The National Diabetes Roadmap has been launched, with the goals of improving care, strengthening prevention and supporting better health outcomes.
One of the fastest-growing long-term health conditions in the country, diabetes affects around 348,000 people and places pressure on communities and the health system, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
The threshold for diagnosing type 2 diabetes will be lowered, which will reclassify around 34,500 Kiwis from prediabetes to diabetes. Earlier intervention looks to reduce long-term complications by getting people care sooner, especially high-risk patients, before complications develop.
Foot and retinal screening programmes will be expanded, community-based support networks will grow, and modern technology will be better harnessed for monitoring, telehealth, and remote patient management. An oversight group will be established to guide implementation.
“That growing impact is being felt most acutely through preventable complications, particularly within our Māori, Pacific, and South Asian communities. This roadmap is about changing that by acting earlier, supporting healthier living, and reducing the avoidable harm diabetes causes,” Brown says.
The coordinated approach comes after a Health New Zealand review last year, which highlighted the scale and financial burden of diabetes. The cost of diabetes-related care reached $2.1 billion last year, and if no changes are made, it is expected to double by 2040.
“This is about system-level change. Diabetes cannot be managed by individual effort alone – it requires coordinated action across the health system and our communities.”
Diabetes NZ chief executive, Heather Verry, welcomed the news. “We are thrilled to see the National Diabetes Roadmap come to fruition, recognising the need for a strategic, long-term approach to address the growing health needs of New Zealanders with diabetes.”
“Our mission is to ensure people with diabetes have equitable access to affordable, quality diabetes care and education, and this roadmap strongly aligns with the work we are already delivering in communities.”
Supporting older adults with diabetes
Supporting an older loved one with diabetes starts with understanding that their needs may look different to those of younger people.
As we age, other health conditions, changes in mobility, vision, memory and even mood can all affect how well we manage blood sugar day‑to‑day.
For many older adults, the goal is to keep diabetes “good enough” to feel well and enjoy life, rather than chasing perfect numbers. This means working with the GP or diabetes nurse to simplify treatment where possible, avoid low blood sugars, and regularly review medications as health needs change. Bringing a family member or friend along to appointments can help with remembering advice, asking questions and following through on the plan at home.
Practical support at home makes a big difference. Help with planning and preparing balanced meals, shopping, and setting up reminders for medicines or blood‑glucose checks can reduce stress and prevent complications.
Gentle activity such as walking, gardening or chair‑based exercises supports strength, balance and mood, and can be tailored to whatever is realistic for the person. If cooking or exercise are difficult, community services, diabetes education programmes, or meals‑on‑wheels may be available through local health providers.
Equally important is emotional and social support. Older adults with diabetes have a higher risk of loneliness and depression, which can make self‑care much harder. Regular phone calls, shared meals, or accompanying them to a diabetes group or class can build connection and confidence.
Above all, let your loved one stay in control where they can. Support that is respectful and not bossy helps them feel capable rather than criticised, and that’s the foundation of living well with diabetes in later life.
