Doctors often order blood tests during check-ups – but what do these results really mean as you get older? In this episode, board-certified geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH breaks down the four most common blood tests ordered in older adults, including: Complete Blood Count (CBC) Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Lipid Panel (Cholesterol) You’ll learn what these tests measure, what abnormal results might mean, and how to spot early signs of common health problems – like anemia, kidney issues, liver function changes, and high cholesterol. This episode will help you: Understand your blood test results with confidence Know when to ask questions or follow up with your doctor Avoid common misunderstandings about “normal” lab ranges Be a more informed patient or caregiver Perfect for proactive older adults—or anyone supporting an aging parent who’s managing chronic conditions or taking medications. 📰 Want Dr. K’s advice in your inbox? Sign up here: Find related resources here: WATCH NEXT: Anemia in Aging: Symptoms and Solutions Slow Heart Rates in Aging: Pacemakers and other Treatments High Blood Pressure in Aging: When to Treat & Why It Matters Heart Failure in Aging: Symptoms, Types, and Treatments Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Aging: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Chronic Pain in Aging: What Really Helps & What to Know About Prescription Painkillers Protein, Metabolism & Aging: Nutrition Tips for Longevity Can Exercise Reverse Aging? How to Exercise to Age Well How to Improve Brain Health in Aging #BloodTest #SeniorHealth #CholesterolTest #AgingWell #GeriatricCar Chapters: 0:00 Lab Tests for Older Adults 2:52 - Why Blood Tests Matter & Why Doctors Order Bloodwork 5:25 - CBC: What It Measures and Why It’s Important 9:58 - Basic Metabolic Panel: Kidney Function, Electrolytes & Glucose 13:11 - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: Liver Function & Calcium 17:35 - Lipid Panel: Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Risk 20:00 - Understanding “Normal” vs “Abnormal” Results 22:00 - 4 Tips to Benefit From Blood Tests Disclaimer: The material on the Better Health While Aging YouTube channel, including any exchanges in the comments section, is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Kernisan may make regarding an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a physician-patient relationship between Dr. Kernisan and a caregiver, or care recipient. None of Dr. Kernisan’s website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see the full disclaimer for more information: