General Information Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical, dental, or health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers should not rely solely on the information contained herein for managing their health and are encouraged to seek guidance from a qualified health practitioner regarding any medical or health-related concerns. Navy Health Limited accepts no liability for any loss or injury incurred as a result of reliance on the information presented.
As we get older, staying well means being proactive. Preventive care is one of the most important ways seniors can stay on top of their health, avoid serious illness, and keep enjoying life to the fullest. With the right support in place, like Navy Health’s Extras cover, staying well can be simpler and more affordable.
The importance of preventive care
Preventive care includes regular check-ups, screenings, and services that help detect health issues early, before they become more complex, painful, or expensive to treat. It’s about looking ahead, rather than waiting for a problem to appear. In Australia, many risk factors remain high. 1 in 7 adults smoke daily, 2 in 3 are overweight or obese, and nearly half of Australians live with a condition that could have been prevented. ¹
Here’s how preventive care can make a meaningful difference as we age:
- Early detection: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, glaucoma, and hearing loss often develop slowly, without obvious symptoms. Regular health checks can catch these issues early, improving outcomes and making treatment easier.
- Improved quality of life: Staying on top of your health helps you stay active, mobile, and independent. Preventive care also supports mental wellbeing by reducing stress and giving you more control over your health care journey.
- Cost-effective in the long run: Preventive care reduces the need for emergency treatments, hospital stays or complex surgeries, all of which are more costly than early intervention. In fact, every dollar invested in preventive health is estimated to save around $14.30 in healthcare and other costs. ²
In short, it’s not just about living longer — it’s about living better.
Some practical examples of preventive care
Making preventive care part of your routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple steps you can take that can make a big difference to your long-term health:
- Yearly medical check-ups with your GP to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and general wellbeing.3
- Dental check-ups and cleans, which help prevent gum disease, tooth loss, and other oral health issues that are linked to heart health and diabetes. Generally, Dental check-ups and cleans every 6 to 12 months can be enough to prevent these problems from becoming painful, costly, or difficult to treat.4
- Eye exams, especially for detecting conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Specsavers advise to have an eye exam every two years unless advised by your optometrists or if eye problems occur earlier.5
- Hearing test — untreated hearing loss has been linked to social isolation and cognitive decline. Discuss with your healthcare specialists to determine how often hearing tests should be conducted.
- Cancer screenings, including bowel, breast, and skin checks, which are especially important with age. Screening is especially important as we age. 42% of Australia’s cancer burden is linked to modifiable risk factors, and early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.6 Consult with your healthcare specialists to determine how often cancer screenings should be.
- Routine vaccinations, such as the flu shot, shingles vaccine, and pneumonia vaccine, which help prevent serious illness. You can to your healthcare provider to determine which vaccines you may need and when.
When these checks are built into your healthcare routine, and covered by a supportive Extras policy, you’re more likely to stay on track and feel in control.
The role of Extras Cover
As our health needs grow with age, Extras cover becomes more than just additional support, it’s a proactive tool that empowers you to take charge of your wellbeing. Older Australians (65+) now make up just 16% of the population, but account for 22% of all emergency department visits.7 This highlights how common preventable health events are, and why regular access to allied health services through Extras cover can make a real difference.
Navy Health’s Extras cover includes a wide range of services that support preventive care. From regular dental cleans to physiotherapy and podiatry, these benefits are designed to keep you moving, feeling confident, and in control of your health.
For example, physiotherapy can improve strength, mobility and balance which helps reduce the risk of falls. Chiropractic and osteopathic care support spinal health and relieve joint pain, while podiatry helps you stay active and mobile by addressing foot pain, circulation issues, and complications related to diabetes or arthritis.
Optical benefits ensure you can access regular eye exams that can detect changes in vision early, while dental care can prevent more serious oral health issues that impact overall wellbeing.
At Navy Health, we understand that no two members are the same. That’s why our Extras cover options are designed to be comprehensive, with a focus on value, personal care, and ease of access.
With Navy Health Extras cover, you can expect:
- Comprehensive coverage across a wide range of services that support preventive care including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy, podiatry, and more.
- Tiered cover options so you can choose from different levels of Extras cover to match your lifestyle, budget, and health goals.
- Unlimited general dental* and discounted optical networks^ which helps you access preventive services with minimal out-of-pocket expenses when using our partner providers.
- Support that puts members first. Our team is here to help you understand your benefits, manage claims easily, and get the most from your cover.
Whether you’re focused on maintaining mobility, looking after your vision, or simply wanting peace of mind, our Extras cover is here to support you at every stage.
Make Preventive Care Part of Your Plan
Preventive care is one of the best investments you can make for your long-term health, and Navy Health’s Extras cover is here to help make it more accessible.
Sign up now and have 2 and 6 months waits waived!**
Prefer to speak to someone? Call our customer service team on 1300 306 289 for personalised advice and support.
We’re here to help you stay well now, and into the future.
- About preventive health in Australia | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
- Health protection, preventive health and sport
- Yearly health checks – Easy Read | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
- Dental check-up | healthdirect
- How Often Should I Have A Eye Test? | Specsavers Australia
- Maximising cancer prevention and early detection – Australian Cancer Plan
- Older Australians, Health – service use – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
*Unlimited General Dental on Healthy Living Extras or Premium Extras only. Waiting periods may apply. To view cover options, click here.
^Discounts available at participating optical providers only. Offers may vary by provider and are subject to change. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please check in store or here for full details.
** New members only. Terms and conditions apply.
