The most common questions about the Healthy and Active Aging check-up

We pursue a university concept in our check-up with a complete assessment of your overall health, including important lifestyle factors. The aim is to offer you a comprehensive and scientifically based prevention program that is tailored to your needs and preferences and can be implemented without great effort.

Our check-up is based on the largest healthy aging study in Europe led by our team: DO-HEALTH. As part of this study, we have succeeded in defining various risk profiles for the aging process. Based on the comprehensive examinations carried out in the check-up, we can assign you to a risk profile and, based on this, put together personalized recommendations for slowing down the aging process and preventing chronic diseases. We also support you in integrating our recommendations into your everyday life so that you have a long-term advantage.

No, there is no age limit. Healthy and active aging can be strived for at any time. The focus of our consultation varies according to your age. During this process, we rely on the latest international research plus evidence from the DO-HEALTH study – the largest healthy aging study in Europe, which is led by our team.

Nutrition is a central pillar of the Healthy and Active Aging check-up. We therefore recommend that you make a note of what you eat and drink a week before your appointment. The doctor will discuss this with you and advise you individually.

The check-up takes about three half-days. Various preliminary tests are required: blood sample, spiroergometry (a standard cardiovascular stress test), bone density and muscle mass measurement, and an ultrasound examination of the abdomen. The blood sample will be taken and the ultrasound examination performed in the morning because you have to have an empty stomach for these tests. You should expect the whole process to last about two hours.

The spiroergometry, bone density and muscle mass measurements take place on another day and also last about two hours. The subsequent clinical examination and discussion with the doctor takes another two hours.

Having an empty stomach means eating nothing after midnight and not drinking coffee, tea or sparkling mineral water on the morning of the examination. Drinking still water is allowed until the time of the examination.

A blood sample will be taken, and an ultrasound examination of the abdomen, a bone density and muscle mass measurement and a spiroergometry test will be performed. This will be followed by a comprehensive clinical examination and a detailed discussion with the doctor. She will discuss with you in particular your diet, cognition (memory function) and your exercise and sleep habits. If required, additional examinations are possible in other specialist departments of USZ.

Spiroergometry is a standard cardiovascular stress test and diagnostic method in which the resilience of the lungs, heart and cardiovascular system is tested.

During the examination, the size, structure and position of the abdominal organs and vessels are determined by means of an ultrasound scan.

The cost depends on the package you choose. In an initial conversation, we will be happy to clarify with you which services are ideal for you.

Each package consists of a comprehensive physical exam. In addition, our check-up also focuses on Healthy and Active Aging, as well as the prevention of chronic diseases such as cardio-vascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, cancer and dementia. The check-up is based on scientifically proven data. Each package gives you the option to learn more about your own Healthy and Active Aging status.

The Healthy and Active Aging check-up is a preventive offering. Depending on your supplementary insurance policy and the amount of your excess, your health insurance company will cover part of the costs. You will receive the original invoice and can then forward it to your insurance company.