# Supporting Older People to Live Well Longer

**Source Organisation:** Ministry of Social Development
**Publication Date:** 2025
**Original Source URL:** https://www.msd.govt.nz/documents/about-msd-and-our-work/publications-resources/information-releases/cabinet-papers/2025/supporting-older-people-to-live-well-longer/paper-supporting-older-people-to-live-well-longer.pdf
**Source PDF Link:** https://www.msd.govt.nz/documents/about-msd-and-our-work/publications-resources/information-releases/cabinet-papers/2025/supporting-older-people-to-live-well-longer/paper-supporting-older-people-to-live-well-longer.pdf
**Category:** policy-legislation
**Document Type:** PDF
**Document ID:** doc-0512
**Tags:** #policy-legislation #NZ #older-people #disability #social-support #pip-evidence

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## Key Facts & Findings

- At least 15% of older people experience multiple disadvantage.
- Thirty-five percent of people aged 65+ living in households were disabled; institutional residential facilities were outside the survey population.
- Across disabled people of all ages living in households, 62% reported at least one unmet care or support need.
- Ninety-six percent of older people are enrolled with a general practice.
- The evidence argues for targeted, navigable support rather than a one-size-fits-all model.

## Summary & Research Notes

This MSD Cabinet paper examines how government can support older people to live well for longer. It highlights multiple disadvantage, disability and unmet support need among older people, while showing that most are connected to primary care. The evidence supports earlier, easier navigation into practical and health supports rather than assuming one uniform older population.

## Evidence & Quality Scores

- **Authority Score:** 5/100
- **Freshness Score:** 5/100
- **Relevance Score:** 5/100
- **Knowledge Base Value:** 5/100
- **Target Audience:** Policy makers, social-sector agencies, and older-person service providers