By Kevin Burrows
Over 26% of Kāpiti residents are over the age of sixty-five, and 27.5% are over the age of sixty.
These percentages are expected to grow significantly in the coming years, as Kāpiti is a popular retirement destination, contributing to a higher proportion of older residents.
The aging population will have a significant impact on businesses, especially in retail. In response, the New Zealand Office for Seniors has developed an Age-Friendly programme for businesses. This programme is free of charge and based on self-assessment, making it easy to implement and cost-effective.
The Kāpiti Coast District Council has also adopted an Age-Friendly approach to better support and recognise the needs, aspirations, and contributions of older residents. This approach can assist businesses in their efforts as well.
International research shows that products and services designed with older individuals in mind often benefit people of all ages. Customers appreciate having choices, and they are more likely to shop where they receive excellent service and find products that meet their needs. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend your business to others.
Any organisation that interacts with the public should aim to be Age-Friendly, including retail businesses, professional services, health and social services, government agencies, local governments, trade organisations, suppliers, and online services. The goal is to create a business environment that is accessible and to provide a customer service experience that is inclusive and respectful. Businesses
should offer products and services that meet the diverse needs of all customers and clients, regardless of their age, life stage, or ability.
The programme focuses on continuous self-improvement in four key areas: Environment, Accessibility, Communication, Inclusion, and Products and Services. It encourages making gradual changes over time to create an accessible environment, inclusive and respectful customer service experiences, and offerings that cater to the needs of all customers, irrespective of age, life stage, or ability.
You do not have to implement everything at once; becoming Age-Friendly is a journey. Develop an action plan that suits your business.
To identify practical actions, consider what you will stop doing, what you will start doing, and what you will continue doing. Your Action Plan should also describe what success will look like, helping you recognise and celebrate your achievements.
Once you have completed your self-assessment and created your Action Plan for the next 12 months, reach out to your local Age-Friendly Business Coordinator at the Office for Seniors and send them a copy of your plan. They will not be “approving” it but will keep track of the areas people are addressing and the innovations taking place. From time to time, they will also send you updated information about what
others are doing around the world.
The Age-Friendly Business Coordinator will send you an “Aspiring to be AGE FRIENDLY” logo to display and may also discuss publicity opportunities with you.
If you require more information about the Age-Friendly Business programme, visit the website: https://www.officeforseniors.govt.nz/our-work/age-friendly-communities/becoming-an-age-friendly-business
You can also contact the Kāpiti District Council or the Older Persons Advisory Group.
Kevin Burrows is the Chair of the Kāpiti Council Older Persons Advisory Group.
You can reach him at [email protected].
