Eldernet Community

Every day, dirty water kills more than 1,000 children under the age of 5. That’s one child… every 90 seconds.

Please consider making a special gift to bring clean Water For Life to people in places like Nigeria, living with a deadly water crisis.

It is devastating for families who live with the daily threat of disability caused by Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) like River Blindness. These diseases are cruel, but they are entirely preventable – if only families had access to clean, safe water.

Thanks to generous cbm New Zealand supporters, your gift will be doubled by this year’s Christmas Miracle Match Fund to bring clean Water For Life to the people who need it most!

Learn more…

Always a reason to dress up - Halloween 2025.

A Huge Thank You to Bunnings Warehouse!

We are incredibly grateful to Bunnings Warehouse Hamilton for their generous donation of a Grill, Stove, and Butane cannisters to Kimihia Home & Hospital.
Special thanks to Rizna, our amazing Activities Coordinator, for making this possible!
This contribution will help us during community events and emergency situations, ensuring we can prepare meals and cater to the needs of the residents.
Your support means so much to us.

Come and see our great value retirement living options at Waiapu Village in Havelock North.

Spacious, modern and surrounded by park-like grounds, a villa or apartment at Waiapu Village offers the perfect combination of freedom and security in a close-knit community.

Call Brett on 027 295 2181 for a personal tour.

Waiapu Village
10 Danvers Street
Havelock North

Tel: 027 295 2181
Email: village.waiapu@hll.org.nz

Survey Reveals Pain as Top Health Issue Among Seniors
In a recent survey of our senior community, the most frequently cited health concern was chronic pain—from arthritis, low back and neck discomfort, shoulder and joint stiffness. For many, pain is not just a symptom, it’s a daily barrier to mobility, socialising, sleep and “owning their health”.

Introducing Bioptron: A New Approach to Pain Relief
Bioptron Hyperlight Therapy is medically certified and described by the manufacturer as “an excellent and effective therapeutic tool in the treatment of any pain, without known side-effects”. Zepter Bioptron Hyperlight
Here’s why it stands out:

• It penetrates deep into tissue, accelerating healing by boosting micro-circulation. Zepter Bioptron Hyperlight

• It reduces inflammation by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines (like TNF-α) and increasing anti-inflammatory ones (such as IL-10). Zepter Bioptron Hyperlight

• It dampens nociceptive (pain) signals, by stimulating nitric oxide production, reducing nerve irritation and ischemic pain. Zepter Bioptron Hyperlight

• It supports tissue repair, increasing collagen and elastin, which strengthens soft tissues and improves mobility. Zepter Bioptron Hyperlight

Real-life Impact for Seniors
For a senior dealing with osteoarthritis, reduced walking distances, and compromised sleep due to pain, Bioptron offers a home-based solution: just about 10 minutes per day can make a difference. Zepter Bioptron Hyperlight It’s ideal for tackling everyday musculoskeletal pain—low back, neck, shoulders—and chronic conditions like rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. Zepter Bioptron Hyperlight

Why This Matters to You

• Improved Mobility & Independence: By lowering pain and inflammation, Bioptron helps restore joint movement and walking ability. Zepter Bioptron Hyperlight

• Better Sleep & Quality of Life: With less pain interfering, day-to-day comfort increases.

• Reduced Medication Reliance: While it’s not a replacement for clinical care, its low-risk profile makes it a complementary option for seniors seeking non-drug options.

• Ease of Use: No complex setup needed—simple to apply at home for short sessions.

If you’re a senior (or caring for one) who finds pain is limiting your “Own Your Health” ritual—whether it’s a morning walk, gardening, or enjoying time with family—consider how Bioptron could be the missing link to unlocking more freedom. Contact us today to learn more about how Bioptron can become a part of your daily health routine.

Excitement is mounting at The Sterling, Kaiapoi as construction officially begins on the highly anticipated amenities building; an essential step toward completing the thriving North Canterbury retirement village.

Designed to be the heart of The Sterling, Kaiapoi community, the new amenities building will house the village’s reception, a clubhouse, lounge, cinema, café, restaurant, bar, library, and a state-of-the-art wellness centre. The surrounding grounds will feature a community vegetable garden, glasshouse, putting green, multi-use pavilion, children’s playground, BBQ area, and facilities for lawn bowls, pétanque, and croquet.

Village General Manager Suzi Cadigan says the project is generating immense excitement among residents.

“The anticipation around this development is electric,” says Suzi. “Residents are eager to enjoy their brand-new swimming pool, spa, sauna, and gym – not to mention the luxury of having a cinema, café, and a permanent clubhouse right at their doorstep.”

Beyond enhancing village life, the amenities building will also provide a boost to the local economy, creating new jobs and welcoming the public to enjoy the café and outdoor areas.

“The Sterling, Kaiapoi has always been envisioned as an inclusive, intergenerational community,” explains Suzi. “By opening our café to the public, and employing local talent, we’re not just building a retirement village – we’re fostering a vibrant hub for the wider Silverstream community.”

Since construction began in 2021 as part of the Silverstream Estate development by Lime Developments, The Sterling, Kaiapoi has rapidly expanded. The first stage saw the establishment of the village offices and temporary clubhouse, followed by architecturally-designed retirement villas. Today, 113 residents call The Sterling, Kaiapoi home, with 76 villas already completed.

“The demand for our villas has been incredible,” says Sales Manager Michelle Allan. “We’ve just released our Stage Seven villas, including the milestone 100th villa to go on sale. With 184 homes planned altogether, and the amenities building taking shape, we’ve now passed the halfway point in our development.”

The Sterling, Kaiapoi’s final development stages will include a care home, dedicated memory care suites, and a selection of modern retirement townhouses.

“With the amenities building on the way, The Sterling, Kaiapoi is truly becoming the vibrant, modern, and welcoming retirement destination we envisioned from the start,” says Suzi.

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❤️ STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO RESPITE CARE❤️

Caring for someone you love is deeply rewarding — but everyone needs a break sometimes. That’s where respite care comes in.

We make it simple to organise the right support so you can rest easy knowing your loved one is safe, cared for, and comfortable at home.

Here’s how it works:

1. Recognise when it’s time for a break — You deserve rest too.
2. Decide on the type of care required — from companionship to personal care.
3. Choose in-home or facility care — whichever brings peace of mind.
4. Contact a trusted provider — someone who understands your needs.
5. Organise a quick assessment (if needed) — so the care fits perfectly.
6. Book the care and take a breath — your loved one is in good hands.

Whether you need a few hours to recharge or a few days away, Home Carers is here to help.

Our Services Include

• Home Help
• Wellness Checks
• Morning and Evening Support
• Shopping & Meal Prep
• Hospital to Home
• Overnight Support + 24/7
• Dementia Care
• Friendly Calls
• Respite Care

Whether it's just a few hours a week or full-time care, we’ll tailor a plan that works for your family.

❗Why Choose Home Carers?❗

Since 2014, Home Carers has supported hundreds of families across Christchurch and Tauranga. We’ve delivered more than 100,000 hours of care, all with one goal — to help people remain in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by the things and people they love.

If you’re caring for someone with dementia or any condition that makes daily living harder — you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to walk alongside you so you can keep the moments that matter most.

Call us on 0800 227 686
Email info@homecarers.co.nz
Visit homecarers.co.nz

Because caring for yourself helps you care even better for them.

Our friendly, door-to-door service provides safe, reliable, and caring transport for seniors who no longer drive — whether it’s to a medical appointment, a family gathering, or a relaxing outing. With Dementia NZ certification, NZQA Health and Disability qualifications, and First Aid training, you can trust that every trip is handled with genuine care and professionalism. Best of all, you’ll always see the same friendly face behind the wheel — offering comfort, companionship, and peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

The Value of a Funeral and Pre-planning

Throughout our lives we mark milestones. We celebrate birthdays, graduations, weddings and anniversaries. A funeral is a chance to mark a major milestone in the life of a family.

Everyone has a story to tell, and even those who appear, on the surface, to have lived an ‘ordinary 'life, have things that make them unique.

Ferdi Bosch, General Manager of Seddon Park Funeral Home says his team is very aware of the need to mark the milestone of death.

“Some people tell us they don’t want a funeral because they don’t want to put their family through the stress of having to organise things at a difficult time. But funerals are not just for the person who has passed away, they are very much for the living,” says Ferdi.

Funerals serve a greater purpose than simply saying goodbye. They are often the spark that brings family members together. They help to smooth conflict and reaffirm the importance of family connections in day-to-day life. Funerals provide healing and are a good start on the journey of grief. They provide an opportunity to express feelings without having to hide away.

Ferdi says funeral’s don’t have to be grand events. They can be very simple. He sees them as a chance for friends to show their support, and many families welcome hearing stories about things they might not have known about their loved ones.

“One of the best things about funerals now is that they can be done to suit the needs of the families who want to hold services in a garden, sport clubs or even in the back yard”

“Some people think that not having a funeral will shield them away from the pain of grief, but we find it actually makes it harder,” says Ferdi

“More people are choosing to write down their wishes, and this is very important. It means they can choose their own music, venue for the service, and even things like flowers they want”

He says this takes the pressure off a family at a very difficult time because they have fewer decisions to make, and they know they’re following the wishes of their loved one.

Without doubt funerals are emotionally difficult, but they can also be a wonderful time for sharing great memories. They can be a celebration of a good life, and a celebration of family ties.

“We encourage people to think carefully before saying they don’t want a funeral. Today’s funerals are not the sombre affairs of days gone by, and that’s a very good thing.”

Request our free pre plan funeral booklet “a time such as this”. This will give you the chance to put down your funeral wishes. email us at info@seddonpark.co.nz or call us on 07 846 1561

It was our first time to learn about Diwali at Kimihia Home, our staff created a Rangoli on the floor, with assistance from our residents in gathering flowers from the garden. The festivities included a captivating performance by Staff, followed by a delightful meal. We extend our gratitude to our exceptional staff.

Lockerbie Village Open Day

Saturday 15 November - 10am till 2pm

Tour our Lodge, explore homes for sale & meet residents. Enjoy a village walk & a cuppa on us! Join us in beautiful Waikato

Celebrating Diwali Together

Our team and residents lit up the day with colour, laughter, and celebration as we came together for Diwali – the Festival of Lights!

The day was filled with joy — from beautiful traditional clothing and intricate henna designs to energetic dancing and delicious Indian food lovingly prepared by our amazing staff. We enjoyed every bite, from fragrant savoury dishes and sweet treats to Indian popcorn and refreshing mango lassis!

It was truly a wonderful day of sharing culture, connection, and light — reminding us how special it is to celebrate together.

Happy Diwali!

Breakfast in bed or full sit-down service from 8am.

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to fall into a sense of complacency regarding personal safety. Whether at home or out and about, our routines often lull us into a feeling of security. However, maintaining vigilance is crucial to ensuring the safety of ourselves and our loved ones. Here’s a timely reminder to reassess and reinforce your personal safety strategies.

Strengthening Your Safe Haven

1. Lock It Up: Ensure all entry points to your home – doors, windows, and garages – are secure with sturdy locks. Consider a home security system with cameras and motion sensors for an extra layer of protection.
2. Emergency Plan: Regularly update and practice a family emergency plan. Know your escape routes, have a designated meeting spot, and ensure everyone knows how to contact each other in case of separation.
3. Safety Audit: Conduct a periodic review of your home’s safety features. Check smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers to ensure they are in working order.
4. Stranger Awareness: Be cautious about sharing personal information with unfamiliar individuals. If someone shows up at your door unsolicited, verify their identity before opening your door.

Staying Alert in Public

1. Situational Awareness: Keep your awareness tuned to your surroundings. Avoid distractions such as texting or using your phone when walking in unfamiliar areas.
2. Secure Your Belongings: Always be mindful of your possessions. Keep a close eye on your wallet or handbag, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle.
3. Travel Smart: When using public transportation or ride-sharing services, confirm the identity of your driver and check that the vehicle matches the description provided by the app.
4. HaloGuard Wearable Alarm and Safety App: Consider investing in your personal safety with the Haloguard wearable alarm and safety App (available on both the Google Play Store and Apple App store), add your trusted guardians so you have a quick, easy and discreet way to alert your loved ones when you need help.

Safety is an ongoing journey and by taking some of the steps mentioned above you can create a safety net that allows you to maintain safety and independence while giving you peace of mind.

Stay safe everyone xxx

Sharron, Polly & Joy

DOPAMINE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

- What's that?!

Hi I'm Jen from The Gentle Art Company!

I'd love to tell you about some workshops I'm running between now and christmas on the Northshore. You can come to me, I can come to you or we get some girlfriends together and have a group workshop at your venue!

Dopamine Christmas Decorations are like a burst of holiday happiness for your home. Bright, bold, maximalist and unapologetically fun!

Inspired by the dopamine decor trend, these wreaths and topiaries are all about using vibrant colors, quirky ornaments and a sprinkle of sparkle to boost your mood and your visitors too! Its like maximalist magic, meets festive joy. It's EXTRA everything!

The Christmas Wreath Workshop - Dopamine Wreath @ 45cm Diametre

- $55

- All materials supplied

- 2 hour duration

- You need your own glue gun and plenty of glue sticks and anything you'd like to incorporate into your wreath

- You can come to my Glenfield studio, maximum of 4 people *not wheelchair friendly sadly

- I can come to you, 1 on 1 is totally fine

- We can get a group together at your venue (larger than 4) and I can come to you

The Christmas Topiary/Table Centrepiece Workshop

* please have a look through the photos on my listing to view the Dopamine Topiary/Table Centrepiece @ 45cmH

- $100

- All materials supplied

- 3 hour duration

- You need your own glue gun and plenty of glue sticks and anything you'd like to incorporate into your topiary

- You can come to my Glenfield studio, maximum of 4 people *not wheelchair friendly sadly

- I can come to you

- We can get a group together at your venue (larger than 4) and I can come to you

I will be there to guide, coach, cheer, encourage and empower you into your wildly imaginative, dopamine christmas decor!

If you're interested in making your christmas decor a little bit quirky, way fun and bursting with colour and energy this season, please contact me.

You can find me at hello@thegentleartcompany.nz

021 139 6840

Facebook & Instagram @thegentleartcompany

Sensory is for Everyone

When people hear the terms sensory input or sensory regulation, they often associate it with children—particularly those with sensory processing challenges or neurodiverse needs. Sensory play, therapy tools, and weighted blankets are commonly marketed for kids who need support with focus, emotional regulation, or calming strategies. However, sensory input is a fundamental part of human life at all ages. We all engage in sensory activities daily—often without realising that they help us regulate our emotions, focus, and overall well-being.

Why do we associate sensory with children?

Children are naturally more expressive in their sensory needs. A child might seek movement by jumping on a trampoline, crave deep pressure through hugs, or feel overwhelmed by loud noises in a crowded place. Because sensory needs are more obvious in childhood to those living or working with them, interventions such as sensory-friendly classrooms, therapy swings, or fidget toys are widely recognised as tools for kids. But what happens when kids grow up?

How Adults use Sensory Input for Regulation

Even if we don’t think about it, we constantly seek out sensory experiences to help us stay balanced. Here are some common ways people regulate through sensory input:

• Deep Pressure & Weighted Input: Many people wrap themselves in a heavy blanket at night to sleep better or seek out a firm hug when feeling overwhelmed. Some even enjoy the pressure of compression clothing or firm handshakes, which provide grounding sensations.
• Movement & Vestibular Input Rocking in a chair, stretching after sitting too long, pacing while on the phone, or even going for a run are all ways adults regulate through movement.
• Oral Sensory Input: Chewing gum, sipping a warm drink, eating crunchy snacks, or even biting nails are ways we engage with oral sensory input to focus or self-soothe.
• Tactile Sensory Input: Rubbing soft fabrics, playing with stress balls, clicking pens, or touching smooth stones can help regulate the nervous system. Many people wear comfortable clothing that satisfies their need for soft or breathable textures.
• Auditory & Visual Sensory Input: Listening to music, using noise-cancelling headphones, dimming the lights, or watching calming videos are ways people manage their auditory and visual environment to maintain comfort and focus.

Recognising Sensory Needs for a Better Life

By understanding that sensory input isn’t just for children, we can better support ourselves and others in maintaining emotional and physical well-being. The next time you catch yourself rocking in a chair, squeezing a pillow, or reaching for a stress ball, recognise that your body is seeking sensory input. Paying attention to what feels good or overwhelming can help you create a sensory-friendly environment that supports your daily life.

Sensory needs don’t disappear with age. They simply become less obvious to observers. But once we recognise them, we can use them to our advantage at every stage of life. Sensory regulation is a lifelong need for all.

Feel free to contact us on 0800 34 34 38 for further information or sales@sensorycorner.co.nz.

Products ideas for seniors

Use "ELDERNET10" at checkout and enjoy $10 off when you spend $50 or more on our site - Exclusive to the Eldernet family!

Client Stories - Declutter to downsize

Making the decision to move to a smaller home is a big decision and getting TaskMasters involved early in the process was John’s BEST decision.

John’s partner had passed away and he was living in the family home of many years. John knew he had to downsize, but he was feeling overwhelmed with the process and how he was going to go about this enormous task on his own.

TaskMasters worked alongside John for several weeks leading up to getting his house on the market systematically going through every room in his home including the garage to help John decide what he wanted to take with him, what could be sold on his behalf and what was able to be donated or discarded.

“Faced with downsizing to a tight deadline the prospect could not have been more daunting. Taskmasters stepped in, over several weeks bringing order to everything, and aiding with much empathy the decisions on what to keep and what should go, with a ready knowledge of suitability for giving away or auction, or dumping as a last resort. They became a trusted advisor. Thank you, Taskmasters, for going beyond any expectations, giving me peace of mind, and then leaving me at ease in the new flat.” John Tiley

From your garage to a great cause: You donate, SPCA collect, animals benefit!

Moving into a retirement village or downsizing? You don’t have to struggle with large furniture you no longer need.

Our free pick-up service makes it simple to pass on good-quality items directly from your home. Once in our SPCA Op Shops, your donations are sold to raise vital funds to help protect over 30,000 animals each year – animals who are sick, abused, injured or vulnerable.

It’s a hassle-free way to declutter, simplify your move, and make a meaningful difference all without lifting a finger.

Book a free pick-up (select regions): spca.nz/opshops/free-pickup-service

We have a hospital bed available now... please call Lee on 027 508 3809 to come and see our beautiful 'gem' on High Street! The food is delicious and the staff are friendly, professional and welcoming... our recently renovated facility offers fantastic activities for all to enjoy :-)

Put Highview on your list to visit today, there is easy parking just waiting for you!

Sharing our latest article on how to make great first impressions when you're selling your home. Driveways, your house and roof, your lawns and gardens all make a first impression so don't leave it to chance, take a read

READ IT HERE

From Dough to Delicious - Italian Style!

The Kaimai Neighbourhood was transformed into Little Italy today — complete with the smell of freshly baked pizza wafting through the air and a whole lot of laughter!

Our amazing kitchen team whipped up the most delicious pizza dough and laid out trays overflowing with tasty toppings. Residents became true Italian chefs for the day, having their own masterpieces created of them piled high with all their favourites.

Once the pizzas were baked to perfection, everyone gathered together to enjoy their yummy creations ...Bellissimo!

Ear Wax Removal (Microsuction)

It’s completely normal to have wax in your ears. In fact, healthy ears need a little wax — it helps to protect the ear canal by trapping dust, dirt, and germs.

Over time, though, wax can build up and cause problems with hearing, fullness, or discomfort. This can happen more often as we get older, because the ear’s natural cleaning process slows down. Hearing aids or cotton buds can also push wax further into the ear, leading to blockages.

Why We Recommend Microsuction

At Kapiti Hearing, we use microsuction – the safest and most effective method for removing ear wax.

Compared with traditional ear syringing or irrigation, microsuction offers several advantages:

• Gentle and comfortable – most people find it quick and easy

• Safe for sensitive ears – suitable even if you’ve had ear surgery or a perforated eardrum

• No water – your ear canal stays dry, reducing the risk of infection

• Clear view – our nurses can see exactly what they’re doing throughout the procedure

Safe, Local Care You Can Trust

Our registered nurses at Kapiti Hearing, Waikanae, are specially trained in ear wax removal using microsuction. We take care to make the procedure comfortable and stress-free.

If you’re finding your ears feel blocked, your hearing aids aren’t working as well, or you simply want to keep your ears healthy, we’re here to help — right here in the Kapiti community.

A Morning with Judy Bailey at Remuera Gardens

We’re thrilled to announce that broadcasting legend Judy Bailey will be joining us as part of our 40th anniversary celebrations.

Her most recent book, Evolving, weaves together the latest science with personal stories that have shaped her journey into later life — and she’ll be sharing these insights with us in a special Q&A session on Saturday 18th October from 10am.

The event will be held in our brand-new Avenue Apartments at Remuera Gardens, 57 Richard Farrell Avenue.

As Judy herself says: “I’m not a fan of the word ‘retirement’ — it sounds so passive. I look on it as an evolution.”

Don’t miss this chance to hear from the ‘Mother of the Nation’ offering her inspirational perspective on life and ageing.

Event Details:

• Event: Judy Bailey Q&A
• Date: Saturday 18th October
• Time: From 10am
• Address: 57 Richard Farrell Avenue, Remuera, Auckland.

RVSP below to express your interest – spaces are limited and tickets will be allocated, we’ll be in touch to confirm your spot!

https://remueragardens.co.nz/judy-bailey/

Live-In Care: Your life, your way, around the clock

At Dovida, we believe home is where the heart is – and more importantly, it’s where you should be able to stay for as long as possible. Our new Live-In Care service brings 24/7 support directly to your doorstep, ensuring you can continue living life your way in the comfort and familiarity of your own home.

What is Live-In Care?

Live-In Care provides round-the-clock support and companionship for people who need assistance with daily activities but want to remain in their own homes. Your dedicated caregiver becomes part of your household, offering personalised care, emotional support, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing help is always just a room away.

Your Home, Your Rules: Live-In Care means never having to say goodbye to the things you love most – your garden, your neighbourhood friends, your beloved pet, or that perfect reading spot by the window. You maintain your independence and connection to your community whilst receiving the support you need to thrive.

Around-the-Clock Peace of Mind: Your caregiver is present in your home at all times, providing active care during the day and remaining on-hand overnight whenever assistance is needed. It’s like having a trusted family member who’s always there when you need them.

Truly Person-Centred Care: Every Live-In Care plan is tailored specifically to your needs, preferences, and daily routines. Your caregiver gets to know you – not just your care requirements, but your personality, your stories, and what makes you smile.

Find out more: Dovida Live-in Care - an alternative to residential care

Delightful & Affordable 1-Bedroom Villa

Villa S is located on private village grounds, has a light and spacious interior, and a peace of mind maintenance service. The Villa has a full kitchen, combined bathroom - laundry and heatpump for winter comfort. The 1-bedroom Villa provides pleasant and open plan living.

When it comes to everyday life, Palms Lifecare & Village makes it easy with a choice of villas, apartments and a large rest home with hospital rooms; complete with ensuites, WiFi and a call system. We also offer day, short-stay, respite and convalescence care.

Light, bright and welcoming, Palms Lifecare is set amongst park-like grounds just a hop, skip and a jump from the popular Pukekohe town centre.

If you have any questions or to arrange a personal tour call Kellie on 027 725 6786 or email: village.palms@hll.org.nz.

Smiles All Around!

Today we celebrated International Smile Day, and our team went all out to make it one to remember. Think bright clothes, smiley stickers, sunshine songs, jokes galore, and of course… cupcakes and biscuits with big grins on them!

One of the highlights was our “What makes you smile?” chat. From spring flowers to family, it was heartwarming to hear the little (and big!) things that bring joy to our residents.

It was a day filled with laughter, sweet treats, and plenty of happy faces. From our team to yours — Happy International Smile Day!