Otago Seniors Face Declining Wellbeing, Survey Reveals Gaps

A recent survey highlights significant declines in the quality of life for older residents in Otago, New Zealand. The New Zealand Seniors Quality of Life Report 2025, conducted by research firm MYMAVINS in early April, indicates that seniors in this region report lower life satisfaction compared to the national average. While overall life satisfaction for New Zealanders aged 50 and over is just under seven out of ten, Otago residents rated their satisfaction closer to six.

The survey reveals that many Otago seniors perceive a deterioration in their quality of life over the past two years. Approximately one in five respondents in Otago reported a significant decline, which is double the national average of about one in ten. Furthermore, about ten percent of seniors in the region anticipate further declines in the next two years, compared to only three percent of seniors nationwide.

Key Challenges Facing Otago Seniors

Financial strain emerges as the most pressing concern among Otago seniors. About two-thirds of respondents identified rising living costs as a major issue, while nearly three in five cited health and mobility challenges. Just over half expressed concerns about financial security. On a national scale, living costs were still the top concern for around three-quarters of seniors, but financial security and health issues rank lower compared to the regional statistics.

Access to healthcare is another critical issue for seniors in Otago. The survey found that nearly one-third of seniors in the region delayed seeking medical care in the past year, starkly contrasting with only 12% of seniors across the country who reported the same. Tai Rotem, a consulting partner at MYMAVINS, noted that this trend reflects the severe financial pressures that many Otago seniors are facing. “Someone needs to be under quite severe financial pressure and stress to delay seeking medical care,” Rotem stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

Community Support and Isolation

The financial pressures faced by seniors often lead to difficult choices. Mike Williams, chief executive of Age Concern Otago, highlighted that many individuals over 65 live on fixed incomes, such as the New Zealand Superannuation. This situation forces them to make tough decisions about essential expenses, including healthcare and food. Tristan Kavanagh, from Age Concern Otago’s social connections team, added that some seniors may forgo necessary medical treatment to manage their food budgets.

Financial strain not only impacts healthcare access but can also lead to increased isolation among seniors. Age Concern Otago works to alleviate this issue through its social connection services, which match volunteers with older individuals for regular visits. Kavanagh explained, “Some people go on outings together, but most are just happy for the volunteers to pop around and have a cup of coffee with them and a chat.”

The demand for community social work is increasing, as more seniors face higher and more complex needs. Williams noted that referrals from community and health organizations are rising, indicating a growing need for support services tailored to seniors dealing with issues such as cognitive decline and mental health challenges.

The findings from the New Zealand Seniors Quality of Life Report 2025 shed light on the pressing challenges faced by seniors in Otago. As rising living costs and health issues continue to impact their quality of life, community organizations play a crucial role in providing support and addressing the growing needs of this vulnerable population.