HELEN WHITE: LABOUR LIST MP BASED IN AUCKLAND CENTRAL

This month’s issue is all about wellbeing. In this community I am particularly concerned about the wellbeing of our older residents.

I moved to Freemans Bay when I was three years old. My parents loved moving here from Kawerau, which is a very small town. They loved living in the city because it was so stimulating. I went to school across the road in bare feet and my mother was the chair of the school board. She introduced healthy lunches, much to my shame at the time. I was quite fond of custard pies and white bread, but from that point on everyone had to put up with brown bread and less sugar.

My parents are now 83 and 91 and still live in Freemans Bay, which I think is great for their mental health because this is their community and it has so many connections. This makes me very conscious of the realities of aging in Auckland Central. Undoubtedly there are great things about living in the centre of the city but I appreciate it hasn’t been the easiest time to be old in the community. Especially during the pandemic, which has brought isolation and strained our health services.

My father has a hearing difficulty and despite being fit he has found it hard to navigate the supports he and my mother need to continue to live independently. The Labour Party has produced a helpful booklet entitled ’Guide to Services in the Community’ for older people.

It traverses everything from community services card applications, disability allowances, accommodation supplements, modification grants, superannuation and mental health support. I have copies available for anyone who would like one, feel free to enquire via my email helen.white@parliament.govt.nz

This booklet includes a few things which I think are particularly important to remember. For one, if you are struggling to pay your rates, know you are not alone. There is a rates rebate scheme available should you need help. The funding for this comes from government to offset the cost of rates, if you are on a low income. Those earning up to $28,080 are eligible to claim the full amount. Otherwise, if you earn more than this you may be eligible for a partial rebate. If you have any questions or want to check your eligibility ring the Department of Internal Affairs on 0800 25 78 87.

If you are struggling day-to-day with tasks such as self-care and housework, community care for older people is available. It starts with a needs assessment to determine the amount and type of support you need. You can enquire through your GP or www.nznasca.co.nz

The Winter Energy Payment is paid to all superannuitants. Keeping people warm and healthy during winter has been a priority for this government, and this is what this payment sets out to achieve. The payment will be paid automatically from 1 May until 1 October. Lots of us grew up thinking cold houses were something we just had to put up with, but it’s really a matter of staying healthy.

When you turn 65 you can get a shingles vaccine, so make sure you diarise that, if you want one. People over 65 can be vaccinated free against influenza, tetanus, whooping cough, and diphtheria, and of course Covid. You will also be able to get anti-virals if you get sick with Covid. The best place to start is to go to your GP or you can call the Covid Healthline on 0800 358 5453. (HELEN WHITE)  PN

[CG1]Shingles vaccine is only available at 65 (i.e. before you turn 66) www.labour.org.nz/helenwhite

This article is funded by Parliamentary Services.