Taking a break

A caring role is often stressful and no matter how strong and capable you think your carer is, they will need regular time out to recharge their physical and mental batteries.

Day programmes are a great option to allow carers time out to take a break, while offering older people an opportunity to connect with a like-minded community, socialise in a stimulating environment and participate in meaningful activities. There is a range of day programmes (including those subsidised by Te Whatu Ora) and social activities across New Zealand, including those that cater specifically for people with dementia.

Respite/short term care is another option to give carers time away. This type of temporary care is usually provided in a rest home or other residential care facility and is accessed via an assessment approved by your NASC/older person’s service. In some parts of the country, there is a high demand for respite care, so it pays to have a shortlist of care homes that offer it – start searching care homes in your region that offer respite care.