# Older Adults Can Skip Three Common Medical Routines
Researchers have identified three medical screenings and treatments that older adults often don't need. The findings challenge routine care practices that may waste time and resources without improving health outcomes.
The first unnecessary procedure involves screening asymptomatic older adults for carotid artery disease. Studies show that finding blockages in people with no symptoms doesn't prevent strokes and exposes patients to risky imaging and potentially harmful interventions.
The second targets routine blood pressure screening in nursing home residents with advanced dementia. Treating high blood pressure in this population doesn't extend life or improve quality of life, yet it burdens patients with daily medications and monitoring.
The third addresses cancer screening in people with limited life expectancy. Screening for breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer in adults expected to live fewer than 5-10 years produces harm without benefit. These tests delay diagnosis of existing cancers and create anxiety without allowing time for treatment to matter.
These recommendations align with the Choosing Wisely campaign, which encourages doctors and patients to question unnecessary tests. The research acknowledges that individual cases may warrant different approaches, but population-level evidence shows these routines typically deliver no value for older patients while consuming healthcare resources.