Supporting Older People to Live Well Longer
Ministry of Social Development
Official data
Official primary
August 2026
Next review not yet scheduled
New Zealand
High confidence
published
SNZ editorial review
Evidence boundary: This record summarises the cited source. It does not establish local availability, individual eligibility, or professional advice.
Short Answer
This MSD Cabinet paper examines how government can support older people to live well for longer.
Key Points
- •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.
Full Summary & 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.
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Document Details & Metadata
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