Older adults
Healthy ageing in Rutherford, with a GP who knows you.
Bulk billed care for older adults, from health assessments and medication reviews to vaccines, memory and staying independent.
Care that helps you stay well and independent.
As we get older, health needs often become more complex. Our GPs take time to understand your health as a whole, from managing conditions and medicines to staying active, safe and connected.
Rutherford Doctors is a Medicare Bulk Billing Practice on Hillview Street with free onsite parking and wheelchair access, caring for older adults and their families across Rutherford, Aberglasslyn, Telarah and the wider Maitland area.
Book a longer appointment with your regular GP.
How we can help.
Choose a topic to learn what is involved and when to see a GP.
Health assessments
A yearly health assessment from age 75 looks at your overall health and wellbeing.
Physical health, medicines, memory, mood, falls risk, vision, hearing and support at home.
People aged 75 and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from 55.
Your GP agrees goals and next steps with you.
Medication reviews
Taking several medicines can be complex. A review helps make sure each one is still right for you.
Your GP reviews your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
Your GP can refer you for a pharmacist to visit and review your medicines at home.
Ask your pharmacist about dose administration aids.
Falls and mobility
Falls are common but many can be prevented.
Your GP can assess balance, strength, medicines, vision and home safety.
Exercise programs and physiotherapy can help keep you steady.
Your GP can talk about bone density and osteoporosis.
Memory and thinking
Some changes in memory are part of ageing, but some are worth checking.
Forgetfulness that affects daily life, getting lost, or changes noticed by family.
Your GP can do a memory assessment and arrange tests or referral.
Dementia Australia offers the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
Long-term conditions
Many older adults live with one or more chronic conditions.
A GP chronic condition management plan brings your care together.
A plan may give access to Medicare-rebated allied health services.
Keeping track of blood pressure, diabetes, heart and lung health.
Aged care and planning ahead
Support to stay safe at home, and plans for the future.
Your GP can help you connect with My Aged Care for home support services.
Talk with your GP and family about the care you would want in the future.
Support is available for family members who care for you.
Something else on your mind? Our GPs can help.
Vaccines for older adults.
Several vaccines are free for older adults under the National Immunisation Program.
Influenza
Flu
Flu can be serious for older adults. The vaccine is updated each year.
Book from April for protection through the flu season.
Shingrix
Shingles
Shingles can cause a painful rash and long-lasting nerve pain.
Some people with certain medical conditions are also eligible.
Pneumonia protection
Pneumococcal
Protects against pneumococcal disease, which can cause pneumonia.
Your GP will check your history.
Booster
COVID-19
Ask your GP about the current recommendations for your age.
Can often be given at the same visit as other vaccines.
Respiratory syncytial virus
RSV
RSV can cause serious chest infections in older adults. Ask your GP whether it is recommended and about any cost.
Some RSV vaccines are privately purchased and attract a fee.
Tetanus booster
Whooping cough
A booster may be recommended, especially before a new grandchild arrives.
Ask your GP about tetanus boosters too.
Eligibility for free vaccines is set by the National Immunisation Program and can change. Your GP will check what you are eligible for.
Not sure which vaccines you are due for? Ask your GP.
Your 75+ health assessment.
A yearly check that looks at your health as a whole.
Allow time
Longer appointment
Health assessments take longer than a standard visit. Ask reception when you book.
Bring a support person
Family or carer welcome
You are welcome to bring someone along to help.
Call 000 for
- Chest pain or sudden shortness of breath
- Sudden weakness, facial droop or trouble speaking
- A fall with a head injury or severe pain
- Sudden confusion
Step by step
- 1Book
Book a longer appointment online or with reception.
- 2Information
Your GP or nurse asks about your health, medicines, daily activities and support at home.
- 3Checks
Blood pressure, vision, hearing, memory, mood, falls risk and more.
- 4Plan
Your GP talks through findings and agrees a plan with you, including any referrals.
Aged 75 or over? Book your yearly health assessment.
Home Medicines Review
Your GP can refer you for an accredited pharmacist to review your medicines in your home.
Telehealth
Telehealth can be useful for follow-ups and repeat scripts. Some checks need to be in person.
Costs
Consultations and health assessments are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients. Some vaccines and allied health services may attract a fee.
Book an appointmentChecks by age.
Select an age group to see the checks and vaccines worth talking to your GP about.
Due for a check or vaccine?
Our GPs.
All of our GPs care for older adults. Seeing the same GP helps keep your care connected.
No preference? Book the first available GP.
Older adults questions.
What is a 75+ health assessment?
A yearly Medicare-funded check for people aged 75 and over that looks at physical health, medicines, memory, mood, falls risk and support at home.
Are older adults bulk billed?
All Medicare-eligible consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.
Is the clinic accessible?
Yes. There is free onsite parking and wheelchair access.
Can a family member come with me?
Yes. You are welcome to bring a family member or carer.
Which vaccines are free for older adults?
Flu (65+), shingles (65+) and pneumococcal (70+) vaccines are free under the National Immunisation Program for eligible people.
This page provides general information about older adults services at Rutherford Doctors. It is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
