i will be 98 on 9/4/2026. should i get a colonoscopy?

@noelcliffmsncom your doctor is the best judge.

Just my 2 cents, I was told when I was 70 years old that I was not going to need anymore.
I’ve read that a colonoscopy after a certain age can be a problem because the skin thins and there’s a chance of damage.

If your gastro is recommending a colonoscopy, you may wish to talk to your gastro about having a virtual colonoscopy which is non-invasive. You would still need to go through the cleanse the day before.

I am over 80 and hope to never need another colonoscopy.

I wish you good luck and an easy resolution to your issue.

I had a false positive using the Cologuard kit. Do not trust it. Gastro doctor was not fond of the cologuard kit because of those false positives. Subsequently, the colonoscopy I had after the cologuard was fine .

@noelcliffmsncom
At 98, I would do whatever you want to do.

@momcatvw the new Cologuard Plus has a pretty good accuracy. The old test was no where near as accurate as the new one. The biggest problem with a false positive is your colonoscopy goes from screening to diagnostic and depending on your insurance you may be financially on the hook for the entire cost of the colonoscopy.

@gigipatula

Thank you, it was several years ago. I didn’t realize that they’d improved their product. Good to know as I’m too old for a colonoscopy.

I'm 81. D do what your doctor says he or she is the expert don't take advice from the Internet too many loonies and too confusing. God bless whatever you do.

at 98 I would not get a colonoscopy HOWEVER for people saying they are 70 and not getting one I think it is a mistake. I had one at 71 there were cancerous polyps, all is fine but the prevention is better than the treatment for cancer and the nap is good.

Congratulations on such a long, healthy life! I would avoid the colonoscopy for no other reason than the effects of the anesthesia on us elderly folks. And I agree with the prior comment about whether or not you would want to endure the treatments at your age if cancer were to be detected. Best wishes for continued aging well - you are obviously doing a great job!

No