Supporting Healthy Ageing: Preventative Health Checks & Geriatric Care for Older Adults
As we get older, looking after our health isn’t only about treating problems when they appear. Regular health checks and ongoing care can help identify potential concerns, manage existing conditions and support health and independence as we age.
This International Day of Older Persons, Matraville Doctors is encouraging patients and families to think about preventative health and healthy ageing.
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.
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.
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 information, visit the Heart Foundation's Heart Health Checks information.
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, medications and appointments can sometimes become complicated.
At Matraville Doctors, our GPs can help monitor ongoing health conditions, review medications and coordinate care with specialists and allied health professionals where appropriate.
Regular GP care can be particularly helpful for people managing conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, arthritis and other long-term health concerns.
Geriatric Care at Matraville Doctors
For older adults with more complex healthcare needs, Matraville Doctors also offers access to geriatric care with our specialist geriatrician, Dr Bilyana Konstantinova.
Geriatric medicine focuses on the health and wellbeing of older adults, particularly when there are multiple or more complex health concerns.
A geriatric assessment may consider areas such as:
Multiple or complex medical conditions
Medications
Memory and cognition
Mobility and physical function
Falls
Independence and everyday activities
Overall health and wellbeing
A geriatrician can work alongside your GP and other healthcare professionals to assess your needs and develop an appropriate management plan.
Think you or someone you care for may benefit from geriatric care? Speak with your GP about whether a referral to our geriatrician may be appropriate.
Allied Health & Staying Independent
Healthy ageing also involves maintaining mobility, strength and the ability to participate in everyday activities.
Matraville Doctors provides access to allied health services, including physiotherapy and dietetics, alongside GP and specialist care.
Depending on your individual needs, your healthcare team can help support areas such as mobility, strength, nutrition and ongoing health management.
If you notice changes in mobility, balance, 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.
Whether it’s a 75+ Health Assessment, Heart Health Check, diabetes risk assessment, chronic condition management or specialist geriatric care, Matraville Doctors can help you understand which services may be appropriate.
To find out more about preventative healthcare, healthy ageing or geriatric care, contact Matraville Doctors or book an appointment with one of our GPs.
Eligibility and Medicare requirements apply to some health assessments and services. The healthcare, assessments, tests and referrals 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.
