Overview

Established in 1996

The HOPE Foundation for Research on Ageing is a non-Government funded Charitable Trust established to prepare New Zealand for an ageing future.

What is our mission?

• Lead and resource the funding of people doing research on ageing
• Disseminate research-based information about the effects of ageing on individuals and society
• Develop the pool of researchers in New Zealand
• Influence decision-makers to improve the quality of life for ageing New Zealanders

Why the need for the Foundation?

The New Zealand population is undergoing a major demographic transformation and is facing an epidemic in ageing.

In 1966, 12% of the population was 64 and over. In 2040 it will be 24%. At the time of the 2001 Census, the population aged 65 years and over totalled nearly half a million. From 2010 onwards, the number of older people will increase as the baby boomer generation enters retirement. The proportion of older people aged 75 and over will be particularly significant over the next two decades and it is estimated that the proportion over age 85 will quadruple over the next 20 years. There will also be significant increase in the number of Maori and Pacific older people.

The social impact of a significant proportion of the population being "non-working" has major implications for our society in economic, demographic, town planning, infrastructural and health related areas.

How we are addressing the issues

Academic Research
Research is desperately needed into the social and health needs of older people, and the long term effects on the community of supporting an increasing proportion of older people. The Foundation supports Scholarships at the University of Auckland, the Victoria University of Wellington and the University of Otago. It funds Summer Students at the University of Auckland to undertake special projects related to ageing.

Where does the money come from?
In order to achieve the goals of the Foundation, a capital sum of more than $2 million is needed. This may seem like a big hurdle, but we believe that the generosity of people who catch the vision for what the Foundation is trying to achieve, will enable the target to be reached.

What can you do?
Support the Foundation by a gift sent to PO Box 87-343, Meadowbank Auckland 1742. Cheques should be made payable to the HOPE Foundation. Gifts of more than $5 are tax deductible.

Ensure that your memory is continued by planned giving to the Foundation in your Will. We can assist with the correct wording for a Codicil in your Will.

Join the Friends of the Foundation and receive our Newsletter and invitations to special events.

Read more about the Friends of the Foundation here>>

For further information write to PO Box 87-343, Meadowbank Auckland 1742 or E mail the Executive Officer, janbowman@xtra.co.nz.