“The best Father’s Day gift isn’t something you can wrap — it’s more years together.
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Every June, the familiar question arises: what should you get for Dad on Father’s Day? As you delve into searches, the typical advertisements appear: grilling tools, quirky socks, or yet another tie he’ll seldom wear.
The most meaningful gift you can offer isn’t found on Amazon. This year, consider giving the gift of time. Lifestyle changes and preventive healthcare can surprisingly extend that time, if you know where to seek guidance.
Here’s a fact: American men typically live nearly five years less than women, but much of this disparity is avoidable. Men are less likely to visit the doctor, undergo screenings, and often ignore health warnings until it’s too late.
The positive news is that many of the health risks that lead to early death in men are both detectable and treatable if addressed early. This Father’s Day, consider encouraging Dad (or yourself) to adopt five healthy habits and undergo five essential health screenings that can potentially add years to life.
Here are 10 evidence-backed measures – 5 habits and 5 screenings – that every dad and his loved ones should be aware of. Studies indicate that men who embrace healthy lifestyles and keep up with screenings can significantly extend their lifespans.
The Five Healthy Habits For Dad Father’s Day
Don’t Smoke — or Encourage Dad To Quit
Smoking is the leading preventable cause of premature death in men. Abstaining from smoking is linked to a 13% reduction in the risk of death from any cause, with even greater benefits seen in men. The encouraging part: quitting smoking at any age can make a substantial impact. If Dad smokes, assist him in creating a cessation plan: call 1-800-QUIT-NOW together, download a quit-smoking app, or consult his doctor about medications that can double his chances of quitting successfully.
Motivate Dad To Be More Active Daily
Engaging in just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily, such as brisk walking, biking, or playing basketball with the kids, is a strong predictor of increased lifespan. A study found that active men lived an average of 3.5 years longer than their sedentary counterparts. Make it a family event: plan a Father’s Day hike, join a local 5K together, or challenge dad to a daily step-count competition.
Improve Eating Habits As A Family
Poor diet ranks as the top risk factor for disease in men globally. However, healthy eating doesn’t need to be complex. Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish into meals while reducing the intake of processed foods, red meat, and sodium. Kids and partners can contribute by preparing healthy meals for dad, trying new recipes weekly, or replacing one unhealthy snack with a healthier choice. Small adjustments can accumulate significant benefits.
Support Dad In Maintaining A Healthy Weight and Moderating Alcohol Consumption
Maintaining a healthy weight (BMI under 25) and reducing alcohol intake — or eliminating it entirely — are crucial for longevity. Assist Dad by filling the fridge with healthier options and suggesting enjoyable, active outings instead of gatherings centered around food or drinks.
Keep Dad Connected and Ensure He Sleeps Well
Loneliness and social isolation pose serious health risks, especially for men. Socially isolated men face a significantly higher risk of early death. Meanwhile, getting 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night is now recognized as crucial for heart health. Encourage Dad to stay engaged — join a club, volunteer, maintain friendships — and help him prioritize a regular sleep schedule. Establishing a Father’s Day tradition of recurring family dinners or weekly phone calls can have a lasting positive impact.
The Five Screening Tests Every Dad Should Get
Ensure Dad Gets A Blood Pressure Check
High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” typically presents no symptoms but is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. Nearly one-third of men with high blood pressure are unaware of their condition. The solution is straightforward: a blood pressure check takes under a minute at a doctor’s office, pharmacy, or even at home with an affordable cuff. Consider gifting Dad a home blood pressure monitor this Father’s Day, and encourage him to use it regularly.
Verify Dad’s Cholesterol Levels
High cholesterol gradually clogs arteries without symptoms until a heart attack or stroke occurs. Guidelines suggest that all men aged 40–75 should have regular cholesterol checks, as this is the period where interventions — lifestyle changes or medication — are most effective. Ask Dad about his last lipid panel. If he’s unsure, it’s time to schedule one.
Update Dad On Colon Cancer Screening (Starting at Age 45)
Colorectal cancer ranks as the third leading cause of cancer death in men, yet it’s highly preventable with early screening. Screening should begin at 45 for average-risk individuals. Options include a colonoscopy every 10 years, an annual stool-based test (like FIT), or a stool DNA test every three years. If Dad is 45 or older and hasn’t been screened, assist him in scheduling one. If apprehensive about a colonoscopy, remind him that an at-home stool test is an effective alternative.
Facilitate A Prostate Cancer Discussion With Dad’s Doctor (Ages 55–69)
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men. However, screening isn’t uniform for everyone. The USPSTF advises that men aged 55–69 discuss with their doctor whether PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing is appropriate. This helps weigh the benefits of early detection against the potential risks of overdiagnosis and treatment side effects. Black men and those with a family history of prostate cancer have higher risks and might consider starting this conversation earlier, even as early as 40–45. Encourage Dad to broach the topic at his next medical appointment.
Ensure Dad Undergoes Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening (Ages 65–75, for Men Who Have Smoked)
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a hazardous swelling in the body’s largest artery that can rupture unexpectedly, with fatality rates reaching 81%. The USPSTF recommends a one-time ultrasound screening for men aged 65–75 who have ever smoked, even if they quit years ago. This simple, 10-minute test can identify an aneurysm before it becomes life-threatening. If Dad fits this age and smoking history, confirm he has received this screening.
Ultimately, none of these measures demand a costly concierge-medicine membership or a hefty biohacking budget. They involve a few appointments, a willingness to request specific tests, and a caring child ready to encourage action.
This Father’s Day, enjoy the grill and the dad jokes, but also check when Dad last visited the doctor. If it’s been a while, offer to help him make the appointment. While the tie may end up forgotten in a drawer, giving Dad the gift of more Father’s Days is invaluable.
