The Health Select Committee is holding an inquiry into the aged care sector to determine the current and future capacity to support people with neurological disorders such as dementia.
Health Select Committee Chair Sam Uffindell announced the inquiry on Friday, saying it's about ensuring appropriate asset thresholds for sustainable services.
The inquiry fulfils a Coalition Agreement between National and New Zealand First to undertake a Select Committee inquiry into aged care provision to include supporting people with early onset conditions and what asset thresholds are appropriate.
"New Zealand's population is aging and life expectancy is climbing. It's the right call for our committee to look into a range of issues related to the aged care sector," Uffindell said.
He added the inquiry will investigate the sector's ability to provide care and services to the current and expected number of seniors who are and will suffer from early-onset conditions.
"The scope of the inquiry will look at whether the funding model has been updated to reflect current best provisions for these conditions," said Uffindell. "The Ministry of Health is beginning Phase Two of the Aged Care Funding and Service Model Review which is aimed at improving service sustainability and ensuring equitable access and outcomes.
"However, the Select Committee inquiry will have a focus on the early onset provision and could provide valuable insights to support a funding model change."
Uffindell said the inquiry will start before July 1 and the Health Committee may expand its scope to consider other areas.
NZ First MP Jenny Marcroft, who's on the committee, welcomed the inquiry.
"We owe it to our seniors to explore a range of issues around aged care and how we can best support New Zealanders as they age," Marcrfot said.
"There are challenges in the current aged care provision for those with early onset dementia, and an increasing number who are under 65 also require support."
She said dementia can impact couples who would normally live together but must be separated due to individual care needs - which needs the Government's attention.
"We are pleased to see progress on this commitment from the National - NZ First Coalition Agreement."
