Media Release: Age Concern New Zealand

Friday March 2, 2012

Age Concern New Zealand Conference

What matters to older people? This question will be the focus of Age Concern New Zealand’s annual Conference and AGM later this month.

The organisation’s National President Liz Baxendine is delighted a range of high-profile speakers such as economist Susan Guthrie, Minister for Senior Citizens
Hon Jo Goodhew and Hon Tariana Turia will form part of the exciting line-up.

“This is a conference not to be missed by anybody who works with or has an interest in older people,” she says.

Hon Jo Goodhew will discuss Government action on the needs of vulnerable, abused and socially isolated people while Hon Tariana Turia delves into Whānau Ora and older people.

Susan Guthrie, an economist with the Morgan Foundation and co-author of “The Big Kahuna” will explore what the future holds for older New Zealanders.

Mrs Baxendine says another conference highlight will be a panel discussion asking if “dignity goes out the window when older people enter the health system.”

“Participants including the Coroner, New Zealand Aged Care CEO, a professional nursing advisor, a geriatrician and the Director of Palliative Care at Mary Potter Hospice, are sure to make this an interesting and thought-provoking panel.”

There are now close to 600,000 older New Zealanders, a figure which will only increase.

“Older people form a very significant part of our society so this conference will be of interest to a great range of people.”

Mrs Baxendine warmly invites the media to attend day one of the conference on Tuesday March 27 in the Conference Centre at Comfort and Quality Hotels on Cuba Street in Wellington.

“It will be a fantastic opportunity for journalists to increase their knowledge base regarding important issues for older people.”

ENDS

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