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  • Healthy Ageing

Live well, Age Well: The Power of Preventative Health Checks

As we get older, looking after our health becomes even more important—not just to feel good day-to-day, but to stay independent and enjoy life to the fullest. One of the most effective ways to stay on top of your health is through regular check-ups. These routine appointments help catch potential problems early, offer peace of mind, and support you in living your healthiest life as you age.

 

Why Regular Health Checks Matter

One of the biggest benefits of regular health check-ups is early detection. Many common conditions, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, can develop silently without noticeable symptoms. Left unchecked, these can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, or kidney problems. By identifying them early, there’s a much better chance of managing them effectively and avoiding complications.

Health checks also play a big role in prevention. Routine screenings—such as those for breast, colorectal, or cervical cancer—can detect changes in the body before they develop into something more serious. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and better outcomes.

Mental health is just as important. Issues like depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline often go unnoticed until they start to interfere with daily life. Regular check-ups give your healthcare provider a chance to assess your mental wellbeing and offer support early on, whether that’s counselling, lifestyle changes, or other treatments.

These check-ups also help you and your doctor keep track of how your health is changing over time. For example, knowing your baseline blood pressure or cholesterol levels allows for quicker recognition of any changes. Monitoring things like bone density or vision can also help prevent issues before they affect your mobility or quality of life. The more information you and your doctor have, the more proactive and personalised your care can be.

 

Key Health Screenings for Older Adults

Here are some of the most important screenings and checks to keep on your radar as you age:

  1. Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can damage your heart and arteries. Aim to have it checked at least once a year.
  2. Cholesterol and Lipid Levels: Regular blood tests can help monitor your heart health. These are usually recommended every few years, or more often if you have other risk factors.
  3. Blood Sugar (Diabetes): Routine screening helps detect diabetes early, which is crucial for effective management.
  4. Cancer Screenings: These include mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smears, depending on your age, gender, and health history.
  5. Bone Density Tests: Especially important for postmenopausal women and older adults, these tests can help identify osteoporosis and reduce fracture risk.
  6. Vision and Hearing Tests: As we age, our eyesight and hearing naturally change. Regular checks can help detect issues like cataracts, glaucoma, or hearing loss early.
  7. Mental Health Screenings: Routine assessments can help catch depression, anxiety, or memory issues before they become more serious.

 

How to Stay on Top of Your Health Checks

  • Create a personalised schedule: Work with your doctor to build a health screening plan based on your unique needs.
  • Ask questions: If you’re unsure about what screenings you need or how often to have them, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider.
  • Be proactive: Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Regular check-ups are designed to prevent problems before they start.

 

Taking a proactive approach to your health can make a huge difference in how you feel and function as you age. Regular check-ups are a simple yet powerful tool for catching potential issues early, preventing illness, and staying in control of your wellbeing.

Ageing is a journey—and staying on top of your health is one of the best ways to enjoy every step of the way.

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Ana Cook

CPO

As our Chief People Officer, Ana brings over 20 years of leadership experience in People & Culture, Risk, and Business Transformation across utilities, hospitality, healthcare, and education sectors. Known for her commercial acumen and operational expertise, Ana has a proven track record in leading human resource workforce strategies, organisational turnarounds, and cultural transformation across complex, multi-site environments. 

As Director of People & Culture, Safety & Risk at Mighty Craft, she played a pivotal role in national expansion, crisis management, and strategic realignment, achieving significant cost reductions, improved employee retention, and cultural stability through major transitions. Her recent work with Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services further demonstrates her commitment to culturally safe and community-centred care. Ana will play a key role in strategic planning and will drive the people, culture, capability, brand, and governance functions. Ana is also deeply driven by purpose-led growth and brings a unique blend of empathy, innovation and strategic insight to people leadership.

Deborah Dixon

Executive Client Services

“I am inspired to pioneer a new way forward, challenging the way we think about aged care, and inviting you to reimagine a world class system for ageing in place. To lead with grace, creating environments where true participation can co-author our new story together”

Deborah is a dynamic leader driven by a passion for making a meaningful impact in people’s lives. With extensive experience in operations management, business transformations, and strategic programs, she continuously achieves success. Deborah’s strategic insight enhances workplace productivity and fosters exceptional quality of life outcomes for clients. 

With over a decade of leadership in community aged care services, Deborah’s journey began with a genuine desire to forge meaningful connections with elderly Australians. As a compassionate advocate, she believes in dignified aging, ensuring access to the highest standard of care for every individual. Deborah envisions a future where older Australians are empowered, independent, and connected, living their best lives to the fullest.

Michael Goulding

CFO

“I am motivated most by ensuring a thriving Comlink Australia exists sustainably for many years to come. I greatly appreciate the importance of independence, personal dignity and choice as we age, and believe the delivery of Comlink Australia’s compassionate, reliable and effective care and transport services to our elderly community is a necessity”

Michael is an accomplished Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Services Manager with a proven track record in the hospital, health, and aged care sectors. With years of hands-on experience, Michael has honed his expertise, becoming a valuable asset to Comlink Australia.

As our CFO, Michael leverages his proficiency in data modelling and business intelligence to drive organisational growth and efficiency. His keen eye for budgeting ensures optimal resource allocation, leading to improved financial performance.

Armed with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) (Hons) in Finance and Accounting from The University of Salford, Michael navigates complex financial landscapes adeptly. His risk management skills safeguard the organisation, while his ICT proficiency ensures seamless technology integration for operational productivity. Michael’s commitment to supporting his team and collaborating with stakeholders ensures regulatory compliance and secures funding for future growth.

Dirk Britz

COO

“I am motivated by knowing people feel safe. With respect to the aged care sector, this safety aspect aligns with the power that community-connection provides elderly people. I am proud that Comlink Australia’s services discourage isolation and loneliness, instead promoting opportunities for elderly members of our community to remain living their best lives as independently as possible.”

Dirk Britz, our Chief Operating Officer at Comlink Australia, is a seasoned leader renowned for his achievements in the health, wellness, and fitness sectors. Passionate about fostering high-performing teams and driving innovation, Dirk is dedicated to empowering individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Throughout his career, he has championed positive change, guiding professionals to reach their full potential and creating dynamic, motivated teams. 

With a solid academic background including a BA in Human Movement Science and Business Management from the University of the Free State, Dirk combines his expertise in operations management with a deep understanding of human potential. His qualifications from the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Harvard Business School further enrich his strategic approach. Dirk’s commitment to Comlink Australia’s vision of supporting clients to live and age well aligns perfectly with his belief in the importance of health and wellness across all generations. 

As COO, Dirk’s compassionate leadership drives our organisation’s mission forward, ensuring we achieve our goals while making a positive impact in our clients’ lives and communities.

Liam Mayo

CEO & Managing Director

“I believe that the measure of the success of a society is how well it ages, how it supports and cares for people as they age. I also believe that this is all about culture, and that Australia needs to reimagine what it means to ages in our homes and in our communities. I am proud to be leading this conversation at Comlink Australia.”

Liam, our CEO and Managing Director at Comlink Australia, is deeply committed to driving meaningful social change. He envisions a future where Australians live and age with dignity and trust, reimagining traditional approaches. Liam’s approachability is evident as he actively engages with clients, families, staff, and volunteers, gathering feedback and fostering a culture of inclusivity.

With a doctorate in sociology, Liam’s expertise in futures thinking and social change has earned him recognition as a sought-after speaker for both corporate and community audiences. He shares his insights through publications and serves as a guest researcher at Radboud University in the Netherlands, a lecturer at the University of the Sunshine Coast, and a Senior Fellow with the Centre for Postnormal Policy and Futures Studies in London. Liam’s personable leadership style and dedication to collaborative decision-making make him a trusted advocate for positive change within our organization and beyond.

Sharee Webster

Treasurer

“I am passionate about my community and giving back; I love being involved with this organisation whose mission it is to help people to age well in their own homes and communities.”

Sharee Webster, Manager of Holmans in Maroochydore since April 2007, is a Chartered Accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Queensland. She holds certifications as a Chartered Tax Adviser from the Taxation Institute of Australia and is a Registered Tax Agent.

In July 2016, Sharee obtained her Diploma of Financial Planning, becoming a licensed Financial Adviser. Specialising in business structures, taxation advice, and Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs), Sharee provides strategic tax guidance to private clients, family businesses, and corporate entities.

Formerly Treasurer of the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network for six years, she also served on the Board of Directors of the Buderim Community Enterprises Limited, trading as the Buderim Community Bank ® Branch of Bendigo Bank, for six years. Sharee is deeply embedded in the local community and brings a wealth of experience to her role.

Elaine Jobson

Board Chair

“I am passionate about embracing a holistic approach to healthy ageing where movement, good nutrition and a sense of community are recognised as key elements to ageing well. We aim to pioneer a paradigm shift in our industry, redefining the standards of healthy ageing.”

As our new Chair of the Board, Elaine Jobson strategically positions Comlink Australia at the forefront of the healthy ageing sector. With extensive experience in health and fitness, including leading the management buyout of Jetts Fitness, Ms. Jobson brings invaluable expertise to this role.

As we redirect our focus towards becoming an industry leader, Ms. Jobson’s global experience in fostering great cultures and cultivating exceptional leaders will be instrumental in driving ongoing success. Under her leadership, we aim to mitigate the impact of age-related illnesses and create a supportive environment for seniors, promoting physical, mental, and social health.

Elaine’s vision includes a holistic approach to healthy ageing, emphasising exercise, nutrition, and community engagement. With her guidance, we are set to revolutionise healthy ageing, improving the well-being and quality of life for older Australians.

Tim Robson

Board Chair

“I’m driven by being involved in effecting positive and meaningful change to people’s lives. I strive to make a positive difference in my community, our country and hopefully one day throughout the world by supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged people and communities.”

Tim is passionate about effecting positive change in people’s lives, from the local to the global level. With expertise in corporate governance for non-profits, he advises senior management and boards, while also supporting the growth of commercial enterprises. Tim’s experience spans large-scale project management, small business development, and providing governance advice to various organisations.

As the Managing Director of a Queensland-based consulting firm, he balances his professional responsibilities with community involvement. Tim serves as an Executive Director for Five Bridges Ltd, a not-for-profit Indigenous organisation, and has held leadership roles in professional and community associations. A member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders, Tim holds a Masters in Commercial Law, a Bachelor of Business, and a Diploma of Project Management.