As you get older, your health needs may change, and you might find yourself thinking more about how to access the care and support you need to stay well and independent. Alongside this, managing the cost of healthcare can become an important consideration.
There is a range of subsidies, funding options, and support services available in New Zealand to help you manage your health after the age of 65. Understanding what you’re entitled to, and how to access it, can make a real difference to both your wellbeing and peace of mind.
We’ve brought together some of the key supports and links to their websites here, so you can explore your options and find the help that’s right for you.
Looking after your health
Community Services card
If you already have a Community Services Card when you’re granted NZ Super, you can continue to use it until it expires. When it does expire, you’ll need to reapply. This is because NZ Super is counted as income, and your details will need to be updated.
If your application is approved, you’ll be sent a new combined card with “CSC” on the back. The expiry date will vary from one to three years, depending on your financial circumstances.
Health and disability support
If you have a health condition or disability, Work and Income may be able to help with some of the costs involved in managing your health and daily life.
This may include support for:
- Hearing aids
- Glasses
- Dental treatment
- Counselling
- Medical alarms or bracelets
- Housing or vehicle modifications
A good first step is to contact Work and Income to talk through what support you may be eligible for. You can visit their website for information or find the best way to get in touch by phone.
High use health card
You may be eligible for a High Use Health Card if you have visited a healthcare practitioner at the general practice you are enrolled in 12 or more times in one year. Talk to your doctor about this, as they need to apply on your behalf.
Prescription subsidy card
If you have regular health costs and your income is from NZ Super alone, Work and Income may be able to help reduce the cost of your prescriptions. through a Prescription Subsidy card.
Healthline
Healthline is a free over-the-phone health service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you or someone in your family is unwell, you can call Healthline and speak to experienced nurses and paramedics for health advice and information about what to do next.
Immunisation and vaccinations
As you get older, your immune system can weaken, which makes you more susceptible to illness. Some earlier vaccinations you received will have worn off and become less effective. Staying up to date with immunisations is an important way to protect your health.
From age 65, the New Zealand Immunisation Schedule recommends:
- A free combined vaccination for diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (DTaP)
- A free vaccination for shingles (only free in your 65th year)
- A flu vaccination, which is free every year from the age of 65
Talk to your medical practice or pharmacy about suitable vaccinations to help you prevent illness.
Support when caring for your partner
If the person you’re caring for would need hospital, rest home or residential care without you, Work and Income may be able to help.
Supported living payment
Supported Living Payment is a weekly payment from Work and Income to help you if you have, or are caring for someone with, a significant health condition, injury or disability.
Special disability allowance
Special Disability Allowance is a weekly payment from Work and Income for people who have a spouse or partner who is in residential care or has been in a public hospital for over 13 weeks. It’s paid to the spouse or partner who is not in care to help with the extra costs of having their spouse or partner in care.
