Green Co-leader addresses Grey Power AGM

The aged care sector is fast reaching crisis point, and comprehensive changes are needed, the Green Party Co-leader Dr Russel Norman told the Grey Power AGM yesterday afternoon.

Last year the Greens and Labour, in conjunction with Grey Power, released a report entitled: ‘A Report into Aged Care. What does the future hold for older New Zealanders?’

Green Party Co-leader Dr Russel Norman said at the Grey Power AGM today: “We want to look after all New Zealanders, and currently the system isn’t doing enough for our oldest and most vulnerable citizens.

“Our investigation found that problems in the sector are chronic and widespread.

“With no regulations around minimum staffing levels or training, the care provided to older New Zealanders is inconsistent, and often inadequate.”

Dr Norman said the report produced 14 key recommendations, based on more than 450 submissions from 20 nationwide meetings attended by more than 1200 people, and conversations with various experts, nurses and caregivers around the country.

“An Aged Care Commissioner needs to be appointed as a priority, to improve the quality of care across the sector; investigate the issues raised in this report, and develop a long term national Aged Care strategy.”

Dr Norman said the report found many older New Zealanders wanted to 'age in place', remaining in their homes for as long as possible, to have greater independence and flexibility, to live fuller lives for longer.

“We need well-regulated rest homes that put residents first. But there can be a greater emphasis on alternatives, including well-supported ageing at home, community-based models of care and supported housing.

“Beyond the report, many Green Party initiatives would also assist older New Zealanders with this and to live fuller lives, such as making communities more walkable, improving public transport, and insulating homes,” said Dr Norman.

Link to Aged Care Report:
http://www.greens.org.nz/agedcare