Decade Of Healthy Ageing

Introduction

Age Concern Auckland was honoured to attend the national launch of the Five Pledges for the Decade of Healthy Ageing at Parliament on 5 November 2025. This event forms part of the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030), a global movement dedicated to improving the lives, rights, and wellbeing of older people.

Our CEO, Kevin Lamb, joined government representatives, sector leaders, researchers, and community organisations to support a shared commitment to building an Aotearoa where everyone can age well.

About the Parliamentary Event

The launch was hosted by the Aotearoa New Zealand National Forum for the Decade of Healthy Ageing in collaboration with the Office for Seniors. Speakers included:

• Denise Cosgrove – CEO of The Selwyn Foundation and Chair of the National Forum
  
• Hon Casey Costello – Minister for Seniors
  
• Senior academic and sector representatives involved in healthy ageing research and policy
  
• Community partners from across the ageing, health, and housing sectors
  

The event introduced the Five Pledges that will guide national advocacy and investment for the rest of the Decade.

The Five Pledges for Longer, Better Lives

1. Improve the way we collect and use data on ageing
   Aotearoa needs high-quality data that accurately reflects the realities of older people. Better information supports smarter planning, fairer funding, and more responsive services.
2. Address housing insecurity for older people
   Housing is a critical determinant of wellbeing. The pledge calls for action on affordability, accessibility, long-term housing security, and support for older renters.
3. Support people to plan for healthy and independent later lives
   Personalised planning and early support can help more people remain active, connected, and independent for longer.
4. Invest in community-led wrap-around supports
   Community organisations play an essential role in social connection, prevention, and partnership. Sustained funding and strong local networks create healthier and more resilient communities.
5. Expand proactive health checks and health promotion
   Preventative health approaches help people age well and reduce pressure on the health system.

Why This Matters for Auckland

At Age Concern Auckland, we see every day how housing stress, rising living costs, social isolation, and barriers to health access affect older people. The Five Pledges closely mirror the challenges we respond to across Tāmaki Makaurau.

Our work aligns strongly with the aims of the Decade through:

• Elder abuse and neglect prevention
  
• Social connection and Ageing Well programmes
  
• Digital literacy and community education
  
• Navigation support and advocacy
  
• Culturally responsive engagement with diverse communities
  

By supporting these pledges, we are strengthening our commitment to an Auckland where older people can live with dignity, value, and purpose.

What’s Next

The Decade of Healthy Ageing continues until 2030. Age Concern Auckland will:

• Contribute to national kōrero and advocacy
• Share insights from our frontline work
• Collaborate with local and national partners
• Champion the voices of older Aucklanders

Together, we can create long-term, meaningful change.

Learn More

Visit the official NZ Decade of Healthy Ageing site for updates and resources:
https://nzdecade.org.nz

News
News