A new report, the Older Persons Poverty Monitor, released on Wednesday, reveals that tens of thousands of New Zealanders aged 65 and over are experiencing material hardship, unable to afford basic necessities such as healthy food and clothing.
The report, produced by a coalition of aged-care and social services organizations, highlights that a significant number of older people are struggling to meet their daily needs, despite the country's overall economic conditions. The findings have been described as "not acceptable" by advocates for the elderly.
According to the report, the issue is particularly acute among those who rent, with many spending a large portion of their income on housing, leaving little for other essentials. The report calls for policy changes to address income inadequacy and the rising cost of living.
While the exact figures were not specified in the initial summary, the report emphasizes the scale of the problem, with "tens of thousands" affected. It urges the government to consider adjustments to superannuation and other support mechanisms to ensure older New Zealanders can live with dignity.
