Rotorua Health and Living

ROTORUA

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Tips and advice to help battle winter time coughs and colds

The Ministry of Health’s Healthy Families NZ Initative is focused on encouraging Rotorua whanau to live healthy, active lives by eating well, being physically active, being auahi kore / smokefree and consuming alcohol safely and in moderation

The Rotorua branch of Diabetes NZ is the ďŹ rst port of call for people with diabetes, including those who have recently been diagnosed

If your gambling is having a big impact on your life, or the people close to you, getting help is your best bet

The Rotorua Youth Centre is a community resource dedicated to helping people become involved and the centre always has something going on

JUNE 2015

HEALTH &

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INTRODUCTION

W

elcome to the fifth edition of Rotorua Health & Living. This quarterly magazine can be obtained in your Rotorua Daily Post or complementary at various health providers around the Rotorua region.

Each edition looks at the most relevant and topical health and lifestyle issues Rotorua residents face in their daily lives.

In the March edition we looked at four of the key health issues facing our community, obesity, diabetes, gambling and smoking and examined the impact of these on our health and the health and wellbeing of our family. In this edition we explore some of the options and services available in our community for treatment, support and recovery.

As we head into the coldest months of the year, it’s important to make sure

we are protecting ourselves against colds and flu, and that all the family understands how to minimize the spread of the virus, and how to care for family members affected.

Junk free June has been a really successful initiative, and an NZ first, helping to promote a healthier diet and positive nutritional choices – while at the same time raising funds for the Cancer Society. The aim was to at least give up something that was habitually eaten but not good for your health – so well done to everyone who took up the challenge!

If you have a topic you would like covered, please email Advertising Manager Janine Davy at : Janine.davy@dailypost.co.nz

CONTENTS 3

The colder weather brings coughs, colds and the risk of influenza. Follow these tips on good personal hygiene to reduce your risk of being affected this winter.

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Obesity is becoming a leading preventable cause of death worldwide – but there’s a wealth of organizations in Rotorua offering advice and information on ways to create and maintain a healthier, more active lifestyle, eating well and being physically active.

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Recovery Solutions and Te Utuhina Manaakitanga Trust are two organizations providing care, support and rehabilitation for those overcoming addictions, supporting and empowering clients to make positive changes in their lives.

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Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and although symptoms can be mild and go unnoticed, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health complications.

Diabetes NZ Rotorua branch is the go-to place for the local community for diabetes help, support and information.

The Rotorua Youth Centre is a community resource dedicated to helping young people realize their full potential. Check out what’s currently on offer! Junk Free June – a unique fundraising event helping participants enjoy the inherent health benefits from eating a healthier diet and profiting the Cancer Society with the funds that are being raised.

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If gambling is having a big impact on your life, or the people close to you, getting help and support is your best bet. At the Problem Gambling Foundation, qualified counselors provide free, professional and confidential counseling for gamblers and others affected by gambling.

The HPV immunization programme – while the rates of Rotorua girls taking up the free HPV vaccination is higher than the national average, Rotovegas Youth Health clinical leader Tania Pinfold believes more local parents should get their children vaccinated against the cancer-causing virus.

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The Cancer Society of New Zealand is a leading organisation dedicated to reducing the incidence of cancer and ensuring the best cancer care for everyone.

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Rotorua has a comprehensive array of services to support elderly people

Research has shown that people who use Quitline are five times more likely to successfully quit smoking that those who go it alone. Every year the organization supports 40,000 New Zealanders to beat their addiction.

13 Chronic Conditions – who can help 14 – 15 Community Resources – organizations here to help

Health & Living is published quarterly by The Rotorua Daily Post, 1143 Hinemoa Street, Rotorua.

For advertising enquiries, please contact: Emma Long ph (07) 343 9724 or email emma.long@dailypost.co.nz

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WINTER COLDS & FLU C

atching colds, sniffles and flus is inevitable, especially over the cooler months. Most cold-causing viruses thrive in environments with low humidity, which may be why colds are more common at this time. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, mild-tomoderate fever, cough, headache or body aches, and mild tiredness. While lots of different viruses can cause the common cold, the rhinovirus is most often the one that makes us sneeze and sniffle. It’s highly contagious. When someone with a cold coughs or sneezes they send virusfilled droplets flying through the air.

Because colds spread so easily, the best prevention is avoidance. Good personal hygiene is important. Stay away from anyone who is sick, and avoid sharing utensils and personal items. You can get sick if you touch a surface that has recently been handled by a cold-infected person, and then touch your nose, mouth, or eyes. Wash your hands often with hot water and soap to get rid of any germs you might have picked up during

the day, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Keep your hands away from your nose, eyes, and mouth when they’re not freshly washed. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and always wash your hands afterwards.

Stay home if you’ve got a cold, and rest up. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Some over-the-counter medicines may relieve congestion, aches and other symptoms but antibiotics will not be effective as your cold is a viral infection. It should clear up within a few days. If there has been no improvement after week, or your fever is persistent, see a doctor. You may have a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics.

Catching a common cold doesn’t mean you have the flu. Cold symptoms are generally mild and, in most cases, usually resolve quickly and don’t lead to any serious health complications.

Influenza, on the other hand, is an upper respiratory illness which can develop into a more serious condition, such as pneumonia. Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people

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with immuno-compromising health conditions such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes can be particularly vulnerable.

Flu symptoms can include a dry, hacking cough, a moderate-to-high fever, sore throat, shaking chills, severe muscle or body aches, headache, stuffy and runny nose, and profound fatigue.

Some vomiting and diarrhoea may be experienced, but this is more common in children.

Flu can be treated with fluids and rest.

Decongestants and pain relievers may help you feel better. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs. Call your doctor when you first have symptoms if you’re at risk for complications from the flu.

A flu shot, especially at the start of the flu season, is one way to prevent the flu. Personal hygiene is also important.

Take care to wash your hands often and thoroughly with warm soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth, and try to stay away from anyone who has the flu or flu-like symptoms.

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HEALTH &

OBESITY A

leading preventable cause of death worldwide, obesity has become a major national health concern in New Zealand in recent years, with high numbers of people afflicted in every age and ethnic group. Healthy eating, exercise and behavioural changes are vital components to addressing obesity.

Inactivity puts you at risk. A sedentary lifestyle where you don’t burn as many calories as you take in can be harmful to your long-term health.

Diets high in calories, beverages high in sugar and oversized portions can also lead to weight gain.

The Ministry of Health’s Healthy Families NZ initiative is focussed on encouraging Rotorua wh¯anau to live healthy, active lives, by eating well, being physically active, being auahi kore/smokefree and consuming alcohol safely and in moderation.

Healthy Families Rotorua is led by manager, Leanne Morehu. Two new members, Pollyanne Taare and

Marisa Balle, were recently welcomed to the team. Their aim is to build on the good things that are already happening in Rotorua by growing the Healthy Families initiative in schools, workplaces, marae and community.

Healthy Families Rotorua works with Awhi Rotorua, a prevention partnership group consisting of a wide range of organisations, to develop the initiative in the Rotorua District.

Rotorua Area Primary Health Services (RAPHS), the Primary Health Organisation for people in Rotorua, can also assist. The place to turn to for information on all aspects of health care in the community, RAPHS makes it easier and more affordable for locals to access quality, community based health care and support by working together with health funders, providers and partner organisations.

If you’re worried about your weight, health and inactive lifestyle, and

need extra help to get started, a Green Prescription (GRx) can give you a new lease on life. Available free of charge, a GRx is not a pill or medicine, but a written prescription from your doctor or practice nurse about making some lifestyle changes to improve you overall health. Sport Bay of Plenty provide the service.

The Sport BOP team will work with you to set realistic goals and help you overcome barriers and challenges to being active. They have a wealth of experience and practical ways to improve your well-being. An initial consultation will be arranged for you to meet one of the Green Prescription team to discuss a healthier lifestyle.

As well as suggesting appropriate physical activity and healthy food options available in the community, the team will help you to set goals, provide encouragement and support, and feedback to your doctor or nurse on discharge. Regular follow up is offered for up to six months.

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We offer a 200 seat chapel with refreshments and facilities.

Proud Members of the Funeral Directors Association of NZ.

Funeral Home TEL 07 348 3600 197 OLD TAUPO ROAD ROTORUA www.osbornes.co.nz

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DIABETES D

iabetes New Zealand Rotorua branch is the go-to place for the local community for diabetes help, support and information. Branch president is Karen Reed, who also serves as the area representative for the Upper North Island region of Diabetes NZ and sits on the organisation’s national advisory council and executive board.

Karen knows what it’s like to live with the auto-immune condition after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 10. Her father, and his brother and sister, also have type 1 diabetes.

Karen immigrated from the UK 11 years ago and has settled in Rotorua with her husband and two children.

An advocate for people with diabetes, Karen says she’s always been involved in helping people cope with the condition. “As a child I attended camps. Being in an environment with other kids with diabetes led me into peer support and helping to run camps in the UK.” In her role as Rotorua branch president she ensures that family camps, youth events and various

other activities happen throughout the year. An active sub-committee is responsible for running the youth events.

Every Thursday between 10am-12pm Karen facilitates a weekly support group. Open to everyone, the meetings are held at QE Health where the local diabetes branch has rooms.

“You don’t have to be a member or have diabetes to attend,” says Karen.

“The more the merrier. It’s a very supportive environment.”

Once in a while speakers address the meetings but the informal gatherings largely involve questions and answers and discussing issues around diabetes over a cup of tea.

The Rotorua branch of Diabetes NZ is the first port of call for people with diabetes, including those who have recently been diagnosed. They are afforded access to a wealth of information, education support and advice on how

to access other support services. “We can’t give personalised clinical advice, but we do have lots of generalised information and can help point people in the direction of where they need to go,” advises Karen, who trained as a medical biochemist and medical researcher, and is also a medical writer.

Karen says it’s important to access reliable information and make sense of what is good information online. “We can show people trusted sources.”

Diabetes NZ Rotorua branch opens its rooms from 9.30am-2.00pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Phone enquiries to 07 349 5256.

Donations are always welcome and can be made to https://givealittle. co.nz/org/diabetesnzrotorua/ donations.

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Open Everyday 8am - 10pm 1165 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua Walk - in Clinic, no appointment necessary

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HEALTH &

GAMBLING I

f your gambling is having a big impact on your life or the people close to you, or you’re spending more money or time gambling than you can afford, getting help and support is your best bet. Or it may be someone else’s gambling that you are concerned about. Talking about your gambling or the gambling of someone close to you in a confidential environment can bring huge relief.

At the Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF), qualified counsellors provide free, professional and confidential counselling for gamblers and others affected by gambling. This can be faceto-face, by phone or by email.

Counselling is a private and confidential process. An experienced, qualified professional will work with you to help you find ways of coping that are helpful and lasting. Counsellors empower and encourage clients by working on what they want to work on, for as long as they need. A range of different counselling approaches are used and if clients need other assistance, PGF’s counsellors are connected with their local community to help people easily access that help.

Rotorua counsellor and health promoter, Anaru Haumaha, says getting help is a step in the right direction. “If you think gambling might be a problem for you or someone else in your life, come and have a talk to me. There is a way of getting your life back on track.

top five spenders per adult head of population in the country.

“An important and useful tool for a person experiencing harm from pokie machines is self-exclusion.

A person can exclude themselves from gambling venues which can be helpful for someone in their journey towards recovery. I can help with this process and in relapse-prevention planning.”

For further information please visit www.pgfnz.org.nz

Anaru said a support group was also available. The group meets regularly with group members, providing encouragement and support to each other.

Pokies are the most harmful form of gambling. Over 60 per cent of people who seek help with a gambling problem say it’s because of pokies. Last year, over $19 million was lost on Rotorua District’s 393 pokie machines, located in 27 venues. Rotorua remains in the

If you are worried about your gambling, or just want to talk to someone about it, help is only a phone call or email away: Ph 0800 664 262 Email help@pgfnz.org.nz.

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SMOKING R

esearch has shown that people who use Quitline are five times more likely to successfully quit smoking than those who go it alone, says Quitline communications manager, Sarah Woods. “Every year the organisation supports 40,000 New Zealanders to beat their addiction.”

When people sign up with Quitline, a Quitline advisor works with them to make a Quit Plan and follows up regularly to see how they are doing.

Quitline’s support is free for as long as people need it.

To help ease cravings Quitline offer Quitcards to take to the nearest pharmacy to get an eight week supply of nicotine patches, gum or lozenges for just $5.

non-judgemental advice and support to quit smoking.

Quitline advisors are carefully recruited and complete rigorous training.

Many are ex-smokers with personal experience of the addiction. They work with people to create a quit smoking plan and help them understand their smoking addiction. People are helped to identify the reasons why they smoke and come up with new ways to cope with and beat cravings. They also receive a free Quit Pack with helpful information including The Quit Book and other resources.

Support is available via telephone, online and text. Quitline callers, whose first language is not English, can also avail of the Language Line service to get support to quit smoking in their native tongue. Forty four languages are covered including, Samoan, –ori, Tuvaluan, Tongan, Cook Island Ma Tokelauan, Mandarin and Hindi. To access the service callers need to call 0800 778 778 and clearly say “Language Line” and the language they wish to speak in.

Quitline’s website www.quit.org.nz offers support 24/7. Those registering get their own login and a personalised page. Personalised pages display realtime ‘Quit Stats’ to show people how much money they’ve saved and how many cigarettes they haven’t smoked since they quit. People can share their story on the Quit Blog, a popular forum that connects them with others on the quitting journey. Many find the peer support invaluable. In the past year more than 100,000 blog messages and comments were posted. “You can also opt to receive Quit Tip emails with messages and advice to help you stay strong on the quitting journey,” says Sarah.

Open Monday – Friday, 8.00am – 9.30pm, and Sunday 10.00am – 7.30pm, Quitline’s phone-line offers

To complement its website, Quitline has a Facebook page (facebook.com/ Quitlinenz) to reach out to people

through social media. The content on the page is updated regularly and features quitting tips, motivational quotes and news from Quitline.

Txt2Quit to 3111 is an automated free text service designed to support people with motivational texts. Clients can opt to receive texts in English or Te –ori. Texts are sent regularly for Reo Ma three months.

If a Rotorua caller signs up with Quitline they will also be offered a referral to a local face-to-face service. Providers include Korowai Aroha Health Centre, 07 348 8454; Tuwharetoa Health Charitable Trust, 07 384 7576; and Tipu Ora Charitable Trust, 07 348 2400

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HEALTH &

ALCOHOL R

ecovery Solutions provides tailored and intensive treatment programmes to support clients in their immediate and long-term recovery from mental health problems. The organisation has services throughout the North Island, including Rotorua.

All local referrals come through the Lakes District Health Board. “People who come to us often have concurrent alcohol and other drug problems,” says Recovery Solutions Rotorua location coordinator, Brian Pickering.

Several options are available to clients, including intensive rehabilitation, which is a longer term programme. There is also intensive community support,

or package of care, which provides in-home support, as well as acute alternative respite, that delivers a high level of support to people who are close to being hospitalised. Support is available seven days a week. “We work with our clients to understand the root cause of their addiction and support them to make positive changes in their lives,” says Brian.

Rotorua alcohol and other drugs counselling agency Te Utuhina Manaakitanga Trust also provides a range of services to help people overcome addictions.

A community-based, outpatient counselling service, Te Utuhina Manaakitanga Trust works in a way that is client focused and encouraging, empowering clients to be responsible for setting their own goals and direction so that they can make informed choices, reduce risk to themselves and others, and think twice about using. The trust liaises with support groups to ensure adequate after-care is available for those who want it, and provides referrals to rehab services locally, regionally and nationally.

Te Utuhina Manaakitanga Trust also welcomes self-referrals.

How do you know when you’ve crossed the line from moderate or social use to problem drinking, and what can you do about it? After all, it’s not always easy to figure out where the line is between social drinking and problem drinking, since drinking is so common in many cultures and the effects vary so widely from person to person.

It’s important to be aware of the warning signs, understand the problem, take steps to cut back, and seek professional help and support if you need to. Alcoholism and alcohol abuse can affect all aspects of your life. Long-term alcohol use can cause serious health complications, affecting virtually every organ in your body, including your brain. Problem drinking can also damage your emotional stability, finances, career, relationships, and impact on your family, friends and work colleagues.

If you find problem drinking, binge drinking, drinking blackouts or other alcohol problems are affecting your life and that of your friends and family, Alcoholics Anonymous may be able to provide a solution for you. AA helps people of all ages and backgrounds.

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JUNK FREE J

unk Free June is a unique fund raising event, focused on raising money for The Cancer Society through sponsoring Kiwis to make positive nutritional choices and eat junk free for a month. Unveiled for the first time this year and the first of its kind worldwide, the event is the brainchild of creative director Matt Clayton, the architect behind Junk Free June.

“New Zealanders nationwide have been encouraged to make a positive nutritional choice, by sacrificing a junk food or junk foods for the entire month of June, and having their friends and family donate money in support,” says Matt.

Junk food is typically anything high in sugar, salt, fat with little to no

nutritional value. While it may have been hard to completely cut out everything that was junk, the aim was to at least give up something that was habitually eaten but not good for your health, like fast food or candy bars, for 30 days.

The concept for Junk Free June was essentially to focus on making healthy living fashionable and help people free themselves from the negative things in their life. To achieve this, Matt believed the approach needed to be fresh, edgy and bold. Prizes were introduced as an incentive to encourage people to fundraise. Junk Free June participants were also encouraged to share their progress with the world by using the #junkfreejune hashtag across all social media platforms.

To reduce the need for large marketing budgets, high-profile ambassadors were brought in to engage audiences to help raise awareness and promote Junk Free June. The win:win charity event saw participants enjoying the inherent health benefits from eating a healthier diet and the Cancer Society profiting from the funds that were raised.

“The response from people has been amazing. It seems we’ve really struck a chord with people – the timing of Junk Free June is great. Businesses are basically throwing prizes at us left and right and people are emailing in wanting to contribute in whatever way they can. We couldn’t have asked for a better reaction from New Zealanders.

The next step is to take Junk Free June to the world,” says Matt.

YOUTH CENTRE G

roups and individuals have access to a range of great facilities at the Rotorua Youth Centre. A community resource dedicated to helping people become involved, the centre always has something going on. It’s the place to learn a new skill, socialise and meet new people, or try something you’ve never done before.

Operational for almost 15 years, the Rotorua Youth Centre has run numerous activities and events for young people. “Over the years, we have held the most engagement with dance programmes using our two dance studios,” says manager Steve

Holmes, who began at the youth centre in 2003 and returned again last August.

“Everything we do is about young people realising and achieving their full potential. We channel this through the arts, sports, skill workshops and leadership programmes.”

Steve said the centre’s very passionate and energetic team of dedicated people are all there for one reason and one reason only, to make a difference in the lives of young people.

Currently on offer are driver licensing, make-up artistry, event management

and design (House of Horrors), special effects make-up, vocal training, food revolution (cooking), modelling and catwalk, barista training, urban and hip hop dance.

A recent initiative is a very exciting weekly Thursday afternoon Skill Share Café which aims to be a fun, warm, casual café environment for people young, and not so young, to come and grab a cup of coffee and some food and enjoy a ‘teach something/learn something’ theme. There are volunteers wanting to teach young women how to knit baby clothes and blankets, cooking, gardening, web design and much more.

From workshops and holiday programmes to a great range of activities, the Rotorua Youth Centre has it all, including cafe, pool tables, table tennis and music events. Fulfilling a need in the local community, the centre can also put you in touch with a range of health services. Free health services are available for 15-24 year olds.

Located at 6 Te Ngae Road, the Rotorua Youth Centre is open Monday to Friday from 8:30am – 8:30pm, and Saturday from 2.00pm – 8:30pm.

See www.rotoruayouthcentre.org to check out their full offer.

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HEALTH &

HPV S

tarted in New Zealand in 2008, the HPV immunisation programme aims to protect young women from HPV infection and the risk of developing cervical cancer and a range of other HPV diseases later in life. According to the Ministry of Health, around 150 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 50 women die from it each year in New Zealand.

The development of a highly effective vaccine against the major cancercausing types of HPV is regarded as an important opportunity for the primary prevention of cancer in New Zealand.

Available to all Year 8 girls and is free up to their 20th birthday, either through a school-based immunisation programme or family doctor, the vaccine comprises three doses given over six months.

While Ministry of Health statistics indicate that the rate of Rotorua girls taking up the free HPV vaccination is higher than the national average, Rotovegas Youth Health clinical leader

Tania Pinfold believes more local parents should get their children vaccinated against the cancer-causing virus.

people who are immunised, the better, and the earlier they get the vaccine the greater the benefit.

Without immunisation, four out of five people become infected with HPV at some time in their lives, with the peak incidence of infection between 1620 years. Human papillomavirus is the most common cause of genital cancers, including cervical cancer. Although males also can become infected with HPV and can get genital cancers, the Government currently funds the vaccine for girls and not for boys. HPV is also linked to throat cancer.

She said there was little benefit in waiting until people were sexually active. “The ideal is for the three doses to be given starting at age 12. Sadly, we see young people over 20 years of age who no longer qualify for the funded course, some of whom have developed cervical changes from HPV infection.”

Dr Pinfold said a growing number of Rotorua parents were paying for their boys to have the vaccine. She suggests that HPV vaccination rates should be higher for boys and girls. “The rates of HPV in the general population are so high that everybody should have the benefit of this immunisation. This is one immunisation that we know makes a huge difference to rates of certain cancers in men and women. The more

While there was a steady rate of young people being immunised, the number could be higher Dr Pinfold said the belief among some “misguided” parents that the immunisation would change the sexual behaviour of their children defied logic.

“It is a very important issue because this is a proven cancer prevention.

What parent wouldn’t want to give their child the gift of protection from a common cancer?”

The vaccine has resulted in national decrease in genital warts and cancers.

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CANCER R

eceiving a diagnosis of cancer can be very daunting and is lifechanging news. It affects everyone differently and there are no set rules about how you’re likely to feel, or how you should deal with your emotions.

Should you receive a cancer diagnosis, you may be given a number of options about your treatment. This can mean having to make some complex decisions at an already stressful time. It helps to talk to a health professional or your local cancer support centre. They should be able to guide you through all the information and help you make decisions about your treatment. Having a network of friends, family and support services can help you cope with the impact of a cancer diagnosis.

The Cancer Society of New Zealand is a leading organisation dedicated to reducing the incidence of cancer and ensuring the best cancer care for everyone. The not for profit organisation is also a leading cancer patient advocate, providing a voice on

all kinds of cancer-related issues. There are six regional offices and 16 centres around the country, including one in Rotorua where liaison nurse Leanne Parr is based. The Rotorua office is part of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty division, and is dedicated to improving community well-being by minimising the impact and incidence of cancer.

A cancer diagnosis can cause tremendous uncertainty and upheaval.

During these times the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Cancer Society can provide emotional support, care and practical assistance to complement your cancer treatment and support the public health system.

Caring and dedicated staff will listen to your questions and concerns, provide accurate information about cancer and treatment, offer quality support services and advocacy following a cancer diagnosis and suggest ways to cope with uncertainty. They will also connect you with other support organisations or networks.

The services are free.

Leanne is a friendly, experienced cancer nurse with specialised knowledge and skills in supporting people with cancer in the community. She is available to talk on the phone or visit you at home. When you’re first diagnosed with cancer, you can have so many questions that it can be overwhelming. There are many unknowns, and it’s natural to feel that you’ve lost some control over your life. Being able to find answers these questions will help you cope and regain that sense of control.

Open Monday to Thursday, 8.30am4.30pm, the Rotorua office of the Cancer Society of New Zealand is located at 1235 Ranolf Street, Rotorua. Phone 07 349 4556 or 0800 CANCER 226 237, email leanneparr@cancersociety. org.nz or visit www.cancernz.org.nz.

Booklets, information sheets and other information resources can also be downloaded directly from this site.

DENTAL P

ractising good dental health is not only important to maintaining a healthy mouth, teeth and gums, it's also central to your overall health and well-being at any stage of life. Oral health shares common risk factors with other chronic diseases and conditions.

The mouth serves as a 'window' to the rest of the body, providing signals of general health disorders.

A high consumption of foods and drinks containing added sugars is a direct cause of dental caries. The oral health message to restrict consumption of foods and drinks containing added sugars to mealtimes complements the healthy heart message to reduce consumption of foods high in oils and fats. Studies also show that eating more fruits and vegetables can have a protective influence against cancers and systemic inflammatory diseases, including periodontal diseases.

Developing a good regime of regular brushing and flossing is also essential.

In New Zealand children get free basic dental care until they are 18, but otherwise dentists aren't part of the free public health system.

Enrolling your child early ensures the best care for them and will help prevent tooth decay. Looking after baby teeth is important as decay in the first teeth will be painful and can affect the child’s eating and development. It may affect their permanent teeth as well.

For information on how to care for children’s teeth visit www.letstalkteeth.co.nz.

Phone 0800 TALK TEETH (0800 825 583) and press 1 to find out more about the School Dental Service.

Dental therapists provide most services and dentists provide more specialised treatment if necessary. Dental assessments and treatments usually take place in community-based clinics, often located on school sites, or in mobile dental units. Some treatments are not free, such as orthodontics.

Children and adults with special medical needs or disabilities which make them unable to access normal dental services, or who require dental treatment as part of other treatment, can receive free hospital dental services. Referrals are usually made by dental therapists, private dentists, or general practitioners.

Most New Zealanders over 18 are treated by private dental practitioners. Private practices offer a wide choice of treatments. Fee structures may vary, however. Dental cover is available through a range of health insurance companies. Work and Income New Zealand may provide financial assistance for urgent dental treatment. Contact your local WINZ office for more information Dental treatment needed due to injury or accident is funded for all people in New Zealand and managed through the Accident Compensation Corporation.

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HEALTH &

REST HOMES N ew Zealand has an ageing population, with an increasing proportion of people in the older age groups. While many older family members live independently, others require a little help to stay independent, and others require more or less constant care. Rotorua has a comprehensive array of services to support elderly people.

Various types of long-term care are provided in rests home or hospital for those requiring residential care.

Certified hospital and rest home services, including short and long term care providers, can be found on the Ministry of Health's website (www.health.govt. nz), on the Rotorua District Council website (www.rdc.govt.nz) and in the yellow pages http://yellow.co.nz/ rotorua-area/rest-convalescent-homes.

The Eldernet website (www.eldernet. co.nz) also has a database directory and information about community groups and organisations, retirement villages and lifestyle villages and living, home help services, respite care and short term options, aged care services, rest

homes, residential care, private hospitals, dementia care, public hospitals and other third age services for seniors.

Age Concern, 1333 Eruera Street, is dedicated to promoting the quality of life and well-being of older people, advocating positive healthy ageing for people of all ages. The non profit organisation responds to a range of queries from older people and their carers, advising on such matters as where to obtain a service and what is available. It also holds events that provide social connection between older people.

Senior day care is ideal for older people who can no longer manage independently, or who are isolated and lonely as it enables them to socialize with others while still receiving needed care services. It's also beneficial to caregivers as it gives them a muchneeded break. Senior day care centres, for both dementia and non dementia seniors, usually operate during daytime hours, Monday to Friday, providing planned activities, meals and special care in a supportive environment.

YOUR FINANCIAL HEALTH T he financial health of your family is about how you manage your money and how you plan for your future. As all of your financial decisions and activities have an effect on your financial health now and in the future it’s important to evaluate your situation, consider what you could be doing to help improve your financial habits and health, and set some goals.

To better understand your personal finances, take the time to do some number crunching. An evaluation your family’s current financial health will help you determine how to reach your short- and long-term financial goals.

A good starting point is to establish what your net worth is by calculating your assets (what do you own) and subtracting your liabilities (what you owe). Tracking your net worth over time allows you to evaluate your progress.

Equally important is developing a personal budget or spending plan. This important financial tool can help you prioritize spending and saving, plan

for expenses and emergencies, and reduce - or eliminate – your expenses.

If there is money left over after you’ve subtracted your expenses from your income, you have surplus which can be spent, saved or invested. Alternatively, if your expenses exceed your income, adjustments may need to be made to your budget. Several non-profit agencies offer budgeting advice. The Citizens Advice Bureau is a good starting point. Information and advice on budgeting and debt management can be found on the Sorted website or through the New Zealand Federation of Family Budgeting Services.

Live within your means. Be mindful of the differences between needs and wants as this should help you make better spending choices. Your needs should get top priority. Enhance your ability to build wealth. Every extra dollar you spend now means less money later and during retirement.

The sooner you start saving, the better off you’ll likely be during your

Parksyde Community Centre in a Tawera Place caters for the social, recreational, health and educational needs of older people in Rotorua and the surrounding district.

Alzheimers Rotorua has trained professional staff able to help with all aspects relating to dementia.

The society provides information on services available in the area, advocacy, education, and carer support groups.

For seniors remaining in their own homes, support services, mobility schemes and mobile meals are available. Organisations like Age Concern and Eldernet can provide information on service providers.

The Needs Assessment Service Coordination (NASC) service undertakes comprehensive health needs assessment and co-ordinates funded and unfunded support services for the Lakes DHB population who have long term, disability-related needs through age and other conditions.

NASC is based at 1141 Pukaki Street, Rotorua or visit www.weka.net.nz.

retirement years. Schemes such as Kiwisaver, a voluntary, work-based savings initiative, are designed to help you with your long-term saving for retirement by making it easy to maintain a regular savings pattern.

Various work-based and private superannuation funds offer similar benefits. Retirement planning calculators are available online.

Financial advisers can also assist.

Consumer NZ provides independent advice about financial issues affecting families, including education funds, wills and funerals. It pays to shop around and do your due diligence.

Get a quote from as many insurers as possible. Consumer NZ’s annual health insurance reports finds differences of hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Ask your employer if health insurance and/or superannuation schemes are available.

The bottom line to achieving better financial health is to build good overall habits.

HEALTH &

13

CHRONIC CONDITIONS

T

hat’s just what you’ll have to do… when you get a diagnosis of a long term illness, you have no choice but live with it! Yet the question is: HOW??!! Will you still be able to live a normal life? Will you have to give up on the things you love to do? Can you continue your job? What compromises do you have to make and how is this condition impacting on those around you, your partner, your children, your friends? How will it impact on your financial situation? How does it make you feel? Those living with a chronic health condition will surely know feelings of devastation, frustration, inadequacy, helplessness and yes, of

course some self pity too! An initial period of grieving has begun; you experience loss of some aspects of your health that are no more or you can no longer take for granted.

How can you overcome the physical and emotional challenges? How can you give the condition a place in your life? How can you work towards accepting this condition and its implications? In order to move forward you may have to embrace some new responsibilities. You may need to spend some time to learn about your condition so that you fully understand it.

Let’s look at epilepsy as an example.

Epilepsy is easier to live with when you (and others around you) understand it.

It takes fear away and people become more comfortable and confident to be around a person who has epilepsy; learn how to recognize various seizure types, what to do in the event of a seizure, about seizure triggers, what safety measures to take etc.

We are privileged in our region to have so many organisations that provide specialised information and support tailored to your specific needs, so you can live life as normal as possible with a chronic condition.

Parkinson Central Plateau Phone 07 343 7986

Stroke Foundation

Phone 07 349 6022

ME/CFS

Phone 0800 632 377

Epilepsy New Zealand

Phone 07 346 3912

Rotorua Diabetes

Phone 07 332 5955

Citizens Advice Bureau

Phone 07 348 3936

Phone 07 346 3912 or 0800 EPILEPSY

Looking well but feeling unwell?

The most common symptoms are:

Email: rotorua.easternbop@epilepsy.org.nz

Epilepsy NZ offers education, information, advocacy and support to people affected by epilepsy.

This may include home visits or education sessions to schools, health & social services, work places etc. free of charge.

Covering Lakes District and Eastern BOP.

Marjo may also be contacted on 027 408 1201

CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME

• Persistent & overwhelming fatigue • Severe muscle or joint pain • Impaired memory & concentration • Disturbed sleep patterns

Free Support Service

ME/CFS Charitable Trust, Rotorua

Telephone: 0800 632 377 (0800 MECFSROTORUA) Mobile: - 027 632 3776 (027 MECFSROTORUA) Email: ann.mecfs.rotorua@gmail.com

Free, confidential information, advice and support provided by trained volunteers. If you know your rights less can go wrong!

Community House, 1115 Haupapa St, Rotorua

(07) 348 3936

0800 367 222 • cab.rotorua@xtra.co.nz

Parkinson’s Central Plateau provides:

Education, Information and Support for all people with Parkinson’s, their caregivers, friends and families.

Community House Level 1 1115 Haupapa Street, Rotorua 3040 PO Box 1466, Rotorua Phone (07) 343 7988 (021) 155 3365 Email: centralplateau@parkinsons.org.nz Lakeland Contact: Vivienne Witt 07 349 6022 or 021 962379

Community Educator : Fiona Leighton 02101553365 educator.centralplateau@parkinsons.org.nz

Office in QE Health, Whakaue St, Rotorua Opening hours WED-FRI 9.30am – 2.00pm Phone 07 349 5256 Enquires to Karen Reed Phone 07 332 5955 or email info@diabetesnzrotorua.org.nz Information and Support for People with Diabetes in Rotorua. Join us for a cuppa and a chat – Morning Tea at QE Health every Thursday morning.

14

HEALTH &

Brought to you by

JULY 2014

We care about your Support and Well Being during your journey with cancer.

We are a voluntary team and Our aim is to extend support by:

Cancer Support Services ces

1. Guidance, Counselling, Emotional Support 2. Understanding treatments and side effects 3. Supporting your family/whanau members 4. Lending a helping hand 5. Providing you with different cancer information

1318 Pukuatua Street Ph 07 349 3118 Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm

KOROWAI AROHA’S Asthma Management WE CAN HELP YOU! • Free clinic or home visits • Free resources • Group sessions for schools and kaumatua (as well as others) • Open to everyone, wherever you are enrolled Korowai Aroha’s Asthma Service is a free community service that provides education, support, information and resources about asthma and other breathing (respiratory) conditions. This service is run from Korowai Aroha’s clinic on Hinemoa Street and is led by Registered Nurse Noelene Rapana.

Korowai Aroha Health Centre 1292 Hinemoa Street, Rotorua

07 348 8454

AROHA MAI CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES T

he Aroha Mai Cancer Support Services is a voluntary team and our aim is to extend support to cancer sufferers and their families. Services offered : Counselling with compassion, guidance when required, assisting/supporting family members, working in a culturally appropriate manner that adheres to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.

Fund raising for resources to provide the assistance and the support has been a vital part of the Aroha Mai campaign, support from volunteers, local communities, funding and sponsorship has been overwhelming and we thank all those who have and continue to support us. A special thanks to First Sovereign Trust, Bay Trust and Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust.

For more information find us on www.arohamai.maori.nz

KOROWAI AROHA T

he colder seasons can be a stressful time for those with asthma. Wet weather can help grow mould whilst the wind can blow the mould & pollen through the air. A cold or flu virus are common triggers for asthma flare up’s in winter and while it is impossible to avoid these triggers there are ways to stay as well as possible.

Stay hydrated with water-Eat more wholesome foods and less processed food - Exercise regularly; wearing a scarf over your nose and mouth can help warm the air before you breathe it in resulting in less irritated breathing tubes. -Relax and enjoy the little things in life. -If you smoke- Quit. Choose life, choose your whanau -Get a good night’s sleep. If you’re not, ask yourself why not? Seek help - Wash your hands. -Ensure you are taking regular asthma medication correctly and get your annual flu vaccinations. Follow your asthma management plan.

Seek medical advice from your Doctor, Nurse or Asthma educator

15

HEALTH &

Brought to you by

JULY 2014

WELLNESS PRACTICE T o achieve maximum wellness we need to take responsibility for what is happening within our body, mind, emotions, behavior and deeper life goals and views.

We are intimately linked to these so by practicing to see, understand and integrate these aspects we can evolve greater harmony with people and the world around us as we develop extraordinary wellness and increased capacities.

The teachers at The Yoga Studio apply focused attention encouraging students to challenge habitual patterns and behaviours. After decades of dedication to some of the deepest physical and contemplative traditions of the world including meditation and yoga the teaching translates into a unique and genuine exploration. Self-practice at home is guaranteed to deepen meaning in everyday life. After mastery of observation and posture work, meditation, relaxation and breath work become the more internal aspects of wellness and growth.

ALZHEIMERS A

lzheimers Rotorua offers a number of support services from early diagnosis through to full time residential care.

This illness is a cruel, insidious disease and has a devastating effect not only on the person but also on a t least 5 to 10 family members, often leading to depression and health problems.

There is still no known cure but research continues. It is NOY just an older person’s illness and they have a number of people in their 50’s and 60’s.

Early diagnosis is of the utmost importance.

See Elaine to talk about the living with memory loss programme which consists of three free educational and informative sessions. These sessions are aimed at giving you a greater understanding of dementia and aqssist you along the journey of what lies ahead.

YOGA

YOGA POSTURES – ENTRY LEVEL CLASSES Monday 5.30pm, Tuesday 5.30pm, Wednesday 5.30pm, Thursday 10.30am and 5.30pm YOGA WITH EXPERIENCE Tuesday 10.30am

FREE classes will be offered before a new beginners course. Please visit our website for more info. Call or email us today to submit your expression of interest.

We provide authentic yoga classes focusing on optimization and integration of the body, mind, and emotions. Our certified Yoga Teachers are committed to providing proven methods and practices to transform your body and mind into great strength, harmony, balance, and longevity. The deeper mental practices of breath work and mindfulness will unfold your personal path to vibrant health and allow you the experience of your essential nature.

CALL NOW Level One, 1158 Pukuatua Street, P O Box 1753

0274393910

yogapaulb@xtra.co.nz | www.yogabop.co.nz

Caring For People With Alzheimer’s And Related Disorders We provide support for all those affected by Dementia.

Our services include several support groups, advocacy, community awareness education programmes including “Living with memory loss” programmes.

Phone 349-0053 Community House 1115 Haupapa St