Supporting Healthy Ageing: Preventative Health Checks for Older Adults
As we get older, looking after our health isn’t only about treating problems when they appear. Regular health checks can help identify potential concerns early, manage existing conditions and support our health and independence as we age.
This International Day of Older Persons, Botany Road Doctors is encouraging patients and families to think about preventative health.
If you have a parent, grandparent, relative, neighbour or older friend, it may be a good opportunity to ask: when was their last health check?
75+ Health Assessments
If you’re 75 years or older, you may be eligible for a Medicare-funded Older Person’s Health Assessment once every 12 months. Eligibility requirements apply.
The assessment gives your GP an opportunity to consider your overall health and wellbeing, including your physical, psychological and social health. What is covered will depend on your individual circumstances and healthcare needs.
Know someone aged 75+? Encourage them to speak with their GP or contact our reception team to find out whether they are eligible.
Check out NSW MBS Online for more info.
Heart Health Checks
Heart health is an important part of healthy ageing, and some cardiovascular risk factors may not cause noticeable symptoms.
A Heart Health Assessment can include reviewing your health history, blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as identifying physical or lifestyle factors that may affect your cardiovascular health. Your GP can then discuss preventative care and develop a management plan where appropriate.
Medicare-eligible patients aged 30 years and over who would benefit from this type of assessment may be eligible for a Heart Health Assessment. Other eligibility requirements apply, and the assessment can generally be claimed once in a 12-month period.
Want to know your heart health risk? Book an appointment with your GP and ask whether a Heart Health Assessment is appropriate for you.
For more info, check out the Heart Health Foundation website.
Diabetes Risk and Testing
Type 2 diabetes can develop gradually, and some people may not notice symptoms in its early stages.
Your GP can discuss your individual risk factors and recommend appropriate testing where needed.
The Australian Government's AUSDRISK tool can also help estimate your risk of developing type 2 diabetes within the next five years.
Managing Chronic Health Conditions
Many people develop ongoing health conditions as they get older. Managing multiple conditions and medications can sometimes become complicated.
Regular appointments with your GP can help monitor existing conditions, review medications and coordinate care with specialists and allied health professionals where appropriate.
At Botany Road Doctors, our GPs can support patients with preventative healthcare as well as the ongoing management of chronic health conditions.
Allied Health and Staying Independent
Healthy ageing also involves maintaining your mobility, strength and ability to participate in everyday activities.
Depending on your individual needs, your healthcare may involve allied health professionals such as physiotherapists and podiatrists, alongside your regular GP care.
If you notice changes in mobility, balance, foot health, memory or your ability to manage everyday activities, consider discussing these changes with your GP.
Think of Someone You Care About
Feeling well doesn’t always mean there’s nothing to check.
This International Day of Older Persons, take a moment to check in with an older person in your life and encourage them to stay on top of their health.
To find out more about health assessments, preventative healthcare or ongoing GP care, contact Botany Road Doctors or book an appointment with one of our GPs.
Eligibility and Medicare requirements apply to some health assessments and services. The healthcare, assessments and tests recommended will depend on individual circumstances. Please speak with your GP or our reception team for further information.
This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for individual medical advice.
