Over the last few months, I’ve been travelling around the country and meeting with seniors. It’s been an eye-opening experience learning about the challenges people are facing.
It has been heartening to hear that our Green Budget resonated well with seniors, with free GP visits and free dental care especially well supported.
People have been pleased to see a holistic and evidence-based approach to primary health.
Concerns around retirement villages and ongoing delays with the Retirement Village Act review are an ongoing issue.
At the end of September, I sent a letter on behalf of the opposition parties to the Minister responsible for the retirement village review, requesting him to release an exposure draft Bill.
This would mean people could provide feedback before a Bill is introduced in Parliament. At the same time, the Green Party is still exploring options of a visionary approach to retirement villages which fairly serve our population.
I also learnt of seniors’ interest in free shingles (Shingrix) vaccinations to be extended beyond 65 years of age.
The current scheme which makes the vaccination available for the 12 months after your 65th birthday is too limiting. Shingles can be particularly dangerous for seniors, so I have been looking into this concern.
Over the next few months, I am committed to visiting as many places as I can. The seniors portfolio is something I am hugely passionate about.
If you would like me to come and visit, or even just to contact me with your thoughts and feedback, please email me at Lawrence.Xu-Nan@parliament.govt.nz.