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Growing older does not have to mean giving up independence, confidence or the activities you enjoy.
For Australians aged 75 and over, a regular health assessment gives you and your GP dedicated time to look at your overall physical, psychological and social wellbeing.
At Arkaba Medical Centre in Parkside, the 75+ Health Assessment is a proactive way to identify emerging concerns, review medications, assess mobility and falls risk, and connect you with support where needed.
The goal is simple: to help you stay healthy, active and independent for as long as possible.
What Is a 75+ Health Assessment?
A 75+ Health Assessment is a comprehensive health review available to eligible Medicare patients aged 75 years and older.
Unlike a standard GP appointment that may focus on one concern, this assessment takes a broader look at your overall health and how you are managing day to day.
It may cover:
- current medical conditions
- medications
- blood pressure and cardiovascular health
- mobility and falls risk
- memory and cognition
- mood and emotional wellbeing
- hearing and vision
- immunisations
- nutrition
- social support
- your ability to manage everyday activities safely
Eligible patients can generally access this assessment once every 12 months.
Why Proactive Health Checks Matter
Many people only visit their GP when something feels wrong.
As we age, however, changes in balance, memory, hearing, medication tolerance or mobility can develop gradually. A regular health assessment can help identify these changes earlier and determine whether further support is needed.
For many older Australians, this is ultimately about maintaining independence.
That might mean staying mobile, managing medications safely, reducing falls risk, remaining socially connected and continuing to live confidently at home.
What Happens During the Assessment?
Depending on your circumstances, part of your assessment may be completed by a practice nurse before you see your GP.
Your healthcare team may review:
- your medical history
- recent investigations
- current medications
- changes in mobility
- falls or near-falls
- memory and mood
- hearing and vision
- lifestyle and preventive health
- how you are managing at home
It is also a good opportunity to raise symptoms you might not normally discuss during a shorter appointment, such as dizziness, tiredness, memory concerns or changes in appetite.
Mobility, Falls and Home Safety
Maintaining safe movement is an important part of ageing well.
Your assessment may explore:
- walking and balance
- muscle strength
- getting in and out of chairs
- recent falls
- dizziness
- vision
- footwear
- medication side effects
- hazards around the home
If concerns are identified, your GP may recommend physiotherapy, vision assessment, medication review or other practical strategies.
Reviewing Your Medications
Many older Australians take several medications each day.
During your assessment, your GP can review:
- whether each medication is still needed
- whether doses remain appropriate
- possible interactions
- side effects
- difficulties managing medicines
- vitamins and supplements
If your medication routine is complex, your GP may also recommend a Home Medicines Review with a pharmacist.
Memory, Mood, Hearing and Vision
A 75+ Health Assessment considers more than physical health.
Your GP may ask about:
- memory changes
- concentration
- mood or anxiety
- sleep
- hearing
- eyesight
- social connection
Persistent or worsening changes are worth discussing early, as they may affect safety, confidence and quality of life.
Preventive Health and Chronic Conditions
Your GP may also review whether your vaccinations and preventive care are up to date.
If you have an ongoing condition such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis or chronic pain, the assessment may identify opportunities to improve how your care is coordinated.
Where appropriate, your GP may discuss a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan or referral to allied health professionals such as:
- physiotherapists
- podiatrists
- dietitians
- exercise physiologists
- occupational therapists
Social Support and Ageing at Home
The assessment also considers how well you are managing in your everyday environment.
Your GP may ask about:
- who you live with
- family or social support
- transport
- shopping or household tasks
- whether you feel safe at home
- whether everyday activities are becoming harder
If additional support is needed, your GP can discuss appropriate community services or whether My Aged Care may be helpful.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Before your assessment, consider bringing:
- a current medication and supplement list
- details of specialists you see
- information about recent falls or hospital visits
- your glasses or hearing aids
- a list of questions or concerns
- details of any difficulties you are having at home
You may also choose to bring a family member or carer.
Ageing Well Is About More Than Medical Tests
A 75+ Health Assessment is not simply a checklist.
It is an opportunity to talk about what matters most to you.
That might mean continuing to garden, visiting friends, staying active, walking to the shops or remaining independent at home.
At Arkaba Medical Centre, our focus is on understanding your health in the context of your everyday life and helping you make informed decisions about your care.
Book Your 75+ Health Assessment at Arkaba Medical Centre
If you are 75 years of age or older, speak with your GP about whether you are due for your annual health assessment.
Taking time to review your health now can help identify emerging concerns and support your independence in the years ahead.
It’s proactive, structured care, not crisis management.
Take the Next Step
Ask our team at Arkaba Medical Centre about booking your 75+ Health Assessment.
More info:
Services Australia – MBS Billing for Health Assessments
This article provides general health information and does not replace personalised medical advice. Medicare eligibility, rebates and service availability may vary. Please speak with Arkaba Medical Centre or Medicare about your individual circumstances.
FAQs
Who is eligible for a 75+ Health Assessment?
Patients aged 75 years and over are generally eligible for a Medicare-supported health assessment once every 12 months.
Who conducts the assessment?
The assessment is GP-led, with support from our experienced practice nurses who help gather relevant health information and assist throughout the process.
What does the assessment cover?
It looks at your physical, psychological and social wellbeing, including mobility, medications, memory, mood, preventive care, safety at home and any additional support you may need.