When you turn 60, your doctor might suggest a calcium score test to check your heart health. The average calcium score 60 year-old people get can help predict your risk of a heart attack. But what does that score mean? Should you worry if your number is high? In this guide, we’ll explain it all in very simple words so anyone can understand.
What Is a Calcium Score?
A calcium score, also called a coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, shows how much calcium is in your heart’s arteries. It’s measured using a special CT scan. The more calcium you have, the higher your score—and that means more risk of heart disease.
Doctors use this score to spot early signs of plaque buildup. Plaque is a mix of fat and calcium. It sticks to artery walls and can block blood flow to your heart.
Why the Calcium Score Matters at Age 60
At age 60, your risk of heart disease naturally increases. That’s why many doctors recommend checking your calcium score as part of a routine heart check. This number helps decide if you need to start treatment—like medicine or lifestyle changes—to lower your risk.
👉 Real-Life Example:
Linda, a 60-year-old from Florida, had no heart symptoms. Her doctor suggested a CAC test. She scored 320. That’s high. She started daily walks, a heart-healthy diet, and began taking a statin. One year later, her cholesterol dropped, and her risk lowered too.
Average Calcium Score 60 Year-Old Males and Females
Here’s a chart showing average calcium score ranges based on age. This helps you compare your score to others your age.
| Age | Average Score (Men) | Average Score (Women) |
|---|
| 50–59 | 80–100 | 20–30 |
| 60–69 | 200–250 | 80–100 |
| 70–79 | 300–400 | 120–160 |
Note: These are average numbers. Your score may vary based on family history, smoking, diabetes, and more. Source: American College of Cardiology
What’s a Good Calcium Score for a 60-Year-Old?
- 0: Excellent. No plaque.
- 1–99: Mild risk.
- 100–299: Moderate risk.
- 300 or more: High risk.
So, if your calcium score at 60 is under 100, you’re doing well. If it’s over 300, it’s time to talk seriously with your doctor about heart health.
How Is the Test Done?
Getting a calcium score test is fast and painless.
- You lie on a table.
- A CT scanner takes images of your heart.
- No needles, no dye, no downtime.
- It takes less than 10 minutes.
In the U.S., the test usually costs between $100 to $400, and many clinics offer it as a special screening.
🌍 Locations & Facilities Offering CAC Tests:
- Mayo Clinic – Nationwide USA
- Cleveland Clinic – Ohio, Florida
- Apollo Hospitals – India
- NHS Heart Health Units – UK
Find a nearby testing center: Healthline CAC Test Guide
Benefits of Knowing Your Calcium Score at 60
✔ You can spot heart disease early
✔ Helps your doctor plan treatment
✔ Motivates healthy habits
✔ May prevent future heart attacks
Disadvantages to Keep in Mind
✘ Not covered by all insurance plans
✘ Doesn’t show soft plaque (only hard calcium)
✘ May cause anxiety if the score is high
✘ You still need other heart tests for full results
How to Lower a High Calcium Score
Even if your calcium score is high at 60, you can reduce your risk by changing your lifestyle:
Simple Tips:
- 🚶 Walk 30 minutes every day
- 🥦 Eat more veggies, fruits, and whole grains
- 🚭 Quit smoking
- 💊 Take statins if prescribed
- ❤️ Manage stress
- 😴 Sleep at least 7 hours a night
Case Study: Tom from California
Tom, a 60-year-old retired teacher, had a calcium score of 400. His cholesterol was high, and he had a family history of heart attacks. His doctor prescribed a statin and suggested exercise. After 6 months of walking daily and switching to oatmeal and veggies, Tom’s cholesterol dropped, and he felt more energetic. His next test showed no further plaque growth.
FAQs About Average Calcium Score 60 Year-Old
What is a dangerous calcium score for a 60-year-old?
A score over 300 is considered high. It means a greater risk for heart issues.
Can you reduce your calcium score?
No, you can’t lower the score itself, but you can stop it from getting worse through healthy habits.
Is a score of 0 good at age 60?
Yes! A score of 0 means no detectable plaque. It’s the best possible result.
How often should I get tested?
If your score is low or 0, every 3–5 years is enough. If it’s high, your doctor may test yearly.
Does Medicare cover the calcium score test?
In most cases, Medicare does not cover it unless it’s part of a larger heart checkup plan. Always check first.
Conclusion
The average calcium score 60 year-old people get can be a powerful clue about heart health. Whether your score is 0 or 400, what matters most is what you do next. Make smart choices—eat well, move often, and talk to your doctor.
Calcium scores don’t predict your future, but they help you take control of it.
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