Healthspan: Four ways to support healthier ageing with your GP in Geelong 

Quick guide to ageing well 

Healthy ageing is about improving your healthspan, which refers to the years of life spent in good health. 

There are four simple ways to support this: 

• Schedule regular preventative check-ups with your GP
• Stay physically active to maintain strength and heart health 
• Support your mental wellbeing and manage stress 
• Keep up with recommended screenings for women’s and men’s health 

At Kardinia Health, our GPs support patients across Geelong and the Bellarine & Surf Coast with a focus on long-term health and wellbeing. 

What is healthspan? 

When people think about ageing, they often focus on lifespan, or how long we live. Healthspan looks at something slightly different. It refers to how many of those years are lived in good health, where you can stay active, independent, and continue enjoying everyday life. 

The goal for woman and men’s health, is not just to live longer, but to live well for longer. 

The encouraging part is that healthy ageing is not about making drastic changes. With the right support and small, consistent habits, you can positively influence your long-term health at any stage of life. 

Your GP plays an important role in guiding these decisions and helping you stay on track. 

Prioritise preventative health care 

Regular preventative care is one of the most effective ways to support your healthspan. 

Visiting a GP for routine check-ups allows potential health concerns to be identified early, often before symptoms appear. Early detection can make many conditions easier to manage and may help prevent complications over time. 

Preventative care may include: 

• Blood pressure and cholesterol checks 
• Skin checks 
• Routine health screenings 
• Discussions around sleep, nutrition, and lifestyle 

Your GP can also help assess and manage risk factors for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis in patients overall health. 

At Kardinia Health, our medical clinic in Geelong focuses on proactive, preventative care to support both woman and men’s health and wellbeing. 

Stay physically active 

Movement is a key part of healthy ageing. Regular physical activity supports heart health, maintains muscle strength, improves balance, and helps protect bone density. 

It also plays an important role in supporting mental wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and improve mood. 

Healthy ageing does not require intense exercise. Consistent, moderate activities such as walking, swimming, strength training, yoga, or cycling can all contribute to better health outcomes. 

If you are unsure where to start, your GP can help guide you on safe and appropriate ways to stay active based on your health, fitness level, and any existing conditions. 

Support your mental wellbeing 

Looking after your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical health as you age and throughout the lifespan. 

Maintaining social connection, managing stress, and prioritising sleep all contribute to overall wellbeing and quality of life. 

If you are experiencing anxiety, low mood, or ongoing stress, it is important to seek support early. Speaking with your GP is a good first step. They can provide guidance and connect you with psychologists or other allied health professionals to support both men and woman’s health. 

At Kardinia Health, we take a whole-person approach to care, supporting both physical and mental health. 

Stay on top of women’s and men’s health 

As your body changes over time, your health needs will also evolve. Regular check-ups and open conversations with your GP help ensure you are supported at every stage of life. 

For women, this may include support through reproductive health, perimenopause and menopause, bone health, and routine screenings. 

For men, this may include monitoring heart health, prostate health, and other lifestyle-related risk factors. 

Your GP provides a safe and supportive environment to discuss any concerns and ensure your care is tailored to your individual needs. 

Small steps can support a healthier future 

Ageing well is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about making small, consistent choices that support your health over time. 

Regular check-ups, staying active, supporting your mental wellbeing, and keeping up with recommended screenings all contribute to a longer and healthier life. 

If you would like support with your health as you age, you can book an appointment with a GP at Kardinia Health. Our team supports patients across Geelong with personalised, preventative care. 

Frequently asked questions 

What is the difference between lifespan and healthspan? 

Lifespan refers to how long you live, while healthspan focuses on how many of those years are spent in good health. The goal of healthy ageing is to maintain independence and quality of life for as long as possible. 

How can I improve my healthspan as I age? 

You can support your healthspan by attending regular GP check-ups, staying physically active, managing stress, maintaining social connections, and keeping up with recommended health screenings. 

How often should I see a GP for preventative care? 

This depends on your age, medical history, and risk factors. Many people benefit from an annual check-up, while others may require more frequent monitoring. Your GP can recommend a schedule that suits your needs. 

What health checks should I have as I get older? 

Common checks may include blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels, skin checks, and age-appropriate screenings. Your GP will guide you based on your individual health profile.