An open letter from Age Concern New Zealand to dentists

Good oral health is an important part of general health and wellbeing in older age, and yet many older people aren't getting sufficient dental care. We think dentists can help improve this situation.

The reasons older New Zealanders are missing out vary, but we know that the cost of visiting the dentist keeps many away. To quote one older respondent from a recent Age Concern focus group: “Dental care is a luxury outside my budget. ”Most older people are trying to make ends meet on an income of little more than $300 per week.

The SuperGold Card programme has the potential to make dental care more affordable for people over 65. Yet currently, only seventeen dentists across the country are signed up. Age Concern New Zealand hopes more dentists will join the scheme.

SuperGold Card is automatically sent to all New Zealand residents who receive New Zealand Superannuation. Now that it includes free off-peak public transport, many people are using their cards frequently. The Ministry of Social Development administers the programme and has a dedicated website and a directory that lists the discounts available. Seniors are now shopping around for good discounts and supporting the businesses that support them.

I believe your practice would benefit from becoming a SuperGold Card Business Partner. Their website lists the following benefits:

• Membership in one of New Zealand's largest discount and card entitlement programmes, catering to a fast growing and influential market demographic

• Free inclusion on the SuperGold Card website, which provides additional information and the opportunity for you to offer ‘real-time’ offers, discounts and specials to cardholders

• Free point-of-sale materials promoting your business as a Business Partner

• Opportunities to combine your own marketing with SuperGold's nationwide marketing and communications campaigns

• Recognition that your business is supporting seniors and veterans.

Age Concern urges you to participate in SuperGold Card and help older people improve their oral health. Please contact Tim Bryers, Key Account Manager SuperGold Card, email Tim.Bryers001@msd.govt.nz or phone 0-4-917 8112 or visit: www.supergold.govt.nz.

Yours sincerely,