Alzheimers NZ welcomes Government’s focus on aged care

Alzheimers NZ has welcomed the Government’s commitment to developing a fit-for-purpose aged care system, saying the announcement recognises the urgency of addressing the health and wellbeing needs of older New Zealanders. 

Alzheimers NZ chief executive, Catherine Hall, said dementia is a health condition that has major implications for the aged care sector. 

“Dementia numbers are growing rapidly.  Three New Zealanders develop dementia every hour and that will increasingly impact the aged care system. 

“It’s encouraging to see this Government acknowledging the need for an integrated, long-term approach to older people’s health and wellbeing. 

“This work is significant and definitely required bi-partisan support.” 

Ms Hall noted the issue of bed numbers is central to aged care planning, but so, too, is the need to ensure older people, including those living with dementia, can live well at home in their communities for as long as possible. 

“That’s a message we’ve been stressing for many years.  Community-based services are far more cost-effective than hospital or aged care services, and more conducive to supporting quality of life as we age. 

“So investing in community services that help people stay well and independent will not only improve lives, but reduce pressure – and costs – on the health and aged care system.” 

Alzheimers NZ also welcomed the establishment of a Ministerial Advisory Group to guide the development of aged care policy. 

“We look forward to working with the Advisory Group, and contributing to it where useful, to ensure dementia is a core part of the conversation,” Ms Hall said. 

She said that, while there’s still a lot of policy detail to be worked through, it’s encouraging to see real progress on this important issue. 

“Minister Costello has been clear about the need to connect all parts of the health and aged care system – not just to keep people alive, but to help them age well. That’s exactly the kind of thinking we need and we welcome it. 

“Now, we will wait for more details.”