rtificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the aged care sector, offering innovative solutions that enhance care, improve efficiency, and increase safety. As the global population ages, AI is helping address challenges such as staff shortages, rising healthcare costs, and the need for personalised care. AI systems analyse data from wearables and sensors to create personalised care plans, predicting potential health issues like falls or infections and allowing for timely interventions before a situation escalates. This capability helps improve outcomes for elderly individuals, providing proactive care and reducing health risks.
In addition to health management, AI supports independence through robotics and assistive technologies. AI-powered robots assist with mobility, medication reminders, and even provide companionship, combating loneliness, especially for residents with dementia. Robotic "friends," such as robotic cats and dogs, offer emotional support by mimicking the behaviour of real pets, providing comfort and mental stimulation. These robots can reduce feelings of isolation, offering a source of joy and interaction without the responsibility of caring for a live animal. These technologies complement human caregivers who remain central to providing quality care, ensuring residents feel supported both emotionally and physically.
AI also plays a significant role in virtual care and telemedicine, facilitating remote consultations and improving the efficiency of care delivery. These platforms allow healthcare professionals to access real-time data and support decisionmaking, making care more accessible and costeffective. For residents with mobility or cognitive challenges, AI-driven devices ensure they can maintain social connections and interact with their environment more easily.
However, the increasing reliance on AI in
aged care brings new risks. Data privacy and security are major concerns, as AI systems collect and store sensitive information. If not properly protected, this data can be vulnerable to cyberattacks, including ransomware. Cybercriminals may target AI systems to steal personal information or disrupt care services, endangering residents’ safety and well-being. Furthermore, AI systems are susceptible to manipulation. Hackers could alter algorithms or input data, leading to incorrect health assessments or medication errors, which could have serious consequences for patients.
To mitigate these risks, aged care providers must implement strong cybersecurity measures, such as encryption and access controls, and regularly train staff on identifying phishing scams and securing personal health information. It is also vital that regulations surrounding AI in healthcare evolve to address these new risks, focusing on transparency, accountability, and ethical use.
AI has the potential to revolutionise aged care by improving care delivery and supporting independence. However, it is crucial that providers balance innovation with strong safeguards to protect residents from security threats. With thoughtful implementation, AI can significantly enhance the quality of care but only while ensuring the privacy and safety of elderly individuals.
Tania Walters, Publisher tania@reviewmags.com
THE BUSINESS OF RETIREMENT VILLAGES & AGED CARE
PUBLISHER: Tania Walters
GENERAL MANAGER: Kieran Mitchell
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Sarah Mitchell
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Caitlan Mitchell
EDITORIAL ASSOCIATES: Sam Francks, Jenelle Sequeira
New Zealand’s largest-ever study of dementia, the IDEA Project - Impact of Dementia mate wareware and Equity in Aotearoa, has released its first round of findings after one full year of research.
12 Calls for Broader Medicine Consideration
Campaigners for better dementia and Alzheimer’s care have passionately rallied for better medication for those battling cognitive diseases.
14 Changing the Face of Aged Care
Before you read on, pause for a moment and ask yourself: what do you see when you imagine yourself at 85? Where do you live? Are you well, mobile, clear eyed, and sharp minded?
16 Connecting with AI
From robots to smart toilets and metallic exoskeletons, Artificial Intelligence and technology have the potential to revolutionise aged care in Australia, because it’s already happening around the world, according to a leading tech expert.
18 Virtual Future on the Horizon
The inclusion of technology into aged and retirement care has created more opportunities for providers to experiment with modern service avenues.
22 A Healthier Future
New Zealanders have been urged to eat more fruit and vegetables to combat the ageing population’s health strain and save taxpayers millions.
Spreading Awareness for Hearing Health
One of television’s most famous faces, Lynne McGranger, has challenged the stigma and ageism associated with hearing loss, and has urged seniors to be proactive with their hearing health.
Encouraging Future for Workforce
Amid a shortage for skilled workers, TAFE NSW has encouraged people to consider a career change and join the Aged Care workforce.
30 Skipping Dental Appointments
Over half of Australians over 65 delayed seeking dental treatment in the past 12 months, highlighting the need for the urgent introduction of a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme.
32 Building a Bond
Rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck into an ANZAC project in the workshop has been the perfect way to forge a friendship for two Ryman residents, Tony and Roger.
34 Final step for Greenwich Gardens
Metlifecare’s Greenwich Gardens retirement village has celebrated an exciting milestone with the official completion of its final development stage.
Cost of Living Conditions Worsen for Seniors
UK | The cost of living crisis has continued for pensioners in the UK, with conditions worsening more than last year.
In a new report, Age UK warns groups of pensioners are ‘still’ struggling with the cost of living, with the situation worse than last year. Older disabled people, older renters and those living on low and modest incomes are most affected.
One in three (34 percent), equivalent to 4.1 million pensioners, said they felt less financially secure heading into 2025 compared to when 2024 began, according to new research by Age UK.
In a new report out today, Back to cutbacks: How older people are managing the cost of living in a time of rising energy prices, Age UK warns the situation is worse than last year for all pensioners, particularly for some subgroups including older people with a disability, older renters and those on low-to-modest incomes. Other struggling groups include older women, people living alone and older carers. Read more online
Calls for More Palliative Attention
AUSTRALIA | Palliative Care Australia has questioned why palliative and aged care haven't had substantial attention during the current election campaign.
Amid the Federal Election campaign, Palliative Care Australia has called for details on how the next steps in aged care reform will ensure a dignified death for the 400 Australians who die each day of predictable causes.
“We have heard very little from those standing for election about improving access to palliative care,” said Dr Peter Allcroft, Chair, Palliative Care Australia (PCA).
“When the subject does come up, the Health Minister and Aged Care Minister have pointed to the new End of Life Pathway. This is a welcome reform, but access to the Pathway will be highly restricted at a time when we should be making palliative care more available to all those who need it.”
The new Support at Home End of Life Pathway is due to come into place on 1 July this year. The Pathway will mean more people over 65 with terminal illness can receive end of life care at home, where 90 percent of people want to be cared for.
Read more online
Aged Care Election Focus
AUSTRALIA | Ageing Australia has urged all political parties to make aged care a main priority ahead of the general election in May.
Ageing Australia has called on all parties to ensure aged care remains a national priority ahead of the Federal Election, addressing the workforce crisis, supporting transition to the New Act, and improving access for older Australians.
“The number one priority for aged care providers is improving the lives of older Australians. Unfortunately, we face chronic workforce shortages and challenges attracting and retaining workers, on top of financial sustainability pressures,” Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said.
Read more online
Reduced Level 2 and 3 Fees for 2025
For 2025, we’ve reduced fees on Level 2 and 3 Health and Wellbeing and Cleaning programmes by over 50%*
Learners completing Careerforce training programmes gain the skills needed to achieve nationally recognised health and wellbeing qualifications.
Our work-based programmes cover entry level certificates through to leadership and management diplomas. Talk to us about how we can help upskill your team.
*Applies to Careerforce’s employer-led programmes only careerforce.org.nz/aged-care 0800 277 486
Australian Governor General Appointed RSL LifeCare Patron
AUSTRALIA | Governor General of Australia, Sam Mostyn, has officially accepted the role as the incoming patron of RSL LifeCare.
RSL LifeCare said it was honoured to announce that Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor General of Australia, has officially accepted the role of Patron of RSL LifeCare.
This historic appointment was formally recognised during the 30th Field of Remembrance Dedication and ANZAC Service in Canberra this morning, a poignant commemoration honouring veterans, war widows, and their families.
In a moving tribute, veteran families and war widows laid personal symbols of remembrance, underscoring the profound legacy of service and sacrifice that continues to shape our nation. Read more online
Cost of Living Issues Still Front of Mind
AUSTRALIA | The cost of living crisis will remain the top issue for Australian seniors in the lead up to the 2025 general election.
Polling commissioned by COTA Australia has shown that older people ranked the cost of groceries and other day-to-day expenses; energy bills and other utility bills; and healthcare and medicines as the top three issues that will affect how they vote in the upcoming election.
Another cost of living pressure, the cost and availability of housing, ranked as the fourth most important issue for people over 50.
COTA Australia Chief Executive, Patricia Sparrow, said the polling should act as a wake up call to politicians ahead of the election.
Read more online
Coronation Street Spreads Dementia Awareness
UK | The Alzheimer's Association has partnered with soap opera Coronation Street to spread awareness of dementia in the UK. Alzheimer’s Society has teamed up with ITV and Coronation Street in order to shine a light on the growing impact of dementia across the UK. Created in partnership with Medialab and ITV Creative, the campaign features four bespoke linear spots which complement a storyline about beloved Coronation Street character Debbie Webster being diagnosed with dementia. The voiceover, by former cast member Julie Hesmondhalgh, has referenced the growing prevalence of dementia in the UK and the critical work Alzheimer’s Society is doing to support people like the character of Debbie. Read more online
EXPANDING LOCAL Knowledge of Dementia
New Zealand’s largest-ever study of dementia, the IDEA Project - Impact of Dementia mate wareware and Equity in Aotearoa, has released its first round of findings after one full year of research.
Professor Ngaire Kerse Executive Director, RVA
caravan of 50 interviewers knocked on more than 20,000 doors in Auckland and Christchurch over the past 12 months. Professor Ngaire Kerse, a Director of the University of Auckland’s Centre for CoCreated Ageing Research and the Joyce Cook Chair for Ageing Well, said approximately 600 Chinese, Indian and European people aged 65 and upward had been interviewed.
Kerse said that between a third and a half of the people in each group were unaware they had memory problems and were not known to services.
“There’s a lot of stigma about dementia, so families might not want their loved ones to be exposed to that,” Kerse added.
“Once people get past the stigma, getting a diagnosis can be extremely
helpful, because it opens access to social support, home help, personal care and support groups,” said Kerse, who also works as a GP.”
As dementia is a slow-progressing condition, an early diagnosis can provide the opportunity for people to prepare themselves for the future and elect a power of attorney before losing the capacity to do so.
Kerse said that once there is a diagnosis, there are more treatments available that can improve quality of live and demystify what is happening to a loved one. The project has been able to help several older people and caregivers who were experiencing distress in the face of dementia, by referring them to agencies providing additional support.
The next step for researchers is to launch on Auckland’s North Shore, where 30
interviewers will carry out four-minute interviews with people aged 65 and over. They aim to complete 700 more interviews overall, which will bring the total to 1300.
“We’re trying to establish the prevalence of dementia in Chinese, Indian and European populations, because this is not currently known in New Zealand – as strange as that may seem,” said Kerse.
“It’s a really important study, because we need to know the exact prevalence, so we can plan for future needs and provide better care and support.”
She added that roughly five percent of people over the age of 65 live with dementia, but it can jump to 30 percent in the 85 and older age bracket.
The IDEA project was launched in April 2024, with close to NZD 5 million in funding from the Health Research Council. Similar projects have explored the implications of dementia within Māori and Pacific communities across the country as well.
This research will support an equity analysis, which will be carried out to understand barriers to care, and highlight the best way that people with dementia can have optimal quality of life.
Later in the five-year project, the researchers will interview caregivers to find out more about the challenges they face and their tips and tricks for managing dementia.
“We want to co-create improved support for people who are caring for older people with dementia, because they can get quite stressed. This might be a new service or new ways of delivering support to meet the needs of specific ethnic groups,” said Kerse.
“At present, we’re hearing from Indian and Chinese communities that there are cultural barriers to accessing services for people with dementia and support for caregivers.”
The study will compare information uncovered during the interviews with existing data within the National Health Index. This will help assess how many new people with dementia are found and whether known cases have been picked up through the interviews.
CALLS FOR BROADER Medicine Consideration
Campaigners for better dementia and Alzheimer’s care have passionately rallied for better medication for those battling cognitive diseases.
recent decision by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Australia rejected the use of Lecanemab for dementia and Alzheimer’s care. This ruling has forced industry leaders to speak up on the issue, with calls for further research.
Director of the Australian Dementia Network, Professor Christopher Rowe, MD FRACP, said that patients with a recent diagnosis of early Alzheimer’s disease should have the opportunity to access this treatment once they and their family and carers have been fully informed of the benefits and risks.
“I had hoped it would be a new world for persons with early
Alzheimer’s disease. That when I gave my patients the devastating news that they have Alzheimer’s disease, I could offer them a new treatment that for the first time is proven to slow the disease,” said Rowe.
“This drug buys valuable time, slowing the rate of progression towards severe dementia by one third. The risk of serious damage from the drug is about one in 100 when given carefully and to the right patients. I am sure that many patients would gladly accept this risk.”
The Australian Dementia Network said this decision has denied Australian seniors access to a therapy shown to slow decline by one-third in Alzheimer’s Disease, the most common cause of dementia in Australia. The therapy has been approved in 11 countries, including the United States, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Israel, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and Great
CHANGING THE FACE of Aged Care
HON. TRACY MARTIN Chief Executive Aged Care Association
Before you read on, pause for a moment and ask yourself: what do you see when you imagine yourself at 85? Where do you live? Are you well, mobile, clear eyed, and sharp minded?
f you expect health and happiness, I wish it for you - I have a similar vision for myself and my loved ones. However, over the years as Minister for Seniors and now as Chief Executive of the Aged Care Association, I have learnt the importance of having a personal plan B. We all want to live in our own home as long as possible, so my husband and I have begun to futureproof our home. We’ve added a ramp at the back, levelled floors to remove step hazards, installed railings on all stairs, and planned a walk-in shower that can accommodate two people in case we ever need in-home personal care.
But we can do this because we own our homes, unlike the predicted 660,000 over 65-year-olds (more than half) who will be renting by 2050, and that’s only 25 years away.
Even those who own their homes can’t avoid another reality: no one chooses residential care. It isn’t a lifestyle choice like moving into a retirement village for security, companionship, and activities. Entering residential care is a circumstance of need that 28 percent of us in our 80s will face.
In the 1970s, I regularly visited my great-grandparents in a rest home. They were independently mobile in their late 60s or early 70s, even though my greatgrandfather was in the early stages of dementia. They had a twin bedroom, central bathroom, shared lounge, and a communal dining room. Is this the norm you picture for aged residential care?
Because today, the average age of entry into residential care, whether rest home, hospital-level, or dementia care, is 85, with an average stay of just 18 months and
increasing levels of acuity and comorbidities.
The reality is, the traditional “rest home” image is no longer relevant. Yet it appears that the public, policymakers, and even the health sector still hold onto outdated perceptions of aged residential care.
Not only is the perception of “rest home level care” outdated, but the term “hospital level care” is confusing. Yes, this level of care is of a high clinical standard involving 24/7 care by registered nurses and highly skilled health care assistants. However, New Zealanders have been raised to understand that “hospital” means free, full of doctors, and you get fixed. None of those things are true for aged residential care – we cannot turn back the clock.
That’s why we believe it’s time to embrace a new care category classification that recognises the broad spectrum of needs of the modern resident: Residential Care.
A redefined Residential Care model would cover a range of care packages that better reflect care needs, from minimal to intensive support, ensuring that every resident receives the care they need based on robust, evidence-based criteria rather than arbitrary and limited classifications. (Dementia, psychogeriatric, and palliative care would remain distinct, as these require specialised approaches.)
Just as each of us should plan for our future, our government must embrace proactive policy changes, evidence-based funding models, and appropriate residential care options.
With the 2026 General Election less than 80 weeks away, we need to get this topic on the agenda. The future of aged care in New Zealand depends on shifting the conversation. We need to challenge outdated perceptions, advocate for evidence-based funding, and ensure that every New Zealander understands what lies ahead. Talk about it at dinner parties, over coffee with friends, while networking with colleagues. Ask the people around you if they are aware of the state of aged care and whether they are planning for their future, considering the possibility of needing aged residential care.
Hopefully, you’ll be among the 72 percent who can stay home for life - but what if you’re not?
Connecting with
From robots to smart toilets and metallic exoskeletons, Artificial Intelligence and technology have the potential to revolutionise aged care in Australia, because it’s already happening around the world, according to a leading tech expert.
TOM SYMONDSON CEO, Ageing Australia
hat was the message from scientific futurist Dr Catherine Ball, who highlighted the opportunities AI presents in improving care, efficiency and safety for both residents and staff in aged care.
“As they [new technologies] come into the healthcare industry, you don’t want to be on the back foot of this,” Dr Ball said.
Speaking at Ageing Australia’s recent ITAC conference in Melbourne, Dr Ball pointed to her current work with AI and robotics in the mining sector, where robots are being deployed in deep-ground operations to eliminate the risk of human fatalities.
She suggested that aged care could also benefit from AI-driven innovations in the near future to reduce risks and improve working conditions. Using technologies in
this way could fast become the norm.
“Because the Workplace Health and Safety Act states that if there’s a known and available technology and you didn’t use it, you’re liable,” said Dr Ball, who is also a robotics expert.
One area of promise is the use of AIpowered exoskeletons to help both carers and older people with physically demanding tasks, reducing injury and fatigue.
The wearable external robotic device is taking off in countries like Japan and South Korea. They too are facing rapidly ageing populations and are investing significantly in AI and technology to support older people.
Japan has been at the forefront, said Dr Ball, adding that Australia should look to countries in the Asia-Pacific region for inspiration rather than relying on “tech-bros” in Silicon Valley.
“Communities in the Asia-Pacific have so much to teach us,” she said.
While aged care remains an incredibly complex sector that is heavily regulated, Dr Ball said that existing frameworks in Australia are not a barrier to adopting new technologies and “regulation and legislation don’t stymy innovation.”
Instead, the key challenge is understanding where AI can add the most value. “We don’t know what the problems are in your sector that AI can help with,” Dr Ball said.
Also speaking at ITAC, Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said the sector risked being left behind if innovation was ignored.
“AI won’t take your job, but someone who uses it will take your customers,” Symondson said, recalling a quote from a recent event.
“Innovation is everywhere. Often the biggest barriers are the ones we impose on ourselves,” he said.
He described AI as a powerful tool to support a complex sector run by people who care deeply about the lives of older Australians.
Symondson pointed to Cooma, a regional town in New South Wales, where councilrun aged care services are likely to face severe staffing shortages due to their remote location.
“Imagine how much a place like Cooma would benefit from something like AI?” he said.
He pointed to the recent World Ageing Festival in Singapore and the memorandum of understanding signed between Ageing Australia and Ageing Asia as key steps toward fostering greater collaboration and innovation in the sector.
“You can learn things not just from the person down the road, or the person in Perth, or in Cairns, but from the person in Ho Chi Minh, or in Helsinki, or in Boston.”
homes and their staff access to additional clinical expertise, I have no doubt we can support the Australian Government to improve the quality of care for older Australians,” he said.
Amplar Health will recruit additional registered nurses to ensure a robust and sustainable service model.
“Our virtual nursing team will act as an extension to on-ground care teams. They will participate in routine care, consult with families and provide specialist support in areas such as wound care, dementia and more,” Read added.
Federal Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells stated the Albanese Government had long supported further growth within the Aged Care Sector, especially following the recent industry reforms, the largest in a generation.
“The Albanese Government is committed to building and strengthening a valued, supported and skilled aged care
workforce to meet the needs of older people. This investment demonstrates how we are pursuing innovation in aged care for the benefit of older people and to support the workforce in thin markets,” said Wells.
La Trobe University has been appointed to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the trial project. This evaluation will assess the impact of virtual care in terms of clinical outcomes, workforce capacity, and the longterm sustainability of aged care services.
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A Healthier FUTURE
New Zealanders have been urged to eat more fruit and vegetables to combat the ageing population’s health strain and save taxpayers millions.
new international study has issued a stark warning for New Zealanders that health and wellbeing are in our hands, and increasing intake of fruit and vegetables is a key step to reducing the pressure on the healthcare system.
The new study of 45,000 people aged over 50 from 26 different European countries has confirmed a direct link exists between the amount of fresh produce regularly consumed and the chances of being admitted to hospital. Fewer and shorter hospital stays also reduce governments’ healthcare expenditure, possibly by billions.
The study, led by Brunel University of London, investigated the association between fruit and vegetable consumption and hospitalisation rates in older people as well as their use of primary care health services.
Participants were asked to indicate how often they consume fruit or vegetables, selecting from daily, three to six times a week, twice a week, once a week, or less than once a week. The study found that people who regularly consumed fresh produce reduced their hospitalisation risk, recording fewer hospitalisations and shorter hospital stays.
The research also revealed that people who eat more fruit and vegetables not only tend to avoid the hospital more often, but also seek help earlier from GPs, and may also engage in other healthy behaviours like regular exercise, often leading to better health outcomes.
“This study serves as a wake-up call for all New Zealanders,” said Dr Carolyn Lister, Principal Scientist and Science Team Leader at Food & Health Information and Trustee for 5+ A Day Charitable Trust.
“We need to prioritise our health now to prevent larger challenges down the road, especially as the Baby Boomer generation continues to age and obesity rates climb among younger New Zealanders.”
According to the most recent Stats NZ projections, the population has continued to age quickly. By 2028, approximately one Continued on page 24.
Continued from page 23.
million people will be over the age of 65, but this could double to 2.2 million in the next 50 years, making up 30 percent of the population. With the health system already stretched to its limits, the need for preventative measures, like eating more fruit and vegetables, has never been more critical.
The study’s researchers also pointed to a 2019 American study that found increasing fruit and vegetable consumption would prevent approximately 1.93 million cardiovascular disease events, and save USD 39.7 billion (NZD 69.2 billion) in healthcare costs. The benefits of a diet rich in fruit and
SPREADING AWARENESS for Hearing Health
One of television’s most famous faces, Lynne McGranger, has challenged the stigma and ageism associated with hearing loss, and has urged seniors to be proactive with their hearing health.
ecently released research from Hearing Australia found that over half of the country’s population were unaware that hearing loss can occur with ageing, and that many don’t seek help when they should. Two of the most frequent reasons were identified as self-inflicted ageism and the cost of hearing aids.
Only 16 percent of survey respondents thought that people seek help at the right time, and yet it is widely known that acting early on hearing loss can help enormously. In fact, according to the same research, 86 percent of respondents recognised that hearing aids would have a significant positive impact on their lives if
they had hearing problems.
The theme of this year’s World Hearing Day, commemorated in early March, was ‘Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all’. Only one in four Australians over 25 have had a hearing check at a hearing clinic in the last year, compared to three in four having a blood test and dental check-up.
Hearing Australia said that hearing well is critical to ageing well, maintaining relationships with loved ones, and being active in the community, which is why the organisation has called on the public to place their hearing health at the top of the priority list.
Once again, Hearing Australia has partnered with “Home & Away” star, Lynne
McGranger to highlight the importance of looking after hearing health and show how easy it is to get tested and find solutions.
“I’ll admit that I was somewhat in denial of my own hearing health until my daughter pointed out that I had the TV sound up louder than normal and struggled to hear people in noisy spaces. My mother had significant hearing loss later in life, so I know first-hand the devastating effects it can have on the person,” said Lynne McGranger.
In the lead-up to World Hearing Day, Hearing Australia offered free 15-minute consultations to spread awareness of hearing health.
Our research showed over half of Australians viewed sudden hearing loss as being the biggest catalyst to act, followed closely by not being able to hear all sounds clearly (50 percent) and family members telling them they have a problem with hearing (43 percent).
Kim Terrell, Hearing Australia’s Managing Director, can back this up from his own experience.
“Hearing loss can be devastating and it’s not something you just ‘have to live with’ as you get older. I know from my own personal experience that getting help and using hearing aids makes life much easier at home, in the workplace and in social settings,” said Terrell.
“Having to ask people to repeat themselves, your family complaining the TV volume is too loud or ringing in your ears (tinnitus), are some of the warning signs of hearing loss. They indicate it’s time to get a quick check of your hearing. And there are many simple and affordable options so if you have any signs of hearing impairment, I urge you to act.”
Encouraging Future FOR WORKFORCE
Amid a shortage for skilled workers, TAFE NSW has encouraged people to consider a career change and join the Aged Care workforce.
KYLIE HEWITT
TAFE NSW Graduate
s the demand for skilled healthcare workers continues to rise, it’s important to recognise the vital role aged care workers play in supporting the ageing population. This issue is majorly prominent throughout the New Zealand and Australian sectors, especially as the retired generation in both markets is projected to grow even further in the coming years.
In response to the noticeable gap for skilled workers, TAFE NSW has delivered a pipeline of highly skilled professionals through its diverse range of healthcare qualifications, including those offered at TAFE NSW Wagga Wagga.
One such graduate is 53-year-old Kylie Hewitt, who has answered the call for more aged care workers.
After 27 years as a business owner and building designer, and facing the long hours and challenges of life as a sole trader in regional New South Wales, Hewitt realised it was time to prioritise her physical and mental wellbeing. Seeking greater job
SKIPPING DENTAL Appointments
Over half of Australians over 65 delayed seeking dental treatment in the past 12 months, highlighting the need for the urgent introduction of a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme.
he Australian Dental Association (ADA) findings from its annual study of 25,000 people found that affordability was the main reason older Australians put off getting dental treatment, with two in three (64 percent) of over 65s delaying dental trips in the last year because they couldn’t afford it.
COTA Australia, a leading advocacy organisation for older people, Chief Executive Officer Patricia Sparrow said the new statistics released by the ADA highlight why older Australians are urging political parties to announce the introduction of a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme in the lead up to the election.
“The number of older Australians skipping vital treatments because they can’t afford it is ridiculously high. Good oral health is important for people of every age, and we
know people across the board are struggling with the cost, but as we get older the stakes get higher,” said Sparrow.
“Evidence shows that poor health increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease and chronic malnutrition in older people, as well as embarrassment and social isolation. Older Australians are putting their health at real risk because they’re nervous they can’t afford to pay for the treatment they need.”
COTA Australia has long advocated for the introduction of a Senior Dental Benefits Scheme to ensure that everyone can get access to the care they need.
“Every Australian, no matter what their age, should be looking at these statistics and asking their politicians why we don’t have a plan to introduce a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme yet,” Sparrow added.
“Introducing a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme is important for us all. Making sure
older Australians get access to the quality, affordable care they need will keep us healthier for longer, decreasing the burden on our public healthcare system and freeing it up for those who need it most,” said Sparrow.
“Including the Seniors Dental Benefits Scheme, as we have done for children, is the kind of prevention-focused policy we need to see from our political parties.”
ADA President Dr. Chris Sanzaro has been active in the media throughout February, highlighting the importance of supporting for one of Australia’s most vulnerable cohorts at this election.
“By narrowing our focus to the critical issue of improved health outcomes for our seniors, we increase the likelihood of securing immediate action from policymakers while continuing to advocate for broader reforms in the future,” he said.
“The ADA has a mission to improve the oral and general health of the public, and I urge our members to get behind this campaign.”
The Parliamentary Budget Office estimates the annual cost of the SDBS at AUD 1.143 billion for 2.8 million eligible seniors in 2025 to 26, increasing to AUD 1.263 billion in 2026 to 2027. In contrast, providing dental services to all Australians would cost between AUD 5.6 billion and AUD 12 billion a year, making the SDBS a far more financially viable option.
Beyond the SDBS, the ADA is advocating for the integration of oral health assessments into Medicare Benefits Schedule GP health checks for over 75s.
Consumer organisations have reported to the 2024 Senate Inquiry into the Provision of and Access to Dental Care that the lack of affordable dental treatment is a significant source of distress among the elderly, particularly pensioners and part-pensioners who can’t afford private health insurance.
Dr. Sanzaro underscored the broader implications of oral health.
“Unlike Medicare, which covers GP and hospital-related services, the mouth is seen by the government as separate from the rest of the body. A complete overhaul of the way dentistry for older Australians is funded is long overdue,” he said.
The federal election presents an opportunity for policymakers to prioritise seniors’ oral health and implement solutions that ensure equitable healthcare for Australia’s ageing population.
Building A BOND
Rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck into an ANZAC project in the workshop has been the perfect way to forge a friendship for two Ryman residents, Tony and Roger.
Day, and provided them a few samples to use as inspiration for their own village.
With Tracey supplying the materials they needed, Roger and Tony quickly cut out the shapes in the workshop, then sanded and painted them.
“We’ve made eight soldiers and 20 poppies plus the smaller poppies that go on the soldiers’ chests, which we will place around the gardens and outside the resident lounge here,” Roger said.
“And as the village grows, more will be added, giving us ongoing work when required.”
f it wasn’t for the village workshop, we wouldn’t have known each other,” said Roger, who moved into the village in October last year.
“It’s been great getting to know Tony. We’ve got quite a bit in common.”
Inspiration for the project came from the village’s Activity and Lifestyle Coordinator, Tracey, who told them about a similar idea that had come from another Ryman village.
Residents there had crafted silhouettes of soldiers and poppies out of plywood to decorate the village grounds for ANZAC
The standalone workshop has not only provided Roger and Tony with a fun place to hang out, it’s also been a refuge for their valued tools.
While many of his tools had become surplus to requirements for Roger and Tony, there were a few which were too special to give away.
“I made my own bench vice back in 1968, and I didn’t want to part with it. It was sentimental to me because I’d made it,” Roger said.
Both men acknowledge that the downsizing process can be tough for some, but Roger said he faced the situation in a pragmatic way.
“As soon as I heard about the residents’
FINAL STEP FOR Greenwich Gardens
Metlifecare’s Greenwich Gardens retirement village has celebrated an exciting milestone with the official completion of its final development stage.
he village, located on Auckland’s North Shore, has become an ideal location for retirees, and is in close proximity to a range of local shopping centres, accessible by motorway, and surrounded by an impressive natural backdrop.
Officially opened back in September 2016, Greenwich Gardens has become a beacon in the community. With the completion of its final stage, the village now has 430 apartments and condominiums.
Greenwich Gardens was one of many Metlifecare villages to be part of its wide investments to the area. Back in 2016, the company committed to investing primarily in high-value, high-growth regions, specifically throughout the upper North Island.
When construction began, the population for the Upper Harbour area of Auckland was expected to grow by approximately 29 percent over the next 10 years. Within that time frame, the area’s retired population was projected to grow by 73 percent. The opening of the Greenwich Gardens village has also supported the demand for homes in the region, one of Auckland’s most sought-after.
To celebrate this achievement, around 300 residents and staff recently gathered for an afternoon tea in the sun, complete with ribbon-cutting festivities that ushered in this exciting new chapter.
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PHOTO CREDITS: Metlifecare’s Greenwich Gardens retirement village
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The newly completed phase brings an additional 51 brand-new apartments across two buildings, offering a range of one, two, and three-bedroom units designed for comfort and style. But the apartments are just the beginning.
The development also introduces The Pavilion, a modern, and light-filled communal lounge and kitchen perfectly designed for social gatherings, that opens onto a brand-new croquet lawn. A new art room invites creativity, and expansive, beautifully landscaped gardens have been added, creating spacious outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy. The village also has the amenities to provide hospital-level care for up to 48 residents.
Now completed, Greenwich Gardens has become one of New Zealand’s largest retirement villages.
New residents and recent move-ins, Mark and Christine Sinclair, who bought their apartment off the plan, shared their excitement.
“We’re rapt! It’s even better than we expected. The facilities are great, and everyone is so friendly. We looked at a number of other villages around Auckland, but as soon as we walked in here, we immediately liked it and could really visualise living here,” said Mark Sinclair.
The village has long been known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere; in fact, its residents claim it’s ‘the friendliest village in Auckland’.
Fellow residents Ken and Elaine Strong agreed with this sentiment.
“I went for a five-minute coffee in the café the other day and was there for three hours,” Ken Strong laughed.
