Working Together to Support Older Adults
Across the Waitākere Ranges, a diverse range of organisations and community groups are supporting older adults in different ways. From social and cultural activities to health, learning, and practical support, each brings valuable knowledge and connections to the community.
But knowing who is doing what, where services overlap, and where there may be opportunities for collaboration is not always straightforward. For providers, building stronger relationships with one another is an important part of developing a more coordinated and responsive support system for the people they serve.
As part of an initiative supported by the Waitākere Ranges Local Board, Community Waitākere is bringing providers together through the Seniors Providers Network. Funded to strengthen connections among organisations working with older adults, the initiative creates opportunities for providers to share knowledge, learn from one another, and explore how they can work together more effectively.
The initiative began with a high tea in March, bringing older adults and service providers together in one space to share experiences, interests, and ideas. Alongside identifying the activities and opportunities that older adults would value, the gathering highlighted the importance of stronger connections among the organisations supporting them.
“Providers are eager to collaborate, but lack structured opportunities to connect, share knowledge, and align services,” said Daena Walker, the project lead for this kaupapa.
The first dedicated Seniors Providers Network hui followed in late June, bringing together providers from across the Waitākere Ranges Local Board area, with Penny Hulse as the guest speaker. The second official hui, co-hosted with Communicare General Manager Mike Matthews, explored some of the wider challenges facing older adults and the providers working alongside them.
These gatherings have highlighted challenges including social isolation, the need for culturally responsive services, accessible communication, and the importance of designing support around the realities of older people’s lives. Emphasis has been placed on the value of creating a clearer picture of the services available across the area — an important part of improving equitable access and coordination.
At the heart of this work is supporting older adults to participate in community life on their own terms.
“Older adults want to be people with meaningful connections in their community. They don’t want to be dependent on others.”
With many organisations supporting a broad range of people, these opportunities to share knowledge and build relationships are giving providers a clearer understanding of what support is available and where collaboration may be possible. A more connected provider network is an important part of building a coordinated, inclusive, and responsive support system.
As the Seniors Providers Network continues to grow, further hui will provide opportunities for organisations to deepen relationships, share learning, and explore new ways of working together. By strengthening connections across the sector, the network is helping create the conditions for older adults to feel more connected, supported, and able to participate in community life.
Are you eager to join this network? Get in touch with Daena to be added to the invite list!