talk openly about changes in mood, energy or interest in activities. At Oak Street Health, we screen patients for depression and have behavioral health specialists who work alongside primary care providers to help connect patients with the support they may need.”
Jean Reidy, Adult Nurse Practitioner at Oak Street Health
“Don't wait until something feels wrong to prioritize your health. Preventive care can help you stay ahead of potential health concerns and give you the resources and support needed to maintain your health and independence. A few simple steps today can make a meaningful difference in the months and years ahead.”
Jean Reidy, Adult Nurse Practitioner at Oak Street Health
“To learn more or find a location near you, visit OakStreetHealth.com. You can also stop by a local center, meet the care team and learn more about how Oak Street Health supports patients year-round.”
WOONSOCKET, RI / ACCESS Newswire / October 9, 2026 / CVS Health
As the weather cools and the year begins to wind down, fall is a good time for older adults to check in on their health. From scheduling recommended screenings to staying up to date on vaccines, preventive care can help identify potential health concerns early and support better health through the winter months and beyond.
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