Taking a break

A caring role is often stressful; 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 Health New Zealand | 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.