Age Concern New Zealand Media Release
25 February 2009

Waiting lists action a good first step – Age Concern

Comment by Liz Baxendine, Age Concern New Zealand National President

Age Concern New Zealand welcomes today's Government waiting lists announcement and wants to see more action on health improvements that could make a big difference for older New Zealanders.

"Taking action on waiting lists is good news for older people and good news for the community," says Liz Baxendine.

Today, national president Liz Baxendine and chief executive Ann Martin briefed Health Minister Tony Ryall and Senior Citizens' Minister Carter on a range of simple steps they could take to make a big difference in older people's health.

"Older people are productive and many are vital people in their communities – but too often they're held back by health issues that could be easily fixable.

Older New Zealanders need action on elder abuse, chronic social isolation, need enough funding in their superannuation to have their eyes ears and teeth checked and cared for – these simple steps could make so much difference.

Getting people off waiting lists and back to being productive is a great investment and we're pleased to see Mr Ryall beginning to make this investment, even in these tough times.

Age Concern has been pressing for action on hip and knee surgery, cataract and knee operations. These in particular make a difference for older people so we want to see early action on these.

We know people who could be making a big contribution – but they haven't even been able to get on waiting lists, let alone advance up the lists, so they're suffering."

ENDS

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