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Nicky Wagner
We welcome new research about the care and support needs of older Maori.
In 2013, the Government invested $1.8 million in Life and Living in Advanced Age: a Cohort Study in New Zealand Te Puwaitanga O Ng Tapuwae Kia Ora Tonu (LiLACS NZ) by the University of Auckland.
LiLACS NZ, the worlds first longitudinal study of an indigenous population in advanced age, is made up of a series of reports comparing Maori health needs with those of older non-Maori.
The report released today Intervals of Care Need: Need for Care and Support in Advanced Age includes five key findings about the care needs of older New Zealanders over the next decade.
Significant impact
We know our ageing population will have a significant impact on models of care so research like this serves as an important guide for the future.
It helps inform the development of local and national aged care policies and provides all New Zealanders with an opportunity to better prepare for their own health and well-being in later life.
Last December, the government released its Healthy Ageing Strategy, which recognises the higher care needs of some older Maori and makes commitments to reducing health inequities.
This government is committed to improving health and social outcomes for all older New Zealanders.
The latest LiLACS NZ report is available at: https://www.fmhs.auckland.ac.nz/assets/fmhs/faculty/lilacs/docs/Intervals-of-Care-Need.pdf
For more information on the Healthy Ageing Strategy: http://www.health.govt.nz/publication/healthy-ageing-strategy
Nicky Wagner is Associate Minister of Health in New Zealand.
