Overview
This report is one of the key pieces of work for 2023 for our portfolio focusing on Older People.
Our aim was for this report to provide the fullest possible picture, in one place, of what is currently available for older people in New Zealand as well as what is missing.
By framing it as an easy-to-read guide with links to further information, we hope it will be of benefit to our members as well as to the people they serve in their communities.
This work was also intended as a call to action, to generate interest and spark collaboration. Our members have observed that many of the issues relating to the provision of services to older New Zealanders can be traced back to lack of prioritisation of older people’s needs. We feel strongly that this is because of systemic ageism that undervalues and deprioritises the needs of older New Zealanders.
Without specific older people’s policy, attention within and across the system, the issues we are seeing of insufficient funding, isolation and loneliness, physical and mental health deterioration, digital divide, and lack of visibility for older people’s needs will persist or grow as this population increases in size.
Below is our plan to tackle these issues, and more
Conclusion
We’re working towards an Aotearoa where older people’s needs are seen as valid and valuable, and where the many effects of ageism are seen as connected and solvable. A country with a specialised workforce who deeply understand older people and their needs. An Aotearoa where older New Zealanders are prioritised within government policy, funding and the wider social sector.
Strategic planning and action are needed now, to ensure a good future for all older people in New Zealand for many years to come. As we all age, so too will we all see the benefit of this work.
If you’d like to be part of this important mahi, please get in touch: [email protected]
Inoi Whakamutunga
Kia tau ki a tātou katoa
Te atawhai o tō tātou Ariki, a Ihu Karaiti
Me te aroha o te Atua
Me te whiwhingatahitanga
Ki te wairua tapu
Ake ake ake,
Āmine
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ
And the love of God
And the fellowship of the Holy Spirit
Be with you all
Forever and ever
Amen
