Search Results for "freedom medical"

These decisions can be complex so, after you've thought through what some acceptable options are for you, we advise that you obtain professional financial and legal advice. If you stay at home, are all the support services you require available? If you intend to pass on some inheritance, some of...

The internet can tap into our fears about developing dementia mate wareware (mate wareware is the term Maori are familiar with) but there is better news out there these days. In some parts of the world there has even been a decline in the rate of the condition. While there’s...

From 7 November 2021, those over 18 who experience unbearable suffering from a terminal illness can legally ask for medical assistance to end their lives (under the End of Life Choice 2019 Act ). The legislation sets tight controls about who can access the option but the crucial term here...

Not everyone wants to go online. While you may understand the numerous benefits and be capable of handling the drawbacks, it appears that your enthusiasm for the digital world fails to inspire someone close to you to make the move. There can be several reasons why people don’t want to...

I’m worried about my neighbour. She’s seems quite private and looks very frail. Sometimes I don’t see any movement at her place for days on end. Should I go and check on her? We live in a society where many people have highly valued privacy and individual responsibility and freedom,...

‘My Health Passport’ is a booklet designed to help individuals manage their health information and improve communication between them and their healthcare providers. In New Zealand, ‘My Health Passport’ is a free service that is available to anyone who wants to use it. The primary purpose of ‘My Health Passport’...

The Kiwi Access Card (previously known as the 18+ card) is a Government recognised form of photographic ID that can be used as evidence of age and identity throughout New Zealand. If you don’t have a passport or a driver’s licence, it’s a good alternative if you need proof of...

We should all feel safe and secure in our homes, whether we own, rent, or live in a retirement village. Here, we share some valuable home safety tips for people of all ages as well as some useful tools for older people looking for extra security measures to assist when...

Ideally you wouldn't have to wait to get an an interRAI assessment. In some areas of New Zealand (especially if you’re considered non-urgent) the wait for an interRAI assessment can be long, however. During this time, you may find that your situation changes. If this is the case, then you...

You can go to a public hospital if you are seriously unwell, and it is an emergency. For all other times you need to be referred by a health professional, usually your doctor. If it’s an emergency phone 111 and ask for an ambulance. If you’re near the hospital and...

When the long, sunny days of summer roll in, it’s important to stay mindful of your health. While the season is filled with opportunities for enjoying the warm weather, it’s worth being aware that the heat can present certain risks, particularly for older adults. Read on to discover some practical...

While making your home a safer place, make sure you also stay as fit an active as you can. If you have good strength and balance it's much easier to regain your footing if you trip. Outside Ensure that path surfaces and gradients are safe, clear and moss free. Steps...

In March 2024, Carolyn Cooper, the Aged Care Commissioner, released a report titled “Amplifying the voices of older people across Aotearoa New Zealand”. It contains 20 recommendations to improve services and care for older people in Aotearoa. So, why is this report important and how does it affect every day...

The thing to remember about these services that they are usually required every day, and the type of care that’s needed, more complex. Naturally these factors increase the cost as can be seen in the table below. High level services generally include a mix of formal home help and personal...

The End of Life Choice Act 2019 came into law in New Zealand on 7 November 2021. From that date, those over 18 who experience unbearable suffering from a terminal illness can legally ask for medical assistance to end their lives. The legislation sets tight controls on who can avail...

In recent years, significant changes were made to the way health services are delivered throughout New Zealand. Previously 20 regional District Health Boards (DHBs) provide or organise health services across the country. As of mid-2022: Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora manages all health services, including hospital and specialist...

Socialising improves our mood, our mental health, and indirectly our physical health. On those counts alone it’s worth it. Perhaps you’ve lost a partner, or friend who used to accompany you or who you used to meet up with. Just getting out gives you yet unknown opportunities that you wouldn’t...