Blood tests doctors commonly order for adults over 60
This guide lists blood tests that doctors commonly order for adults over 60, with what each one measures and how to prepare. It is general information. Which tests are right for you depends on your health and history, so ask a doctor.
Zavis shows a lab test price only where the lab or service publishes it on its own website, which 6 of the 13 it lists do. Each test page gives the listed prices with their sources.
Quick facts
Labs listed on Zavis
13
Labs listing home collection
10
Tests in this guide
11
How to use this list
The tests below are a reference list. Whether a test is useful for you depends on your symptoms, your family history and any conditions you already have, so not every test applies to every person.
A doctor can advise whether and how often to test, and can explain what a result means for you.
Preparing for the tests
In the Zavis test directory, Lipid Panel is listed as needing fasting. CBC, KFT, LFT, HbA1c, TSH, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, CRP, BNP and PSA are listed as not needing it. Ask the lab how to prepare if you are unsure.
Finding a lab
13 labs are listed in the Zavis lab section. 10 of them say in their profiles that they offer home sample collection, where a nurse or phlebotomist visits to take the sample. Ask the lab whether it offers the tests you need before you book.
Tests doctors commonly order for adults over 60
What each test measures and how to prepare, from the Zavis test directory.
CBC
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, haemoglobin, haematocrit, and platelets.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
KFT
Panel measuring creatinine, BUN, eGFR, uric acid, and electrolytes to assess kidney health.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
LFT
Panel measuring ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, bilirubin, albumin, and total protein to assess liver health.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
Lipid Panel
Measures total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and VLDL.
Fasting is required. Sample type: blood.
HbA1c
Measures average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. Key test for diabetes diagnosis and monitoring.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
TSH
Primary screening test for thyroid function. Elevated TSH suggests hypothyroidism; low TSH suggests hyperthyroidism.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
Vitamin D
Measures 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
Vitamin B12
Measures B12 levels essential for nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
CRP
Measures inflammation marker linked to cardiovascular disease risk.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
BNP
Measures brain natriuretic peptide to assess heart failure risk and severity.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
PSA
Screens for prostate cancer. Elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer, BPH, or prostatitis.
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
Frequently asked questions
Which blood tests do doctors commonly order for adults over 60?
Tests doctors commonly order for adults over 60 include CBC, KFT, LFT, Lipid Panel, HbA1c, TSH, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, CRP, BNP and PSA. A doctor can advise which of these are right for you.
Do these blood tests need fasting?
In the Zavis test directory, Lipid Panel is listed as needing fasting. CBC, KFT, LFT, HbA1c, TSH, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, CRP, BNP and PSA are listed as not needing it. Ask the lab how to prepare if you are unsure.
How often are these tests repeated?
That depends on your health and history. A doctor can advise whether and how often to test.
Can the sample be collected at home?
10 of the 13 labs listed on Zavis say in their profiles that they offer home sample collection. Ask the lab whether the test you need can be collected at home.
How long do blood test results take?
Turnaround depends on the lab and the test, so ask the lab when your results will be ready.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and is not medical advice. Lab details come from each lab's Zavis profile and can change, so confirm them with the lab. A doctor can advise which tests are right for you.