By Mark Kruzel, MD, Medical Director, questhealth.com
As Americans live longer and take greater ownership over their health, the conversation around preventive care is evolving. People are no longer waiting for symptoms to signal something’s wrong—they want to stay ahead of the curve. New tools, more accessible testing, and greater health literacy have made it easier than ever to take control of your well-being, yet not everyone is taking advantage of these opportunities equally.
At questhealth.com, we’re always looking to better understand how Americans think about their health — from what motivates them, to the habits they build, to how they approach long-term wellness. As part of this effort, we recently conducted the Know Your Health survey, which revealed stark generational differences in preventive care, health goals, and daily routines. The results were both eye-opening and encouraging: Boomers (ages 61–79) – often stereotyped as less tech-savvy or slower to adapt – are actually leading the way when it comes to proactive health management.
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Putting Preventive Care First
When it comes to preventive care, Boomers are leading by example. According to the survey, 73% of Boomers report going for an annual physical, and 70% say they get yearly bloodwork, both significantly higher than the results seen in Gen Z or Millennials. Boomers are also more likely to stay current on preventive screenings (64%) than younger adults.
This matters. While Boomers are experiencing higher rates of chronic conditions, they are also living longer than previous generations. One reason may be their commitment to preventive care. Boomers are consistently showing up for checkups and screenings—critical tools for early detection and improved long-term outcomes. They’re also the least likely generation to face barriers to care, with only 12% reporting difficulty accessing medical services in the past year, compared to 62% of Gen Z. That greater access may help explain why they’re more consistent in managing their health.
Healthy Habits, Long-Term Gains
What’s perhaps most striking is Boomers’ proactive mindset. For example, nearly 7 in 10 say they stay physically active to support their long-term health, higher than any other generation. And 73% say they prioritize regular checkups and screenings to catch issues early. They’re also more likely than younger groups to rely on guidance from healthcare providers to understand and manage future health risks.
While younger generations may be more likely to embrace technology, such as using health apps or wearables to prepare for their future health needs, it’s the Boomers’ consistency and provider-led approach that is laying a strong foundation for healthier aging.
A Changing Approach to Care
More broadly, the Know Your Health survey highlights a larger shift in how Americans want to manage their health: conveniently, proactively, and with access to actionable health insights. Through platforms like questhealth.com, people can access testing and insights without waiting for a doctor’s appointment, giving them more control over their well-being than ever before.
Preventive care may not be flashy, but it works. Boomers are proving that simple, consistent actions remain among the most powerful tools for protecting one’s health.
Preventive Care Options
While this isn’t an inclusive list, preventive care might include tests and screenings and lifestyle changes. Throughout your lifetime, these might include:
- Blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol tests
- Many cancer screenings, including mammograms and colonoscopies
- Counseling on such topics as quitting smoking, losing weight, eating healthfully, treating depression, and reducing alcohol use
- Regular well-baby and well-child visits
- Routine vaccinations against diseases such as measles, polio, or meningitis
- Counseling, screening, and vaccines to ensure healthy pregnancies
- Flu shots and other vaccines
