"Developing policy to reflect the positive ageing needs of baby boomers in New Zealand - how well might the 'new old' age?"

Abstract

This research explores the potential impact of the New Zealand Positive Ageing Strategy on baby boomers capacity for positive ageing. Issues raised that may be relevant to policy makers are identified. The concepts of active, productive, successful and positive ageing are examined following a review of the literature, and prevailing discourses on ageing are identified. This research incorporates constructionist and critical theory perspectives to consider how society and culture shape our understanding and experience of ageing. A discourse analysis of the Strategy is undertaken to identify underlying assumptions, beliefs and values, and to explore the influence of prevailing ideology on the Strategy. A cohort perspective is then used to explore the implications of New Zealand's positive ageing strategy and to direct attention to the potential course of ageing in the future. Secondary data analysis of official publications has been undertaken to provide a description of the baby boomer cohort. The research sheds light on similarities and differences between current and future generations of older people in New Zealand and identifies variation within the boomer cohort. The research argues that prevailing models of social policy and beliefs about the role of the state and the responsibilities of its citizens have influenced and shaped the Positive Ageing Strategy. The rhetoric of positive ageing supported within the Strategy requires ongoing participation in productive activity, with a particular emphasis on extending the period of time involved in the workforce. It encourages individuals to accept responsibility for maintenance of health and economic activity, so that in older age individuals may remain independent and contribute more years to society, thereby reducing demand on health and social services. This research argues that the model of positive ageing adopted in the Strategy is inadequate and may result in increased social exclusion and competition between those who are ageing positively and those who are not. The emphasis on independence and ongoing activity in the Strategy encourages resistance to the process of ageing and diverts attention from the oldest members of society and the last stage of life. As a result the Strategy may not assist boomers to prepare for and adapt to older age. Boomers face an uncertain future re their role, purpose and identity in older age and the level of support that may be available to them. Changes to the Positive Ageing Strategy are suggested and additional research and flexible policy development is recommended.