Older people
Best-practice guidelines apply regardless of age. In terms of participating in decision-making, the needs of many older people do not differ from the general population.
The large and growing population of over-65s make up about 12 percent of New Zealand's population. At the time of 2006 Census there were:
- 56,667 people aged 85 and over
- 173,451 aged 75-84
- 265,482 aged 65-74.
The ‘young old’ and the ‘older old’ may have very different life experiences, aspirations, and perspectives.
As with other age groups, remember:
- larger fonts are easier to read
- not everyone has easy access to the Internet
- at meetings, presenters should speak clearly and audibly, or use microphones.
Age Concern and Grey Power
Two organisations working for older people are Age Concern and Grey Power.
Age Concern promotes quality of life for older people and positive ageing for all people. It provides a national focus and voice for the nationwide network of Age Concern Councils. These councils provide information, advocacy and other services for older people in their areas.
Grey Power is made up of 78 federated branches nationwide, grouped into seven zones. Grey Power's focus is on lobbying for the interests of older people at national and local levels, and informing its members on matters of local and national interest.
Office for Senior Citizens
The Office for Senior Citizens is part of the Ministry of Social Development. Its role is to advise the Minister for Senior Citizens on policy and issues relevant to older people, and to advocate for the rights and interests of older people.
The Office has strong networks with older people's organisations, and with older people in communities throughout New Zealand through its contact with NGOs and its Volunteer Community Co-ordinators Programme.
