Age Concern's SeniorWatch
Read our popular SeniorWatch service online. Includes the latest reports in the media about older people and ageing issues, up to 16 September.
Chronic loneliness affecting New Zealand's elderly
3 News, 14 September 2011 > LINK
Age Concern met with the Minister for Senior Citizens this week to brief him on the issues facing older New Zealanders, including a growing number of senior citizens suffering from chronic loneliness. There are 580,000 older people living in New Zealand, Age Concern New Zealand Chief Executive Ann Martin says, and more than 40,000 suffer from social isolation. "There are more older people in New Zealand than ever before… Many of those people are living alone, and they have lost connection with their families. They haven't made the networks that possibly they could make, and possibly should make."
> LINK Watch Video on Demand for the full interview [pictured]
Mixed rooms upset patients
Auckland Now 16 September > LINK
Older people feel uncomfortable at having to share hospital wards with the opposite sex, North Shore Age Concern's Jennie Michel says. The elder abuse co-ordinator says it can be embarrassing for older people who are using the same bathrooms in mixed hospital wards. "It is a problem for older people, but I understand hospitals need to utilise all the beds," the registered nurse says. Waitemata District Health Board chief operating officer Alan Wilson says single gender rooms are a big focus at North Shore and Waitakere Hospital. English stroke specialist Gerry McGonigal says many New Zealand hospitals are failing to notice and prioritise issues around patient dignity. "We must start to notice the environment in which we are caring for vulnerable elders within acute hospitals," he says.
Age Concern maintains regular contact with tenants
Wanganui Chronicle, 13 September 2011 > LINK
Council pensioner housing tenants in Wanganui are visited regularly by Age Concern Wanganui, who monitor their welfare. Tracy Lynn, manager of the Wanganui branch, said it was something staff had done for at least the past 15 years and she believed Age Concern Wanganui was the first in the country to adopt this as a policy. The issue of tenant safety in council-owned housing hit the headlines when an 88-year-old man's body was found in a Wellington City Council unit more than a year after he died .
Other reference: Wellington Mayor attends 'forgotten man's' funeral yesterday
Good oral health not just icing on cake
Voxy, 12 September 2011 > LINK or read the full item on this website HERE
It's World Oral Health Day and Age Concern New Zealand is urging older people to bite the bullet and visit the dentist...
When adult children need to help parents
New Zealand Herald, 10 September 2011 > LINK
Retired parents often help their cash-strapped offspring. Sometimes it's the other way around - especially for older people who lost money in the finance company crashes. That financial support can be very broad and include proffering advice and ensuring parents are getting all the government and other financial assistance they're entitled to. When families pull together, the arrangements can be mutually financially beneficial, says Age Concern national president Liz Baxendine, who gives the example of paying parents for looking after your children.
Adult children who don't have money to spare can still help their parents by staying abreast of their parents' world, helping them get assistance and pointing them to services that can be of help, says Jocelyn Weatherall… Baxendine says adult children could also set up a meeting between parents and Age Concern, which can refer them to other agencies, such as budget advice services. The important thing is not to "parent your parents" but give them advice, says Weatherall. "People can be very dominant and not respectful of a senior person's views."
Seniors in the News
Seniors donate clothes
Manawatu Standard 12 September 2011 > LINK
Churches from the central city and suburbs who do not have their own venues hold monthly get-togethers in northern area suburbs of Christchurch. This is where Taihape's senior citizens and Older & Bolder groups sent the first five bags of warm clothing for distribution to some very appreciative seniors. "These coffee mornings are chance for older people to chat and enjoy each other's company, many are afraid to go into large buildings again for fear of more earthquakes," Betty Tierney said.
Backing for rights of older motorists
Wanganui Chronicle 9 September 2011> LINK
Claims that the Government should make it harder for elderly drivers to be on our roads have been challenged by a local road safety co-ordinator. Clive Matthew-Wilson, who promotes himself as an "leading road safety expert" … made his comments after two elderly women were killed after driving the wrong way down a highway north of Hamilton on Tuesday. But Glenda Leitao, Horizons Regional Council road safety co-ordinator, dismissed those claims as a sweeping generalisation… "If you have been assessed by your doctor and he or she says it's okay for you to keep driving then that's fine…"And if the aged driver isn't checking themselves then there's sure to be a family member who might have some issues to address that."
Older items
Rich-listers deny profiting from the elderly
New Zealand Herald, September 9, 2011
One of New Zealand's richest families have denied they are profiting from the elderly in a move which could net them more than $5 million. A group of pensioners at Perrinpark near Hamilton are fighting the Perry Foundation, a charitable trust and owner of Te Kowhai retirement village, over freeholding of land...
Phillippa Waters says she stands to lose $82,000 from the sale of her late mother's house. Photo / Christine Cornege
Waiheke resthome closure 'out of the blue'
A 92-year-old woman who advocated for pension housing on Waiheke may have to move to the mainland after it was announced the island's only nursing home will close. Doreen Burns is one of 20 residents who were told this week Seaside Sanctuary will close in early November. Residents' families were informed on Tuesday that the home needs a $4.4 million upgrade which The Seaside Charitable Trust, which runs it, cannot afford.
Doreen['s] children are now considering where they will move their elderly mother... She advocated for the housing because she believed the island's elderly should not be forced to move away from their community.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Watea News 6.03am September 8, 2011 > LINK
It's Prostate Cancer Awareness month, so you men out there might want to consider a check. Dr Nathan Joseph of Turuki Health Care in Mangere says it's the most common cancer in men, with about 2,500 new cases a year diagnosed, mostly in men over 65. Non-Maori men are more likely to get checked than Maori. "Prostate Cancer's one of those interesting ones in that we get less prostate cancer than non-Maori do but if we do get it, we do worse than non-Maori do, so when we get it it's more nasty,"
The men in black visit Stratford
Host the All Blacks for a day winners, Cullen May, Rowan Cole, and Corban
[The All Blacks] arrived at the Marire Rest Home half an hour late, none of the staff members were going to tell them off, they arrived and that's what mattered. The men in black joined the residents in a game of bingo. “Thanks very much for having us along. It's really awesome. We will be trying to make you all very proud during the world cup,'' says Conrad Smith, who has family living in Stratford.
Older items
Wellington Geriatrician returns to U.K – disappointed by lack of elder care
Scoop September 6, 2011 > LINK
Addressing Age Concern New Zealand, geriatrician and stroke specialist Dr Gerry McGonigal expressed his frustration at the way elderly care and stroke services are arranged and delivered in many New Zealand hospitals… “In many areas in New Zealand geriatricians ...see but a small proportion of frail elderly people admitted acutely into hospital.”
Contract checks tenants’ welfare
Otago Daily Times, September 7, 2011 > LINK
An innovative project in Oamaru… ensures elderly tenants in community housing units owned and operated by the Waitaki District Council are kept safe. The council has had a contract since 2009 with Age Concern Waitaki for its welfare officer, Aileen Wilson, to visit each tenant in the 66 units every three months. That is backed up by council maintenance staff, who carry out work on the units, and a contractor who services heat pumps... The issue of safety of tenants in council-owned complexes arose earlier this month [in Wellington]
Seniors in the News
Call for cultural resthome
Central Leader, September 7, 2011 > LINK
A resthome which could cater for Auckland's South Asian community has strong support. The option to visit a mosque or temple, eat traditional food or speak one's native language is part of a vision for a culturally appropriate resthome. The Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust is responding to a call from the community of about 35,000 people. "Children want to see their parents happy," trust chairman Jeet Suchdev says. "I've visited so many resthomes and the people are miserable. For some there are issues with food, companionship and entertainment. "Traditionally we don't let our parents go to resthomes easily. There's always a fear in the back of my mind – who will feed them? Who will keep them happy?"
Nathans investors welcome sentences
Business Day, September 2, 2011 > LINK
An elderly couple that lost $29,000 in Nathans Finance's 2007 collapse were "deceived by the literature" provided by the company's directors, two of which were handed prison sentences of more than two years yesterday. Robert and Pamela Addis made the investment initially based on the well-respected Nathan family name, but were encouraged to continue investing by investment advertisements which High Court Justice Paul Heath later judged untrue and misleading...
Hawke's Bay kaumatua offer their memories for TV
Hawke’s Bay Today, 3 September 2011 > LINK
Joan Mohi was starting her first day at school in Whakaki, north of Wairoa, when the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake struck… That's a taste of one of the stories collected from some of the most respected kaumatua living in Ngati Kahungunu, providing a window into the golden years of their lives. The stories have been compiled and produced into a 13-episode series for Maori Television called Maumahara, which means recollections…
Clinics boost after-hours health care
Auckland Now, September 5 2011 > LINK
Aucklanders now have increased access to after-hours health care with the opening of a network of new emergency clinics across the city. Children, the elderly and low income earners will also benefit from reduced rates and shorter waiting times… the multi-million dollar move, driven by the city's three district health boards, means there will be a city-wide network of clinics open till at least 10pm on evenings, weekends and public holidays.
Older items:
Who checks up on the lonely pensioners?
TV3 News, 1 Sept 2011 > LINK
Today came the news a man named Michael Clarke, so forgotten by the world that he'd been dead for 14 months without anyone noticing, has been found in the flats of the same landlord - the Wellington City Council. Mr Clarke was a bit of a loner. But 14 months? [Includes interview with Age Concern CEO Ann Martin: Some city councils fund welfare officers to visit older people]
Death sparks call to keep in touch with neighbours
Otago Daily Times, 1 Sep 2011 > LINK
The discovery of Wellington man thought to have lain dead in his flat since last year serves as a reminder people should get to know their neighbours, says Age Concern… Age Concern NZ Chief Executive Ann Martin said this type of incident was unusual, but showed the importance of "social connectedness''. "More older people are now living alone so it's important they have plans to keep connected in some way with their community." She said people could die without anyone noticing if they were socially isolated. "We know that loneliness and social isolation are major concerns for older people... Get involved in your community and remain connected. Also make an effort to get to know your elderly neighbours.''
'Disturbing culture' at rest home
Dominion Post, 2 Sep 2011 > LINK
The death of a woman after rest home staff ignored instructions not to let her get dehydrated was the result of "a disturbing culture of non-compliance", a coroner says. Kathleen Sarah Corbett, 85, died of dehydration and respiratory failure in Hutt Hospital in July 2008, after a week at Summerset Rest Home in Upper Hutt... staff did not give her enough fluid despite clear instructions from doctors to do so… Age Concern chief executive Ann Martin said the coroner's findings painted "a very disturbing picture". "Rest homes should follow doctors' instructions as well as the home rules and policies. It's not good enough for staff to cut corners on providing healthcare to elderly residents." Summerset … said a review of rest home procedures had been carried out after Mrs Corbett's death.
Seniors in the News
Value of "Oldie Army" in post quake recovery - research
Voxy, 1 Sept 2011 > LINK
… following the February earthquake in Christchurch, the over-65s proved to be a resilient and energetic resource for recovery. PhD candidate Michael Annear's thesis … [found that] "Many of our older residents were active in the recovery process, which was evident through their support for displaced family members; counselling of friends and neighbours; clearing properties of silt and repairing earthquake damage; setting up community resources, such as temporary markets, libraries and earthquake information centres; and supporting relief workers with food and supplies," Mr Annear said… “… older people in our communities appeared to be a significant resource in the immediate aftermath and in the weeks following. As a society, we are quick to forget that older adults have a lifetime of experiences, including exposure to previous disasters, which often help them cope much better than younger adults in a crisis."
Tradeswoman, 79, hard at work on Christchurch rebuild
ONE News, Sept 1 2011 > LINK
Ruth Brown started her building business when she moved to Christchurch at the age of 56. Now aged 79, she has no regrets about moving into an industry dominated by men - or any plans to retire. "I've never advertised and I've never run out of work. I've threatened to retire, but I still can do it, so might as well keep going," … Despite more than two decades in the building industry, she often found men still tried to tell her how to do a job… The rewards of the job made it worthwhile. "What else could you do that you could fairly quickly own your own business and be your own boss, be responsible for your own work?" she said. "I can work when and how I want - and people say thank you."
National Day of Action For Quality Aged Care
Scoop 1 Sept 2011 > LINK
Members of The Service and Food Workers Union Ngā Ringa Tota and the New Zealand Nurses Organisation employed in residential aged care facilities will hit the streets tomorrow seeking public support for an aged care charter. The charter, launched in May, calls on Government to provide adequate funding for compulsory safe staffing levels, training for all staff, fair pay for the workforce and a guarantee that government funding will only be used for care of residents… NZNO spokesperson Rob Haultain said: “Caring for the elderly should not be done on the cheap. Until government funds training, safe staffing levels and fair pay for the aged care workforce, we cannot guarantee quality care for our elderly. We’re asking members of the public to sign the charter and send a clear message to government.”
Power company's 'unfair' online discount
The Star, 1 Sept 2011 > LINK
Geoff and Eve Thomson...were less than impressed with the letter's offer of a "whopping 22 per cent prompt payment discount" to customers who receive and pay their power bills online. As long-standing Contact Energy customers over many years, Mr and Mrs Thomson pay their bills on time through the Post Shop by preference, receiving a 10 per cent discount… The couple see the discrepancy between the two discount rates as "grossly unfair" and are concerned the new policy will disadvantage older people and those on low incomes who may not have access to computers and internet banking… "Contact does not accept that the discount is discriminatory to either the elderly or those on low incomes as internet use and access in New Zealand households is extremely high," Ms Bound said…Grey Power national president agreed with the Thomsons the online discount was unfair and said the organisation had heard about it from "quite a few" members. "It is unfair - there are a lot of elderly people who will never touch a computer,"
older items
Long life with sweet taste of success
DominionPost, August 31, 2011 > LINK
For Comvita founder Claude Stratford, there's a delicious irony in the fact that manuka honey, which couldn't be flogged off cheaply in the mid-1960s, is now a premium product.... the country's oldest surviving entrepreneur after recently turning 101, recalls a time when he sent a batch of manuka honey to the Honey Marketing Board to be sold. The board sent it back saying it couldn't sell the stuff, even at the cheap price of 6 pence a pound.
Tangi Insurance Trust Brings Relief to Struggling Families
Scoop , August 26, 2011 > LINK
A Maori Trust established to offer Tangi insurance and improve health outcomes for older Maori and Pasifika people is starting to bring significant relief to struggling families.
Elderly woman robbed in her Wanganui home
New Zealand Herald, August 30, 2011 > LINK
Police are appealing for public help to catch an armed man who robbed an 86-year-old woman in her Wanganui home. Constable Carla Russell said the woman was alone at her Cornfoot St, Castlecliff, home on Friday when the offender came in the back door holding what she thought was a knife, demanding money. He verbally abused her but did not attack, before making off with milk, keys and cigarettes.
Pensioner lifts car off crushed man
Nelson Mail, August 29 2011 > LINK
A retired farmer has defied age and gravity to lift a car off his crushed neighbour near Nelson.
Labour to debate aged care policy
Voxy, August 28, 2011 > LINK
The National Government has accelerated a crisis in aged care by undermining funding structures, says Labour's spokesperson for Senior Citizens and Aged Care, Steve Chadwick.
Speaking a day before leading New Zealand and international experts gather in Auckland tomorrow to debate policy priories for baby boomers in the aged care sector, Steve Chadwick said: "National is avoiding action which would prepare the public purse for the pressure baby boomers will place on superannuation and the health sector.”
Pair Devoted to Caring for the elderly
The Ashburton Guardian, August 29, 2011 > LINK
A sense of humour goes a long way in the working lives of Sue Clucas and Chris Willis.
It is work under-appreciated by the community but not by rest-home management, who say the pair have special qualities and respect for the elderly residents they care for.
Chris Willis said it was a rewarding job and being able to generate a few laughs along the way helped residents through sometimes difficult twilight years.
Older items
Age Concern Conducts Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention Seminar
Age Concern NZ, 19 Aug 2011 > READ the full release
What can you do to help stamp out elder abuse and Neglect? This challenge was set down by Age Concern’s Professional Adviser Jayne McKendry at an open forum held today at the University of Otago Medical School in Wellington…
Info for elderly may be lifesaver
Wanganui Chronicle, August 26, 2011 , http://www.wanganuichronicle.co.nz/news/info-for-elderly-may-be-lifesaver/1081460/
Wanganui's elderly have a new resource to turn to for advice about safety in their homes and within their community. Called "Safe and Sound" the publication gives advice on a raft of subjects, from dealing with pesky telemarketers, unwanted graffiti or even a pot on fire.
Age Concern national president Liz Baxendine describes Safe and Sound as a "one-stop shop for advice on safety at home and in the community"…
SOUND ADVICE: Janet Lewis, health promoter and volunteer coordinator for Age Concern Wanganui, shows off the new booklet for the elderly described as the "one-stop shop" for advice on safety in the home and the community.
Aid to stop elder abuse boosted
Manawatu Standard, 24 August 2011 http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/5498733/Aid-to-stop-elder-abuse-boosted
A $25,000 grant to Age Concern Manawatu will pay for an extra staff member for the next year to help train people to recognise and report elder abuse.
The financial support has come from the Eastern and Central Community Trust, through which 730 organisations share $4.9 million in grants. The grants covered community facilities, education, sport and recreation, culture, health, social and youth activities. Manager Sue Gould said Age Concern Manawatu applied for a grant for 20 more hours for a staff member because the workload was too much for one.
Elder abuse
Waikato Times, 22 August, 2011 http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/life-style/waikato-focus/5483837/Elder-abuse
The DVD that Gail Gilbert plays on her laptop in her office is powerful, but not pretty viewing as the stories unfold of three vulnerable, older Waikato people being ripped off by those they loved and trusted.
Ted, Janet and Lillie have lost money, possessions and pride, and Ted has also lost the will to live. In Lillie’s case, her daughter-in-law tried to smother her with a pillow, and her son withdrew thousands of dollars from her bank account...
Seniors in the news:
She's 95 and still rattling her tin for cancer
Dominion Post, 25 August 2011, http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/5502921/Shes-95-and-still-rattling-her-tin-for-cancer
After four decades of collecting for the Cancer Society, Dorothy Shea wasn't going to let a frivolous detail like old age stand in her way.
After 42 years of rattling her tin, the 95-year-old was told she was too frail to man her traditional collection booth at a Paremata supermarket. Rather than dwell on the disappointment, Mrs Shea saw no reason why she could not continue collecting at the Summerset retirement village, Aotea, where she now lives...
Elderly woman goes skydiving on a whim
Stuff.co.nz, August 25, 2011 http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5504240/Elderly-woman-goes-skydiving-on-a-whim
A 72-year-old Auckland woman on holiday in Glenorchy went skydiving on a whim ... without telling her husband. Elizabeth Olsen was staying at Blanket Bay Lodge when she decided a skydive needed to be on her bucket list. Without telephoning David, her husband of 38 years who was in Auckland, she booked a tandem jump with Skydive Paradise and leapt out of a plane, freefalling for 45 seconds from 12,000 feet…
Older items
Two days of training to combat abuse and neglect of older people
Scoop, 10 Aug 2011, > LINK
After two days of intensive training, 45 Age Concern staff from across the country are leaving Wellington better equipped to combat elder abuse and neglect. Age Concern New Zealand spokesperson Jayne McKendry says elder abuse is a relatively specialist service, making this kind of specialist training invaluable...
Taken for a Ride
Fair Go, Aug 10 2011 > LINK
Elderly people are sometimes the prey to unscrupulous sales tactics - even in their own home. Here is some advice from the experts.. Age Concern give the following advice "take your time" - don't let yourself be rushed.
Seniors in the news:
Buddhist group keeps giving
Eastern Courier, Aug 10, 2011 > LINK
Blankets made from plastic bottles will keep Middlemore Hospital's elderly patients warm this winter. Fifteen Da Ai Eco-Green blankets and six wheelchairs have been donated to the adult rehabilitation and health of older people wards by the Tzu Chi Buddhist Compassion Relief group.
Support workers afraid of filthy boarding houses
Radio Live / 3 News, Aug 11, 2011 > LINK
There are calls for boarding houses to be put on a register, as some are filthy and a health risk. Some support workers are too afraid to visit clients if it means going into a hostel. Wellington Health officials are taking part in a parliamentary select committee inquiry, calling on the government to do more to ensure the safety, particularly of the elderly, who turn to hostels as a last resort.
Over-60s at highest risk of Melanoma
Manawatu Standard, 10 Aug, 2011 > LINK
New Zealanders over the age of 60 wrongly believe skin cancer is more likely to happen to younger people, according to research by Otago University. The Cancer Society... is now concerned older people seem to think they are at lower risk of developing fatal melanoma...
Resident checks 'not enough'
The Marlborough Express, 11 Aug, 2011 > LINK
Ryman Healthcare managing director Simon Challies says it is unlikely the death of a person living in one of their apartments would go undiscovered again. However, Marlborough woman Myra Giese is not convinced Ryman is doing enough to prevent a repeat of the circumstances in which her former husband, Richard, lay dead on the floor of his apartment at Rita Angus village in Wellington for 12 days …
older items
Reside with me
Aucklander, 10 Aug 2011 > LINK
... Last month, the Housing Ministry approved $500,000 for the Selwyn foundation to build a family home - a large residence with shared facilities - for 10-12 single, elderly people …many of those folk may not have the money to buy into a retirement village so it is hoped this will provide a viable alternative. "We need to make sure we care for those with little or no money. Our 80-plus age-group will quadruple in the next 10 years…. If it's successful we will expand and develop this across Auckland and potentially New Zealand."
Age Concern North Shore's executive officer, Janferie Bryce-Chapman, strongly supports the project. "There's a huge shortage of housing in Auckland and older people are often marginalised because of their lack of income. About 30 per cent are living on the pension alone, and low-cost entry housing is very much needed. Single, elderly people are often lonely and she believes shared housing is a good solution.
Countdown Senior New Zealander of the Year Award Nominations
Scoop, 9 Aug 2011 > LINK
Nominations are now open for the Countdown Senior New Zealander of the Year award, celebrating outstanding service, achievements and contributions from senior New Zealanders… the company was proud to honour and thank senior New Zealanders who have been inspirations to their communities. "It's so easy for us to overlook the wealth of experience and wisdom our senior Kiwis have, and this award really celebrates the service, tireless efforts, and exceptional contributions seniors make to our communities,"… "We encourage all New Zealanders to nominate a senior Kiwi who they think has done something great in their community and deserves recognition…
Health of Older People a priority
from CEO Chat Sheet, Bay of Plenty District Health Board, 5 Aug 2011
"Our Board has identified Health of Older People as a priority and aims to manage proactively the services required for this ballooning population. The emphasis will be on wellness, encouraging healthy independent living with access to quality services and when, eventually required, palliative care."…
"We need to be thinking about how as a DHB we respond to the inevitable growth in demand within both our hospitals and the community services we provide, and in the way we contract services provided by others in the community... It is good to see the Board challenging management to find ways of ensuring that as people age, health services are able to respond by not only caring when care is needed, but ensuring that people can have the longest independent quality of life achievable."
Senior citizens struggle with cost of living – Steve Chadwick
Rotorua Daily Post, 9 Aug 2011 > LINK
Are you one of those people who are caught in the middle? I have no option but to keep pointing out that it is those in the middle who are struggling to get by… The cost of living is always at the top of the list … – the high cost of batteries for hearing aids, food items now a distant memory, such as cream on cake, fresh milk, fruit and vegetables, chocolate treats, the cost of parking when visiting the big hospitals if one is still lucky enough to have a car. And the cost of petrol is always raised every time. Worst of all for senior citizens is the cost of keeping warm… This all arises because we now have ever-increasing income inequality, which is another dimension of the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer. Age Concern produced a paper in 2011 showing that the slippage means that some people are unable to cover a basic standard of living. Labour believes that removal of tax on the first $5000 income will be a huge boost to those struggling, as will the removal of GST on fresh fruit and vegetables…
Volunteers lend a hand to uninsured
Timaru Herald, 8 Aug 2011 > LINK
…community group Addington Action began repair work on uninsured homes in the area occupied by the elderly… "A lot of the houses don't have major damage. It's all little things really, but for an 85-year-old or whoever, they can't be expected to get on to the roof or do stuff like that." …
'A tiny lady with indomitable spirit'
Otago Daily Times, 9 Aug 2011 > LINK
Awarding Nancy Wake a Returned and Services Association Badge of Gold – the only New Zealand recognition of her war heroism - was a highlight of his presidency of the RNZRSA, Dunedin man John Campbell says. Ms Wake, a British agent who fought with the French Resistance during World War 2, died in England on Sunday three weeks short of her 99th birthday. The New Zealand-born woman saved hundreds of Allied lives during the war by getting them back to England from Europe…
Paper deliverer on hand in crisis
NZ Herald Friday Aug 5, 2011 > LINK
A frail and injured 79-year-old woman was rescued after spending a long, cold night on the footpath near her Papamoa home. The woman had collapsed on to the cold concrete pavement near her Laguna Key home at about 11.30pm… Herald delivery woman Vanessa Cranswick found her on Wednesday morning lying on the footpath with a badly bruised face and broken teeth… Tauranga Age Concern board chairwoman Angela Scott described the incident as shocking and concerning. "Thank goodness the woman was found when she was." Mrs Scott said it was important for people to have the "support of family, friends and close neighbours who can check up on us".
Epic journey to shed light on glaucoma
Southland Times, 4 August 2011 > LINK
Arthritis, glaucoma and paralysis have not stopped one determined 75-year-old man…. Doug Wilson, from Tauranga, made it to Bluff this week with the help of his Nordic walking sticks after setting off from Cape Reinga on June 20, walking about 10-15km a day. The walk was to raise awareness of glaucoma and how it can affect the community, and funds for research.Mr Wilson was diagnosed with glaucoma last year, but has been treated."The sooner you get treatment, you've got a better quality of life."
Home health services must prove their value – expert
3 News, 5 August 2011
One of New Zealand's largest social service providers says it's time for home health support services to prove their effectiveness, as a New Zealand Home Health Association (NZHHA) conference takes place in Wellington this week. Presbyterian Support Northern chief executive Rod Watts says it is critical for providers "to prove their programme is making a difference". Government is "increasingly wanting demonstration" of the benefit of funded services, and recipients of the services will also benefit…
Kapiti District Council says no-go - Elderly Couple left pushing lawn-mower
http://www.3news.co.nz/One-elderly-couples-grassy-struggle/tabid/817/articleID/220934/Default.aspx
A berm is that piece of lawn between your property and the road… Vicky and Lou Greoneweg have a very large one, and for the last two decades they've mowed it. But they're getting on a bit now - and would like the local council to take up the work… Reporter Richard Langston met the elderly couple left pushing the lawn-mower.
Affordable housing for Hastings elderly
Voxy, 3 August, 2011
http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/affordable-housing-hastings-elderly/5/96937
Hastings residents in need of affordable housing are being urged to place an application with Hastings District Council, as a number of the Council's housing units are soon to become available. The Council has nine complexes located around the district and is committed to supporting older citizens by providing affordable, well-maintained and comfortable homes in a friendly and safe environment. The units are an extremely low maintenance option…
Experts say NZ not doing too bad with unemployment
3 News, 4 August, 2011
… unemployment has remained steady at 6.5 percent for the June quarter. The real surprise of the survey came in the shape of jobs added. Lynley Choat retired last year but missed working so much she went back. "I don't want to be a moaning old person," says Ms Choat. "I want to have a positive life and to wake up every morning and have something to look forward to." At 70, Ms Choat is not alone. She is one of almost 14,000, 65 years of age plus, who have gained employment in the last 12 months. In the last year the 65 plus and 20-24 age groups have pushed up the number of employed. 2,214,000 have jobs, which is an increase of 43,000.
Elderly Nelson couple end lives together- Care issues raised
Nelson Mail 3 August 2011 > LINK
An elderly Nelson couple have ended their lives as they spent them – together...Betty Avis Jackson, 84, was ill and in an apparent suicide pact she and her husband Desmond Sidney Jackson, 88, took their own lives ...when police entered the house about 1pm yesterday they found the couple both deceased in an apparent assisted suicide/suicide. Age Concern manager Sue Tilby said today sometimes the thought of parting after all those years together was too hard and she could almost understand that. "It isn't ideal, but it is very, very sad...The situation involving the Nelson couple was probably difficult to read, but if people were aware of others living in vulnerable situations or who could be at risk in the community they should alert the authorities and other support agencies.
Age Concern was available to help support people who did not have a lot of family around them.
Elderly abuse reports on rise
Bay of Plenty Times, 28 Jul 2011 > LINK
...Western Bay branch of Age Concern has gone from receiving eight to nine complaints of abuse a month to 22 complaints... Jane Broughton took over as the local branch of Age Concern's elder abuse and neglect prevention co-ordinator in February ... As a result of the influx of complaints, the Ministry of Social Development has extended Mrs Broughton's hours to deal with them. The majority of the referrals related to financial, verbal or psychological abuse, a lot of which was being done by family members... she had already dealt with two cases since February where an elderly person's life savings had been cleaned out by a family member.
...Often the money was taken in bits and pieces off an ATM card or via internet banking by a family member... There were cases of children stepping in when their parents became ill and "bullying them into resthomes" without the proper authority.
Other cases related to people outside the family befriending an older person and taking advantage of them. "Be aware of people who turn up in an older person's life. Also be aware if your parent is going through a lot of money...
Seniors in the news:
Research finds keys to healthy community
Voxy, 27 Jul 2011 > LINK
What life lessons did previous generations of young people need to learn before they became adults? Could these rites of passage provide some answers to the multiple challenges facing young Maori today? These two questions were the foundation for a three year national project led by Gisborne researcher Manu Caddie… "It's been a fairly drawn out process, some of the people interviewed have since passed away, so the footage we have of their stories is very significant to their families" ...The way society is structured now we tend to segregate the age groups and the wisdom of older people is lost if they do not have the opportunity to share it with the younger generations coming through."… While the project focused on Maori experiences, Mr Caddie believes the principles and lessons learnt can be applied across any cultural group...
Rosalie's pictures go on tour of Europe
Wanganui Chronicle, 29 Jul 2011 > LINK
Fashion designer, pilot and amateur photographer - Rosalie Gwilliam chooses subjects as diverse as nude men in bondage and Mob leaders with bulldogs for her pictures… Gwilliam, 72, has been a keen photographer since the age of 8. Now retired, she spends nearly all her time and money on photography… She has just had 53 of her photographs accepted for the Trierenberg Super Circuit - a personal best.
Commissioner says OCR debate needn't be cause for concern
Voxy, 28 Jul 2011 > LINK
... the Retirement Commissioner… Diana Crossan says record inflation along with high petrol and food prices are putting increased pressure on household budgets. "It's easy to be rattled by all the doom and gloom talk, and to feel alarmed by inflation fluctuations and talk of upcoming OCR increases. But the way to deal with the uncertainty is to take control of your own finances…” Ms Crossan is urging people to take charge of their financial planning so that changes in the economy don't catch them out...
Christchurch's quake highlights the importance of Age Concern's work
Scoop, 22 Jul 2011 > LINK to the full item
Christchurch's quakes have 'sharply exposed' the needs of older people says Age Concern National President Liz Baxendine. Addressing a group in Oamaru, Mrs Baxendine reflected on having a new gratitude for even having the basic needs of food, water and shelter met. Age Concern works to inform and empower older people to live healthy, active and engaged lives...
Weather affects Meals on Wheels delivery
Otago Daily Times, 26 Jul 2011 > LINK
Snow prompted the Southern District Health Board to cancel Meals on Wheels in Dunedin yesterday for the first time Wendy Patterson could recall in the 28 years she had been helping the service. The Otago Age Concern driver co-ordinator said it was a "wee bit sad" the service was cancelled… she accepted the DHB had had to make the call, and make it early enough to get the word out… On previous snow days, recipients often expressed surprise and delight upon receiving their meal, and she expected those affected yesterday had not been greatly put out. Community support services general manager Elaine Chisnall, through a DHB spokeswoman, said the service was cancelled because of the treacherous road conditions and road closures. "[Age Concern] organises transport as part of their contract but ... the conditions were too hazardous today to deliver meals."
Seniors in the news:
Family lead Trimmer a merry dance
Dominion Post, 26 Jul 2011 > LINK
…Tripping the light fantastic is certainly in Sir Jon Trimmer's blood. The 71-year-old doyen of New Zealand ballet has traced his family history and found not only dancers, musicians, artists and potters' skeletons in the cupboard but also a colourful mix of bigamists, bankrupts and ancestors belonging to quirky religious sects... Clocking up 53 years with the New Zealand Ballet, Sir Jon will rejoin the company later this year to take part in Sleeping Beauty. Sir Jon will present his colourful family story at Kapiti Genealogy's 2011 production of Why You Are You at Southward Theatre on August 18.
NZ-long walk to raise awareness of glaucoma
Marlborough Express, 26 Jul 2011 > LINK
A 75-year-old Grey Power member passed through Marlborough at the weekend on his journey from Cape Reinga to Bluff to raise awareness of glaucoma… Tauranga resident Doug Wilson started on June 20, intending to walk the entire length of the country… Mr Wilson said he wanted to raise awareness so that people would get eye problems checked out as soon as they appeared…
Warmer, healthier seniors makes economic and human sense
Scoop, Press Release: United Future NZ Party, 26 Jul 2011 > LINK
Peter Dunne today launched two policies to keep older New Zealanders warmer and healthier, saying both were about making New Zealand the kind of country it should be and made economic sense. In announcing the Winter Warmer top-up of $50 a month for superannuitants for the three coldest months of the year when their power bills reach $150, and a free annual Warrant of Fitness health check for over-65s, he said it was time New Zealand “did the maths and dropped short term economics”...the $25 cost of the annual Warrant of Fitness health check for each senior citizen “would be tiny” when balanced against the $880 a day hospital tab picked up by the taxpayer when conditions not got on to early are far more serious and far more expensive to treat…
Older items
Assisting elderly with their needs
Ashburton Guardian, 21 Jul 2011 > LINK
Age might be something we prefer not to think about, but barring an early death, it’s something we’ll all have to deal with, says Age Concern national president Liz Baxendine. She was in Ashburton this week, meeting with members of the Ashburton council and getting a handle on the issues of concern for the district’s elderly. “It’s important for me to hear at grass roots what these are because of our consultative role with the Government. We’re a large force of people and we’re able to be the voice of older people to Government ears, but we’re not a lobby group like Grey Power. We’re a-political and we’re the providers of a lot of services,” Mrs Baxendine said.
“It’s important people understand that Age Concern is not a club. Membership is just a bit of money coming in, but no older person will ever be turned away…
Seniors in the news:
First steps to set up first village inside Christchurch CBD
The first steps have been taken in a bid to set up the first community village inside Christchurch’s quake-hit central business district… `` to together envisage transforming the devastation and rubble from the earthquakes into a lovely safe, sustainable village… where people work and live with a good mixture of ages, babies, young, middle and older people around friendly spaces.’’… ``We are also exploring the idea of setting up a community society. This would provide the Peterborough Village with an organisation to formally represent the community,’’
Dunne calls for superannuation flexibility
National Business Review, 22 July 2011 > LINK
Revenue Minister Peter Dunne… said New Zealanders should be able to access superannuation at reduced rates from the age of 60, or claim it at enhanced rates if they hold off from accessing it between the ages of 66 and 70. “Kiwis would then be able to choose retirement age and lifestyle – choices they currently do not have – and it would be cost neutral with the current scheme,”…The long term sustainability of superannuation could be addressed if KiwiSaver was made compulsory…
Vitamin a tool in care of aged
Local doctors and nurses will be schooling up on the merits of Vitamin D when a visiting expert comes to Wanganui later this year. The visit of Professor Ngaire Kerse is linked to a campaign …to get increased doses of Vitamin D to those living in aged care facilities around the region … Statistics show that about a third of adults over 65 will fall each year and as they get older, the risk of falling increases, with the number rising to 50 per cent at age 80… Research had shown a significant association between muscle strength and Vitamin D levels and reducing the number of falls was now a priority for ACC and the Ministry of Health.
Difficulties for Health Boards in Dealing With the Elderly
Scoop, 21 Jul 2011 Press Release: Hope Foundation > LINK
Difficult relationships with primary health organisations (PHOs), poor home-based services and problems with IT remain key issues for District Health Boards dealing with the country’s growing elderly population. These are the findings of an independent report released today by the HOPE Foundation for Research on Ageing… DHBs are still facing considerable challenges in implementing successful strategies to deal with our ageing citizens.”… “Our research shows collaboration and good collegial relationships are key to achieving change…
Retirement village residents feel uninformed - report
Radio New Zealand, 21 July 2011 > LINK
Many retirement village residents feel poorly informed about fee increases and other changes, and operators are being urged to improve communication. The Retirement Commissioner's office on Thursday released its report on the residences from the occupants' perspective… people primarily move to retirement villages for security reasons but are often unclear about fee increases, reductions in services, and changes in operation or ownership. Many residents claimed they felt anxious and uninformed about the future of their village…
Pixie Williams' classic digitally remastered
Hutt News, 21 Jul 2011 > LINK
After 62 years, a piece of New Zealand's music history has been rejuvenated for a new generation to appreciate. For The Record - The Pixie Williams Collection … was launched last week on Pixie Williams' 83rd birthday. It features her greatest hit, Blue Smoke, composed by Ruru Karaitiana…originally released in February 1949 … Ms Williams could not read music but taught herself to play guitar, ukulele, the banjo and piano accordion and, at 73, decided to teach herself the organ - for something to do… "When you have music in your heart, it stays with you. "It kept me sane in the hard times. Forget the pills - when you've got music in your life you'll be OK."
older items
Age Concern New Zealand says you've got the power!
>VIEW our full Media Release here
Age Concern National President Liz Baxendine encourages anybody concerned about their power bill to take advantage of a competitive market and shop around…
Suicide 'not just a youth issue'
Nelson Mail, 18 Jul 2011 >LINK
Elderly suicides could be "slipping under the radar", and support workers are trying to raise awareness about an issue they say could get worse as the number of older people grows… Nelson-Marlborough older men had some of the highest suicide rates in the world. New Zealand also had high rates for that group. [Nelson Bays Primary Health suicide prevention co-ordinator David Hough said] "And we suspect there's under-reporting in the elderly age group” Loss of spouse, health, independence and social isolation could all lead towards depression, and that then increased risk of suicide…Initiatives which provided social connections, such as the volunteer service run by Age Concern, also helped, he said. Age Concern Nelson manager Sue Tilby said there was "hugely low awareness" about suicide and elderly. "Most of those cases you could attribute to somebody being very lonely. "Often, it's people whose spouse has died. They tend to start being quite neglectful towards themselves because they don't have the ability to carry on alone. "I definitely believe it's a problem. If only we could intervene every time ...
Three charities accept a bit of charity
Marlborough Express, 19 Jul 2011 >LINK
Three Marlborough charities yesterday received a share of $12,000 from United Way… Representatives of Age Concern, Lifeline and the Riversdale Community House collected their cheques … The grants were for running costs rather than special projects or trips because of the difficulty getting funding for basic costs… Age Concern chairwoman Jane Laing said the money would go towards paying rent. "If we can't have an office we don't have a base. It means that other funding that we get can be put into other projects."
Seniors in the news:
Te reo pioneer mourned
Waikato Times, 19 Jul 2011 >LINK
Dame Katerina Te Heikoko Mataira is being hailed as one of Maoridom's great leaders, just days after her death… weeks after being made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her service to the language. Dame Katerina, who was born in Tokomaru Bay in 1932, was a key founder of the Maori language programme Te Ataarangi and the Kura Kaupapa movement, and was at the forefront of the revival of te reo Maori for more than 40 years…
Elderly compromised by lack of quality home-based care
NZ Doctor, 15 Jul 2011 Media Release: Elder Family Matters >LINK
New Zealanders should be concerned at the lack of quality control in the in-home care industry…Elder Family Matters general manager Lawrie Stewart says. "While home-based support services can be critical to the continued health and well-being of older people, the quality and adequacy of government-funded services is highly variable and often poorly managed," …the report failed to provide strong recommendations to improve the quality of home-support services. "With a turnover of support workers of between 50 per cent and 80 per cent annually, few elderly people can confidently retain the services of a support worker who they get to know and trust. Mr Stewart supports the report's recommendation that an in-home care certification standard (New Zealand Standard (8158)) be made mandatory…
Sharing magic of theatre
Otago Daily Times, 19 Jul 2011 >LINK
The latest Fortune Theatre play has taken veteran Dunedin director Hilary Norris full circle… "It's such a pleasure, as a grandparent, to take your grandchild to live theatre.. Super Nan, which opened at the Fortune yesterday [is] about a young boy, called Josh, who thinks old people are really boring. "He's got a superhero who does daring deeds called 'Super Nan'… "Along the way, Josh realises his grandma is a much more exciting character than he thought."
Older items
Focus on aged care
Otago Daily Times 16 Jul 2011 > LINK
Some Otago home-based care agencies do not investigate client complaints using a third party, suggesting a top-level recommendation for a standardised complaints system was warranted, Age Concern Otago social worker Marie Bennett says. The auditor-general this week released a performance audit report of home-based support services...Mrs Bennett said "Sometimes it's actually easier when it's an outside person dealing [with an issue] and [providers are] funded by the DHB so, ... in my mind, the DHB should know what's going on."
Over-65s let off jury service under new bill
Otago Daily Times, 12 Jul 2011 http://www.odt.co.nz/news/politics/168836/over-65s-let-jury-service-under-new-bill
People aged over 65 will have the option of being permanently excused from jury service after a parliamentary committee decided not to amend proposed legislation…
The Human Rights Commission last month objected to the clause …
The committee noted the concern in its report…"At the same time, however, we note that there is currently no mechanism to allow those who choose permanent excusal to opt back in at a later date …
Simon Power said. "I want to make it clear that the Government values the contribution that people over 65, with their considerable life experience, bring to this important civic duty."
Auditor-General's report published - Home-based support services
Voxy 12 Jul 2011 http://www.voxy.co.nz/health/auditor-generals-report-published-home-based-support-services/5/94865
Lyn Provost, Controller and Auditor-General:
… home-based support services can be critical to the continued health and well-being of older people… this report discusses how effectively the Ministry of Health (the Ministry) and district health boards (DHBs) are ensuring that, where appropriate, older people get the care and support they need to remain living independently at home…
generally, services appear to be delivered adequately. However, this is a qualified view because the Ministry and DHBs do not have reliable information to confirm an assessment… [they] need to address the current deficiencies in performance information about home-based support services.
There is no mandatory standard for home-support service providers and DHBs do not have a consistent and robust approach to managing quality. I am therefore unable to give positive assurance about the quality and consistency of services throughout the country…
There were very few recorded complaints about home-based support services, but no-one knows whether that is because there are very few problems or whether it reflects the vulnerability of older people …older people have access to home-based support services, and their needs are assessed and services are delivered in a timely way. I note that there is evidence of some inconsistency and inequity in how home-based support services are assessed and allocated. The methods that DHBs use to assess the needs of older people are becoming more consistent through the introduction of an internationally accredited assessment tool, InterRAI. However, its effectiveness will need to be reviewed.
Risks to the quality of home-based support services
The combination of increased demand, more complex support needs, and financial pressures presents a significant risk to future delivery of home-based support services.
DHBs have recognised that one of the biggest risks they need to manage is the ability of their service providers to supply a suitably qualified and well-supervised workforce. To meet this challenge, DHBs will need to work collaboratively with providers to ensure that providers will continue to have the staff they need to deliver services. Stronger contract management by DHBs would also help ensure that quality standards are met.
I have made five recommendations …
Seniors 'too proud' to complain about help cuts
Southland Times, 11 July 2011 http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/news/5264509/Seniors-too-proud-to-complain-about-help-cuts
Grey Power Southland president Geoff Piercy will keep fighting "cruel" cuts to home help for the elderly, even after the Human Rights Commission said there was little it could do … the response he received from the Human Rights Commission said there was no way to prove the policy was discriminating against elderly, and therefore it was not a breach of human rights.
Politicians reject pension age increase
Dominion Post 12/07/2011 > LINK
Politicians across the board have brushed off growing calls to lift the retirement age. Retirement Commissioner Diana Crossan this afternoon lashed out over the Government's response to her three-yearly review of retirement income policy… “Politicians appear to have their heads in the sand about the issue of the raising the age of eligibility." Prime Minister John Key [says] "In the end the best way... is to have a strong economy that produces the revenue that the Government can then deploy to make sure we can deliver the services we want. One of those is obviously pensions.'' Labour leader Phil Goff said he would not make the same commitment as Key, but lifting the age was not being considered by his party "at this time''. Green Party co-leader Russel Norman said there was a problem that needed to be debated, but his party was not calling for the age to go up.
Manaakitanga good for older people
Age Concern Media Release, 1 July 2011
“For Age Concern New Zealand, this year’s Māori Language Week official theme of ‘Manaakitanga’ is especially welcome."
Respect, rights, responsibilities for older people – Age Concern
Age Concern Media Release, 30 June 2011
We need a culture of greater respect for older people, Age Concern National President Liz Baxendine said in a speech today... “There is a great underlying need: for older people to be respected. This includes many things: being able to live as and where we wish; being able to participate in the community; having sufficient income to maintain quality of life, including affordable healthcare.”
“These are basic human rights.”
Older drivers learn new tricks about cars
Wanganui Chronicle, 5 July 2011 > LINK
…Another CarFit programme was recently held in Wanganui, backed by Age Concern Wanganui and Horizons Regional Council, and about 30 drivers took part. The programme takes the drivers through a 12-point check- list, with volunteers and AA staff showing them how they can personally "fit" their vehicle. Those checks include showing drivers how to properly position their seat and steering wheel for comfortable driving, as well as showing them how the vehicle controls work… CarFit worked in neatly with the safe-driving course Age Concern has been running… Ellen Mildon, injury prevention consultant for ACC, said word of mouth was getting people to the CarFit sessions...
Retirement village beckons displaced Christchurch elderly
The Star, 5 July 2011 > LINK
A new $100 million dollar retirement village in North East Christchurch will be home to 450 residents and employ more than 150 staff… Ryman managing director Simon Challies said the new 120 room rest home, hospital and dementia care facility will allow many people to return home. "We see the new village as a way in which we can contribute to the rebuilding of our hometown, by establishing a flourishing and caring community for the older people of north-east Christchurch... We hope our display of confidence will inspire others to invest in the rebuild."
Further changes likely for KiwiSaver
Otago Daily Times, 4 Jul 2011 > LINK
…From Friday, the member tax credit paid by the Government into each KiwiSaver account to boost savings was cut by 50%... However, Dunedin financial adviser Peter Smith said despite the budget reducing the tax incentive, KiwiSaver was still a good scheme because it was locked into "retiring age", whenever that might be… Forsyth Barr savings specialist Damian Foster… predicted that KiwiSaver would eventually become compulsory for all employees aged between 18 and 65… The other two things Mr Foster would like to see introduced was KiwiSaver becoming compulsory and agreement between the major political parties not to tinker with the scheme...
Elder issues raised at health forum
Otago Daily Times, 4 Jul 2011 > LINK
More than 30 Wakatipu residents raised issues of elderly care, rest-home facilities and transfers to Invercargill Hospital and voiced concern over which sector would manage the proposed integrated family health centre, with the National Health Board (NHB) on Friday.… The panel met doctors and nurses from the Lakes District Hospital again on Thursday… "Overall, the panel is very pleased with the way the community is engaged with us and the feedback at this stage is very positive."
Last month's items - Age Concern in the news
Concerns after elderly neglect complaint
Wanganui Chronicle, 28 June 2011 > LINK
Age Concern Wanganui has expressed its concern over allegations of Wanganui Hospital providing inadequate care to a 93-year-old woman… sent home when she was unwell and needed hospital care… Yesterday Age Concern Wanganui manager Tracy Lynn said she was disappointed... "While this may not necessarily constitute abuse as we know it, it certainly falls under the category of neglect and that is something we need to take very seriously. …her organisation spent a lot of its time encouraging the positive aspects of ageing and trying to discourage "ageist attitudes" in the community… The district health board has confirmed it is carrying out an investigation… Meanwhile, Age Concern's national office has called on both the government and district health boards to take a serious look at the affordability and suitability of after-hours care provisions for the elderly…
Active living keeps older brains ticking
North Shore Times, 28 June 2011 > LINK
Older people are making the most of what the Shore has to offer, North Shore Age Concern's health promoter Katie Rom says. There is an abundance of groups and outdoor activities for older people to pursue and it seems they are leading active lives… that helps older people stay mobile and allows them to keep living independent lives… 65-year-olds made up 11 percent of the North Shore population in 2007 and that's expected to double to 22 percent by 2046 – an additional 40,000 people aged over 65 … June Shaw, 81, a member of the 60s Up Takapuna Brunch, says the key is to keep your mind active with lots of different activities, both mental and physical.
Age Concern Nelson manager Sue Tilby said there were going to be a very large number of people needing support services over the next 10 to 30 years. "It's just huge. It's going to be a major change or shift for the country in terms of where services are going to be needed.
Mixed rooms upset patients
Auckland Now 16/09/2011 > LINK
Older people feel uncomfortable at having to share hospital wards with the opposite sex, North Shore Age Concern's Jennie Michel says. The elder abuse co-ordinator says it can be embarrassing for older people who are using the same bathrooms in mixed hospital wards. "It is a problem for older people, but I understand hospitals need to utilise all the beds," the registered nurse says. Waitemata District Health Board chief operating officer Alan Wilson says single gender rooms are a big focus at North Shore and Waitakere Hospital. English stroke specialist Gerry McGonigal says many New Zealand hospitals are failing to notice and prioritise issues around patient dignity. "We must start to notice the environment in which we are caring for vulnerable elders within acute hospitals," he says.
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