The advancement of technology and medical knowledge, along with improvements in overall living conditions, has led to a significant increase in the population of older individuals and those living with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities. The age group experiencing the most rapid growth globally is those aged 80 and above. In New Zealand, the population of individuals aged 65 and older doubled from 1988 to 2016, surpassing 700,000. This figure is anticipated to double once more by 2046, raising concerns about a shortage of adequately trained Health Care Workers capable of delivering the necessary care. According to UN statistics, 15% of the global population lives with a disability that necessitates support.
Kalandra’s Health Care Support program aims to address this swiftly growing demand for qualified Health Care Assistants by educating caregivers who can recognize and comprehend their clients’ needs, thereby providing optimal care and support to improve their daily living experiences or health outcomes. There is an increasing number of vulnerable individuals residing in the community, receiving care from family members or community organizations. Kalandra has recognized that those who care for others in their homes or communities would greatly benefit from training at this level.
