Eldernet Community

Tena Proskin FLEX Large- WAS $62 NOW $45

A high absorbency helps manage urine or faecal matter.
This wrap-around has a 4-tape fastening system for extra security and comfort- that features a belt that makes it simple to use the toilet as normal or change. It is anatomically shaped and provides a comfortable fit. Size: (waist 83-120cm) Absorbency: 1375-2292ml Pkt/30

https://www.nursemaudehealthandmobilityshop.co.nz/product/tena-pro-skin-flex-super-large-pkt-30/

What if pain relief is just light away?

Do you or someone you love live with chronic pain, arthritis, stiff joints or itchy rashes that never seem to settle?
Wondering if there is a more natural way to support your body, alongside what you already do with your doctor or therapist?

This March we are hosting two free in person BIOPTRON Light Therapy workshops in Auckland and Nelson.
Perfect if you already own a light, or if you are simply curious about how medical light therapy works and whether it could help.

Auckland Free Workshop

Maximise the Benefits of Your BIOPTRON Light

When: Saturday 14 March 2026, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Where: BIOPTRON Head Office
Unit C, 5 Paul Matthews Road, Albany, Auckland 0632

What you will learn:

How BIOPTRON light therapy works and what makes polarised and hyperpolarised light different

Fullerene filters, what they are, and how they may help counter some of the potential negative impacts of modern technology

The 7 colour filters and how to use them for mood, sleep, energy and general wellness

Practical tips on positioning, treatment times and how to get the best coverage for pain, skin issues and whole body support

Open Q and A so you can ask about your own situations

Please bring your own lunch. Light breaks are included during the day.

To RSVP for Auckland:
Email: info@zepternz.co.nz

Phone: 09 475 5589

Bring a friend who might benefit too.

Nelson Free Community Workshop

BIOPTRON Light Therapy and Colour Wellness

Hosted by Christine and Sam Carter

When: Saturday 7 March 2026, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Where: Founders Park, Jaycee Room
87 Atawhai Drive, The Wood, Nelson 7010

What you will learn:

Introduction to BIOPTRON, polarised light, the new Hyperpolarized lens and C60 glasses

How the 7 colours are used in light therapy and how they may support mood, sleep, pain and general balance

Colour wellness programs you can follow at home

How to combine light with simple acupressure information for even deeper relaxation and support

Lunch is a shared meal. Please bring a plate.
Written information will be available. You are welcome to bring a memory stick so you can copy the material and save paper.

To RSVP for Nelson:
Email: 08002bwell@gmail.com
with your name and number of attendees
Phone or text: 027 295 3333 or 0800 229 355

Find Out About Bioptron

Floral Morning Tea

Monday was the first day of our Outdoors Week and we hosted a beautiful Floral Morning Tea at reception, and what a lovely time it was.

Residents joined us to enjoy a stunningly arranged table filled with delicious treats and gorgeous floral touches. It was wonderful to see everyone relaxing, chatting, and soaking up the atmosphere.

The highlight of the morning was potting their very own succulent to take back to their rooms — a little living keepsake to brighten their space and remind them of a special morning shared together.

It truly was a beautiful time, filled with smiles, creativity, and connection.

How to Use Your 224 Hours of Funded Respite Care?

If you’re caring for an older loved one, taking a break isn’t a luxury – it’s essential.
Through Te Whatu Ora’s Carer Support Subsidy, many family carers are eligible for:

224 hours of funded respite care each year
That’s the equivalent of 28 full 8-hour days of support.

Respite care gives you time to rest, recover, attend appointments, or simply recharge – while your loved one is safely supported.

Here are four practical ways you can use your 224 hours:

1️⃣ TAKE A FULL WEEK OFF
7 consecutive days of care
8 hours per day
56 hours used

❤️ Perfect for:
- Taking a short holiday
- Recovering from illness or burnout
- Managing urgent family situations

[This option gives you proper time to switch off and reset]

2️⃣ A FWE HOURS EACH WEEK

4 hours of care per week
Lasts for 56 weeks (over a year)
224 hours used

❤️ Perfect for:
- Regular weekly rest
- Running errands
- Attending appointments
- Preventing carer burnout

[Small, consistent breaks can make a big difference to your wellbeing]

3️⃣ OVERNIGHT STAYS

8 hours of care per week
Up to 28 overnight visits per year
224 hours used

❤️ Perfect for:
- Getting uninterrupted sleep
- Evening respite
- Emergency or unplanned support
- Times when night-time care is most demanding

[A full night’s rest can be life-changing for carers]

4️⃣ MIX AND MATCH

For example:

1 overnight stay (8 hours)
2 half-days per month (4 hours each)
Used flexibly across around 7 months
~224 hours used

❤️ Perfect for:
- Families who need flexibility
- Changing care needs throughout the year
- Combining short breaks with occasional longer support

[This approach lets you tailor respite care to your lifestyle]

❤️ You Don’t Have to Do It All Alone ❤️

Respite care isn’t just about time off – it’s about protecting your health, your energy, and your ability to keep caring long-term. Planning how to use your funded hours can make caregiving more sustainable and less overwhelming.

If you’re unsure how to access respite care, how to book it, or how to use your funded hours in Christchurch or Canterbury, Eldernet can help connect you with trusted local support services.

Discover how Home Carers supports families across Christchurch and Tauranga

Leaving a legacy of love, hope and healing.

Leaving a gift in your Will is one of the most impactful things you could ever do. The fact is, leaving a gift in your Will allows your love to live on, to build an inclusive world for the generations to come.

“It feels such a relief to finally have the peace of mind knowing our loved ones will have clear instructions about our wishes, and having the option to leave a gift to cbm New Zealand to help continue the work we care so deeply about made it even more special.” – Hermie & Des

Learn more…

Open Days

Join us at one of our Open Days and experience retirement your way.

Epsom Village offers an unbeatable location — just a short stroll from Newmarket’s shopping, theatres, cafés, and train station.

We have Open Days coming up every Thursday from 11am to 2pm throughout February, March, and April.

Plus, don’t miss our Summer Special offer.

Sign up before 28 February 2026 and receive up to $15,000 in bonuses:*

$5,000 Appliance Package

$5,000 Moving Package

$5,000 Fee-Free Offer

Apartments sold under Licence to Occupy, subject to availability. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply.

Open Days

5 Northland Spots to Visit with a Support Worker

At Home Support North, we believe that "home support" doesn’t have to mean staying inside the house. Staying connected to our beautiful Northland community is vital for mental well-being and physical health.

Whether you’re using a walker, a wheelchair, or just prefer a flatter path, our region has some world-class accessible spots. If you or a loved one are feeling a bit "house-bound," here are five local favorites that are perfect for an outing with one of our support workers through our private client offering.

1. The Hātea Loop (Huarahi o te Whau), Whangārei
The "Loop" is a local treasure for a reason. This 4.2km path is fully paved, flat, and wide enough for wheelchairs and strollers alike.
The Support Edge: A support worker can help navigate the bridges, find a sunny spot at the Town Basin for a coffee, and ensure the pace is comfortable.
Highlight: The sculpture trail provides plenty of excuses to stop, rest, and take in the view.

2. The Hundertwasser Art Centre
Whangārei’s most iconic landmark is a masterclass in accessible design. From the elevators to the wide gallery spaces, it is designed for everyone to enjoy.
The Support Edge: Navigating art galleries can be tiring. Having a companion to manage the lift access and find seating allows the client to simply enjoy the vibrant colors and the roof garden.

3. Kerikeri Mission Station & Stone Store
For a touch of history, the grounds around the Stone Store are beautifully maintained. While the upstairs of the Stone Store itself has stairs, the surrounding paths and the adjacent Pear Tree Café offer a lovely, flat setting for a day out.
The Support Edge: Our staff can assist with getting in and out of the vehicle and managing the slight gravel transitions common in historical areas.

4. Whangārei Falls (Accessible Viewing Platform)
You don’t have to hike to the bottom to enjoy the majesty of the falls. The main viewing platform near the car park is easily accessible and offers a stunning vantage point.
The Support Edge: Great for a quick "fresh air fix." It’s a short walk from the car, making it an ideal outing for those with limited stamina.

5. Ruakākā Beach (North Pine Side)
Yes, the beach is possible! While sand is a challenge, the paved areas and boardwalks near the Ruakākā Surf Club allow you to see and smell the salt air without the struggle of soft sand.
The Support Edge: Going to the beach can feel "too hard" alone. A support worker provides the physical confidence and the extra set of hands needed to enjoy the Northland coastline safely.

Tips for a Stress-Free Outing
Check the "Mobility Map": Whangārei District Council provides excellent maps showing accessible toilets and parking.
Timing is Everything: We often recommend mid-morning outings to beat the heat and the crowds.
The Right Vehicle: Ensure your transport has enough room for any mobility aids.

Need a hand getting back out there? Our support workers aren't just here for the housework—they are companions who love seeing our clients enjoy the best of the North. Whether it’s a trip to the Basin or a quiet coffee at your favorite local café, we’re here to make it happen.
Contact Home Support North Today to chat about our companionship and community access services.

Lumin Has Arrived!

We are pleased to announce that McKenzie Lifestyle Village has introduced Lumin, a user-friendly digital communication and engagement platform designed specifically for retirement living.

Lumin provides residents with an easy way to stay informed and connected. Through the app, residents will be able to access village news and announcements, activities and event information, reminders, and key village services, all in one place.

With Lumin, residents will be able to:

Receive village announcements and community updates
View upcoming activities and events, and respond to invitations
Access useful village information and services
Set reminders for appointments and important dates
Communicate easily with family, friends, and the village team through simple messaging, phone, and video calls
Benefit from built-in support and alert features

Lumin is available via a dedicated app on phones and tablets and has been designed to be simple and intuitive, with no complicated setup required.

Find out more about Lumin

Open Home

Come and visit one of our newly built two bedroom homes, at 5 Northcrest, Apārangi Village. Hosting an exclusive open home this Saturday, experience what makes Apārangi a unique place to live and enjoy your retirement.

Home for sale at 5 Northcrest, Apārangi Village

New SPCA Truck Service Launches in Southland!

We’re excited to bring our free furniture pick-up service to Southland, helping you donate large, good-quality items directly from your home. Your furniture will be sold in SPCA Op Shops to raise vital funds for animals in need.

Our Southland team now operates Wednesdays and Thursdays, covering Invercargill, Riverton, Gore and Bluff. It’s an easy, no-cost way to declutter while supporting animals in your community.

Book your pick-up, call 03 214 1865

Are you eligible for a 12-month prescription?

From February 2026 some people with stable, long‑term health conditions will be able to receive prescriptions lasting up to 12 months (controlled drugs excluded). Only one co‑payment will be required when prescriptions are first collected.

Most prescriptions are currently limited to three months. This means many people with stable conditions need regular appointments just to renew their scripts.

The upcoming change allows prescribers to offer longer prescriptions where appropriate, helping reduce both the cost and the inconvenience of frequent renewal appointments.

Visit the link below to find out more, or book an appointment with your Carefirst doctor or nurse practitioner to find out if a longer prescription is right for you.

Carefirst Community News: 12-month prescriptions

The Importance of Sensory Input in Aging Community

Why Are Sensory Experiences Important in Old Age?

As people age, sensory functions such as vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell often decline. Mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and reduced social engagement can also limit sensory experiences, leading to isolation, depression, and cognitive decline. Maintaining sensory input is crucial for overall well-being, as it helps older adults stay connected to their surroundings, improve mood, and enhance quality of life.

Sensory Products for Seniors

Benefits
1. Cognitive Health and Memory Retention

Engaging the senses stimulates the brain, helping to maintain cognitive function and slow memory decline. Sensory activities can activate neural pathways, reducing the risk of dementia and enhancing recall. Smells can often bring back memories from the past.

2. Emotional Well-Being and Mental Health

Sensory engagement has a profound impact on emotions. Pleasant sensory experiences—such as soothing textures, familiar scents, or calming sounds—can reduce anxiety, depression, and agitation. This can be of great help for individuals with dementia.

3. Social Connection and Engagement

Limited sensory input can lead to withdrawal from social interactions. Stimulating activities encourage communication, interaction, and participation, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.

4. Physical Health and Mobility

Sensory activities can encourage movement, balance, and coordination, even for those with limited mobility. Gentle sensory exercises promote circulation, reduce stiffness, and improve overall physical health.

Ways to Maintain Sensory Input in Older Adults

Even when vision, hearing, mobility, or interest declines, there are many ways to keep sensory engagement alive.

1. Vision Loss or Impairment
Tactile Stimulation or Touch Exploration:
Use textured fabrics, Weighted Blankets, to provide comforting touch-based experiences. Encourage handling of familiar objects with distinct textures, such as Soft Brushes shells, smooth stones or knitted items.
Aromatherapy:
Incorporate familiar or calming scents (lavender or citrus) to evoke memories and create a soothing atmosphere.
Auditory Stimulation:
Audiobooks, music therapy, and nature and calming sounds can replace visual experiences and provide cognitive stimulation.

2. Hearing Loss or Impairment
Vibration Feedback:
Use Vibrating objects to provide touch and non-auditory input.
Proprioceptive feedback and Tactile Cues:
Weighted lap pads, hand massages and Weighted Animals for relaxation. Weighted animals also provide soft tactile input. Weighted products can be useful for grounding. Fear of gravity, falling, losing balance, or feeling unstable is not uncommon in old age, and weighted products can be useful to bring more comfort, increase feelings of stability and presence. 
Visual input:
Sign language, or written communication to enhance interaction. Visual timers for calming, or signalling a change in activity; watching the sun set (or rise) can be a fabulous calming visual activity.
Music with Low Frequencies:
Deep, rhythmic sounds like drumming or classical music with bass tones can still be felt and enjoyed. The Inmu range of Interactive music cushions are fabulous for tactile and vibration input
3. Limited Mobility
Hand-Based Activities:
Knitting, Theraputty or Fidget items can provide tactile stimulation without requiring full-body movement.
Chair Yoga and Stretching:
Gentle seated exercises help maintain proprioception (body awareness) and prevent stiffness.
Warm or Cool Sensations:
Soothing warm towels, cooling gel packs, or hand massages with Scented Body Lotions can engage temperature-based sensory input.
4. Low Interest or Engagement
Personalied Sensory Kits:
Create memory-based sensory boxes with familiar textures, scents, and objects that resonate with personal history.
Social Storytelling:
Combine sensory stimulation with conversation, such as sharing scented herbs from a garden while discussing past experiences.
Use Nature:
Outdoor exposure, even through an open window or a small indoor garden, provides fresh air, natural scents, and gentle environmental sounds.
Routine Sensory Activities:
Incorporate familiar and predictable sensory experiences into daily routines to create comfort, anticipation, and predictability.

Maintaining sensory experiences in old age is essential for cognitive function, emotional well-being, and physical health. By adapting sensory activities to accommodate vision loss, hearing impairments, limited mobility, or reduced engagement, caregivers and family members can provide enriching experiences that enhance an older adult’s quality of life. Sensory engagement fosters connection, joy, movement, active participation, and a sense of purpose, making everyday life more fulfilling.

Sensory Corner Aids for Daily Living

Rentals

Rentals Short or Long Term, available on a large selection of Mobility Equipment

www.mobilitymanawatu.co.nz

Making downsizing and moving easy

2026 might be your year to move into a smaller home to focus on new joys. If moving and downsizing seems impossible, we are here and with lots of experience and a true purpose in making this easier, we are your partners to simplify the transition into retirement living. Based in the Bay of Plenty, let's have a chat.

Let's Chat

Save $30 on your Enduring Powers of Attorney!

If you’ve got a SuperGold card, you’re eligible for a $30 discount on the cost of setting up your Enduring Power of Attorney with Public Trust.

Simply book an appointment or use the offer code GOLD30 when creating your EPA online. It’s a smart way to plan ahead and save.

Start your EPA online today

Frequently Asked Questions About Dementia Care

If you have a loved one suffering from dementia, you might be considering dementia care in Auckland to ensure your loved one’s safety, happiness and enrichment.

We’ve compiled a list of a few top questions about dementia care below. If you have a question we haven’t touched on or would like more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our specialist dementia care team here at Ambridge Rose.


When should my loved one with dementia go into a care home?

Everyone experiencing dementia will be impacted differently, and over time will likely require a higher level of care as symptoms progress. Look out for signs that your loved one is increasingly unable to look after themselves, maintain hygiene, are at a heightened risk of hurting themselves, or if you as a carer could benefit from some additional support.

We’ve developed an online resource that may be helpful to find out more about how dementia may affect your loved one, and what symptoms may suggest you consider an assessment for residential care.


At what point will dementia patients need 24-hour care?

Dementia care comes in many different forms to cater to the individual needs of your loved one. Round-the-clock care may be the best care option for you and your loved one if you’re worried for your loved one’s safety. It can be difficult to ascertain when their safety is truly at risk but as a rough guideline, things like struggling to drive safely; wandering; disorientation or incoordination around sharp objects or frequent injuries are all signs it may be time to explore dedicated care.

At Ambridge Rose, residents are provided with 24/7 dementia care in our Auckland facilities and have access to round-the-clock support from our healthcare team, with an on-call doctor available as required. Find out more in our online resources.


How are care home staff trained to care for residents with dementia?

At Ambridge Rose we pride ourselves on providing specialist, bespoke dementia care in Auckland for our residents. Our healthcare team are trained in understanding dementia progression, communication techniques to assist with communicating with people who have difficulty with language, memory or reasoning, behavioural management and person-centred care, ensuring a tailored care plan for every resident.

Our staff utilise diversional therapy techniques and activities to tailor to different cognitive abilities, such as reminiscence therapy, sensory therapies such as music and art, pet therapy, common household tasks such as gardening, dancing and singing to music, and open-ended activities like drawing or painting.

This form of dedicated dementia care provides 24-hour supervision due to the increased risk of wandering, falls, and other safety concerns. Staff are trained to intervene effectively and compassionately in difficult situations at all Ambridge Rose facilities.


Can residents with dementia participate in activities or therapies?

Yes, absolutely. Participating in activities and therapies, even in a limited capacity, is encouraged at Ambridge Rose. Participation can help strengthen neurological pathways, stimulate communication and improve quality of life. Check out our online resources for some great activities you can do with your loved one to keep them engaged throughout every season.


What is the process for transitioning a loved one into dementia care?

Dementia care comes in many forms, and as such, the level of care your loved one may require will vary. The dementia care transition process typically begins with a carer seeking support or assistance to effectively care for their loved one, while juggling their own life’s responsibilities, or if the person living with dementia requires extra care beyond a caregiver’s capabilities.


Do you have to pay for dementia care in New Zealand?

There’s a range of options for both subsidised and unsubsidised residential care in New Zealand. For more information on this please visit the Work and Income New Zealand website.

Access to subsidised care will depend on a range of factors, including your ability to pay for dementia care, your location, the degree of care required, and more. Access to dementia care as a service requires ongoing consultation with Health New Zealand. A medical assessment is the first step to determine the dementia care needed from providers like Ambridge Rose.


How do you support families of residents with dementia?

We understand that dementia can be an intense and overwhelming experience for families, so we have a holistic approach to care, ensuring families are supported. We take care to consider individual beliefs, preferences, dietary requirements and can accommodate most requests when putting together a care plan.

Our ‘open door’ policy is always in place, to help families feel able and comfortable to discuss their loved one’s healthcare at any time, and we offer guidance and access to resources for families to seek additional assistance or support. At all our dementia care homes, we hold regular family support groups, where families can come together to share their dementia journey. We also use the AgedConnect app, to share memorable moments of a loved one with their family in a safe and secure way, helping families stay in touch and connected, even if they are unable to visit.

We aim to always be supportive, uplifting, and offer a caring and understanding ear, not only for our residents, but their families too.

Access more helpful resources

Sleeping with dementia: how you can help

Disrupted sleeping regularly affects people living with dementia, impacting their restfulness, health and wellbeing, which can impact the rest and quality of life for their families and loved ones.

Understanding the challenges of sleeping with dementia means you can find practical solutions that work for your loved one and help them get a better night’s sleep.

As a neurodegenerative disorder, the brain changes that occur with dementia directly affect the body’s internal clock. The disorder damages the part of the brain that regulates our sleep-wake cycle, (the suprachiasmatic nucleus), meaning people with dementia often lose their natural circadian rhythm, which impacts every aspect of the rest of your loved one’s life.

This is why a person living with dementia may be wide awake at 2 AM or exhausted just after lunch. Also known as sundowning, this is a common side effect of dementia. Many people experience increased confusion, agitation, and restlessness into the afternoon or as evening approaches. Fading light, such as at sunset, can trigger anxiety and disorientation and caregivers may notice their loved ones often become more challenging or upset during these hours, making bedtime routines increasingly stressful.

Physical discomfort can also inhibit good sleep. Arthritic pain, the need to use the bathroom frequently, or uncomfortable room temperatures may wake someone repeatedly throughout the night, especially if they were a light sleeper before their dementia diagnosis. People who experience sleeping with dementia will naturally struggle to identify or communicate these problems to you and might simply feel distressed without understanding why.

The bedroom should become a sanctuary for your loved one to rest. Keep the room cool, quiet, and dark during nighttime hours. Many families find success with nightlights that provide just enough illumination to prevent falls, without being stimulating and keeping your loved one awake. Blackout curtains can help, especially during New Zealand’s long summer evenings, where it stays hot long into the night.

A small snack before bed can help to prevent hunger from causing nighttime waking. Warm milk or chamomile tea can promote relaxation, though be mindful of how liquids may increase the incidence of more bathroom visits.

Consider whether any active medications your loved one is taking may be affecting their rest. Some dementia medications, as well as treatments for other conditions, may heighten insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness. Discuss timing and dosages with your GP or specialist to see if they have recommendations for the timing of certain medications to improve sleeping with dementia, such as earlier in the day.

Implementing a consistent daily routine forms a foundation for better sleep. The body responds well to predictable patterns, even where dementia has impacted the brain’s internal clock.

We recommend caregivers try to wake the person living with dementia at the same time each morning, serving meals at regular intervals, and beginning the bedtime routine at the same hour every evening. A daily structure like this can gradually retrain disrupted sleep patterns and ease the challenge of sleeping with dementia.

Being exposed to natural light during daytime hours can make a big difference. Take your loved one outside in the morning or open the curtains and window to let sunshine stream in. Bright light tells the brain it’s time to be alert and active. Research shows that exposure to bright ambient light in the morning can significantly improve sleep efficiency and sleep time in older adults with dementia.

Physical activity helps tire the body out. Encourage gentle exercise like walking, gardening, or dancing to familiar music during the day. Avoid vigorous activity after 6pm, as this can have the opposite effect by energising them too close to bedtime. Even simple household tasks like folding laundry or setting the table can provide beneficial movement.

Your patience and care will go a long way towards helping your loved one sleep well and communication will go a long way in soothing stress. It’s very natural for fear, apprehension or disorientation to accompany poor sleep. Many people feel frightened or confused when darkness falls, so providing a familiar object like a favourite blanket, a photo of loved ones on the bedside table, or soft background music can provide comfort at these times. This is a form of reminiscence therapy (RT) which has been noted to be effective with some sleeping with dementia patients.

If sleep problems persist and your loved one isn’t getting regular quality sleep, specialised dementia care facilities can provide relief. Professionals understand how to help people to help those sleeping with dementia get to sleep at night using evidence-based approaches. They maintain structured routines, provide appropriate daytime stimulation, and monitor for underlying health issues that might disrupt sleep.

Access more helpful resources