16 July 2002

National Commits More Funding To Elderly, Introduces Veterans Card

National will increase funding for carer relief, education and to aged residential care facilities, National Senior Citizens Spokesperson Dr Lynda Scott said today releasing Nationals Senior Citizens policy.

"National believes in assisting people to remain independent and living in their own environment for as long as is safe for them. Our Ageing at Home policy encourages this.

"National will ensure that every district health board will have a dedicated health service for older people, and we will investigate separating health services for older people from disability support.

"We will recognise the contribution of New Zealand servicemen and women by introducing a Veterans Card which will give veterans priority access to health care services where there is an assessed need.

"Superannuation is a right of citizenship. National is committed to provide New Zealand Superannuation at 65% of the average wage for a couple at 65 years," Dr Scott said.

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