Retirement Commission Report Summary 2024
Friday, 19 April, 2024
Recently the Aged Care Commissioner released their: “Amplifying the voices of older people across Aotearoa New Zealand” report, here are some key findings summarised.
As we are all aware, the population of older people in New Zealand is growing rapidly. Projections indicate that by the year 2040, there will be 1.3 million people over the age of 65, this number growing to 1.5 million in 2050.
As demographic’s change, the population of older people will diversify, with projections indicating that by 2043, 75% will be Pākehā (New Zealand European), 11% will be Māori, 15% will be Asian, 5% will be Pacific, and 1% will be Middle Eastern, Latin American, and African.
The number of disabled older people is also expected to increase as the population ages, with 35% of New Zealand's population identifying as disabled. Regional data shows higher percentages of disabled older people in regions outside of the major cities.
Health and disability services for older people are a major focus of the report. Key issues include the lack of a dedicated strategy and planning for the health needs of an aging population, challenges in transitions of care from hospital to home and community support services, and the need for cultural sensitivity is a more diverse demographic.
In terms of this targeted strategy, to ensure quality health and disability services for older people, the commissioner suggests better discharge planning from hospitals, support for culturally conscious communication and investment in the aged care workforce.
The report looks at investment broadly, noting the importance of investing in innovative primary and community care models, supporting preventative interventions for dementia, and ensuring access to reliable, quality home and community support services.
Read the full report here: