Seniors forgotten in SA budget

Older South Australians felt left out in the 2008-09 state budget, according to National Seniors SA policy chair Roger Baker.

“Not a single new initiative was aimed at older people,” he said. “National Seniors welcomes the increased funding for health and disability initiatives, and is pleased that an extra 4,000 people will receive Home and Community Care (HACC) services this next financial year.

“However one of NSA’s key recommendations which was not adopted was the reduction in stamp duty for seniors downsizing their houses. ‘

Mr Baker said National Seniors recognised the benefits of investment in public transport infrastructure and hospitals.

“It’s just a shame other significant issues went unaddressed, such as oral health.”

He said seniors were usually on fixed incomes and could not afford private dental care. “The average adult waiting times for specialist dental care are expected to be 10 months longer on average in 2008-09 than they were in 2006-07. This budget has failed to address the issue of oral health.”