Caring for ageing parents
Dementia Mate Wareware: Is the outlook brighter?
In the past, a dementia diagnosis has been seen as a fast track into a care home; today, there are new research studies and innovations to support those living with dementia, and hopefully bring us a few steps closer to a cure. Research into dementia has come a long way....
What is equity release?
The concept of home equity release involves converting a portion of your home’s value into cash, while still allowing you to live there. Usually, this is in the form of a reverse mortgage. When you sell the home or die, the full loan plus interest has to be repaid. Currently,...
What should I be clear about when exploring respite options?
Respite generally means taking a break from your usual responsibilities, but its meaning — and how you access it — can vary depending on the context. In the health sector, you might be advised that you or someone you support could benefit from respite or carer support. However, that doesn't...
Compression garments - benefits and cost
A compression garment is a specialized type of clothing designed to provide gentle, consistent pressure to specific areas of the body. These garments are typically made from elastic materials and are worn snugly against the skin. They come in various styles, such as sleeves, stockings, socks, gloves, each catering to...
What should I do if I suspect I have dementia?
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...
Are there legal measures to prevent abuse of assisted dying?
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...
The hard conversations e.g., I don’t think mum’s coping
It’s important to understand, in the first instance, that some people are happy to live the way they do. They may not have lived this way in the past, however some are happy to make a trade off with the standard of living they have now, with their ability to...
Can I get home help if I live with other people?
This depends on a number of factors including why you need the services, whether other household members can help out and whether you have a Community Services card. Importantly, in April 2023, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora announced a change to the way that family care is funded....
Tips to improve your brain health
As we get older, we may start feeling like we’re not as mentally sharp as we were 10 – or even 5 – years ago. While this can be frustrating, it’s unfortunately a normal part of ageing. In fact, we all experience changes to brain functionality as early as our...
What is an assessment?
When people in the older persons’ health sector are talking about an assessment, they’re generally talking about the interRAI assessment , otherwise know as a needs assessment. (Other assessments include ACC, mental health, equipment and housing modification assessments.) The interRAI assessment is the standard assessment ‘tool’ (a computer-based programme) used...
What is the assessment process?
The process begins with the assessor talking to you (and your family if you agree) or any carer you might have, about your needs, making observations and referring to other clinical information. It's known as an interRAI (or needs) assessment. Read more about the the interRAI assessment here. Assessors are...
What is going to keep you functioning as well as possible?
A car that runs well, is looked after. So too with us; how we function depends on the maintenance of the vehicle that carries us along. While our genetic makeup and our past lifestyle plays a part, there is a lot that can be done to not only maintain our...
I’m worried about my neighbour. Should I check on them?
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,...
Can assistive equipment make my life easier?
Many people are not aware of the equipment and mobility solutions on the market. You may only need one or two pieces of equipment to make all the difference between managing and feeling unsafe. Find out as much as you can. Ask your friends and family, go online, get brochures...
How much are rates rebates in New Zealand?
For older people, particularly those on low or set incomes, rates increases can be stressful. A rates rebate gives some relief. The threshold was increased for the 2025/2026 year: Maximum rebate $805. Income threshold $32,210. If you think you are eligible, contact your local council after you get your rates...
What is ‘My Health Passport’?
‘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’...
Are some home support services free?
Some home support services may be free to the client. There may be a part charge or you may have to pay for your services yourself. It depends on your situation. Funding agencies such as the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) and Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, the government...
What is interRAI?
interRAI is a well-tested and researched assessment tool used in Aotearoa New Zealand and many other countries around the world. There are a range of assessments designed to suit various populations groups e.g. children, youth, adults etc. Individual assessments are conducted around Aotearoa New Zealand. These provide health professionals and...
I don’t own a driver’s licence. How can I prove my identity?
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...
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