It can be daunting choosing a new place to live when you are feeling vulnerable, frail, or have complicating medical conditions – but know there are options, and the final decision should be yours. Here, you’ll find information about the different care options available in most residential care facilities in New Zealand (including rest homes, dementia and hospital level care), how care is paid for, and provide an insight into what you can expect from living in a care home.
Living in a care home
Residential care
How can I adjust to living in a care home?
When making the decision to go into a care home it is common to experience a lot of conflicting feelings. You and your family/whānau may have had quite differing views on the benefits of this and the decision may not have been easily reached. This is one of life’s major...
Residential care
I live in a rest home. Is this the end of my sex life?
The quick answer is, not necessarily. The reality is we are all sexual beings, and many people wish to continue an active sex life into their older age. It may be that you currently have a partner, and you are facing separation due to the need for residential care, perhaps...
Residential care
I’m in the rainbow community but feel uncomfortable in care
Julie Watson, who runs Silver Rainbow workshops (LGBTQIA+ education for those working in aged care) answers this question for us. If I was asked this question, I would want to see some things done immediately for this person. Their care home is their home and is the place where they...
Residential care
I’m worried about my privacy in a care home (rest home).
Many people when moving into a care home are concerned about their privacy. You have a right to expect your privacy around your personal needs, health, and finances to be protected and respected. When you choose your home be observant and watch the interactions between staff and residents. Respectful behaviour...
Residential care
What happens if my care home decides to close or downsize?
Closing or downsizing an aged residential care (ARC) facility can have serious implications for everyone involved. That's why facilities need to follow a set of guidelines to make the process as smooth and supportive as possible. Crucially, residents should continue to receive quality care as specified under the facility’s Age...