YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
SEPTEMBER 2016
making the most of life
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Northern Advocate
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Life in retirement’s fast lane
“...you’re never too old to exercise – you’ve just got to choose the right way to do it”
If you’ve always imagined that life in a retirement village is all about slowing down, you may want to think again.
F
or thousands of residents at Ryman Healthcare’s 30 villages in New Zealand and Australia, life is more busy and active than it was before. That pace of life is largely down to the hard work of Nicki Brown, who developed Ryman’s first circuit classes for residents eight years ago. Today more than 2,500 residents follow her Triple A fitness regime each week.
Triple A – which stands for Ageless, Active, Aware – is a key part of Ryman’s Engage activities programme. Nicki has a background in exercise physiology, and has completed a research project on physical activity in older adults. Her conclusion was that residents were more physically active after they moved into a Ryman village than they were before. Residents have also recorded significant improvements in their strength and balance as a result of attending Triple A classes. Nicki’s mantra is that the more active you are – at any age or stage
– the healthier you will be in the years ahead. “Having such a good take up of the programme is significant because there’s a wealth of evidence that shows the more you exercise the healthier and more independent you will be in the long term,’’ Nicki says. “The truth is that you’re never too old to exercise – you’ve just got to choose the right way to do it.’’ Ryman’s Engage programme caters to the intellectual as well as the physical. Other activities include quizzes, music and art classes, resident choir, skiffle bands and men’s club.
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Northern Advocate
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
CONTENTS
13
12
Page 4
Staying Fit
Page 5
The Forget Me Not Adult Day Centre provides quality care
7
Page 6
Our Eye Health matters as we age
Page 7
Techniques for slowing the progression of Dementia
4
6
Page 8-9
Socializing with our Senior Citizens
Page 10 -12
Considering a Retirement Village?
Page 14
14
10
Your Power of Attorney
Page 15
NorthAble; for all your mobility equipment
Page 16
Age Concern; serving the needs of the elderly
Come & join the fun! Start your dream retirement today in Northland’s premier lifestyle village
STAGE 2 OF BRAND NEW TOWNHOUSES SELLING FAST Be the first to secure your future at Northland’s premier lifestyle village with a brand new townhouse. Allow yourself the time to plan ahead while your brand new home is being built. Come and join the fun!
94 Boundary Rd, Tikipunga, Whangarei Ph 09 437 5844 www.fallsestate.co.nz
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Northern Advocate
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
STAYING
FIT
N
ew Zealand’s population is aging – by 2051, the number of people aged 65 years and over will have doubled and 1 in every 4 Kiwis will be over this age! In 2008 more than 540,000 of us were aged 65 and over – around 12.6% of all New Zealanders. Statistics show activity levels decline steadily with age, and by their mid-50s few people take regular exercise.
Regular activity is important
Regular activity is especially important as we age, because it can help improve medical conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It can also help reduce the risk of certain cancers and it’s really beneficial for maintaining mobility and mental wellbeing, and our independence. In fact, while some of the health boosts you’ll receive are the same as those experienced by younger people, there are also things that are of particular benefit as you age: • • • •
more energy improved sleep stable weight improved circulation and lower blood pressure • delayed ageing Research has found our aerobic capacity declines steeply with age but the good news is that regular exercise can not only keep that decline at bay, but reverse it too.
Never too late to start
You don’t have to give up your favourite physical activity just because you’re getting older. And for those who fear they’ve left it all too late, you’re never too old to start enjoying the positive benefits of exercise.
Ideas for exercise
While ageing is a natural part of life, there are some easy steps we can take to help ensure the years treat us kindly. If you’d like some help and support to exercise, talk to your doctor about whether there are any suitable programmes available. There are also activities you can do alone, with little or no expense. • go for a 30 minute walk. If you can’t walk for long, don’t worry, just break it up into 3 sets of 10 minutes and rest when you need to. • Find a friend to join you – it will help keep you both motivated • Walk to the local shops • Take the opportunity to stand up and
4u2 4u2
move around each time the adverts come on TV • Buy a pedometer and try to increase the amount of steps you take each day • Go to tai chi classes for strength and balance • Find time to play with your grandchildren • Exercise to videos designed for your age group • Speak to your doctor about getting a green prescription to help you make some lifestyle changes
Starting out
If you are new to regular physical activity or haven’t done any for a while, take it easy. It’s important you don’t experience any feelings of soreness or fatigue after exercise.
30 minutes a day
The Ministry of Health recommends we do 30 minutes of moderate activity, most days of the week. That recommendation also applies to older adults, assuming you are health and mobile enough. New Zealand guidelines define moderate-intensity activity as anything causing a slight but noticeable increase in breathing and heart rate. Try building up to the recommended activity level over a number of weeks, which might mean starting with a walk of just 5 minutes, but don’t be disheartened – your fitness levels will increase. The important thing to remember is that if you weren’t particularly fit to start with, you don’t need to do a lot of work to achieve a big rise in fitness levels
Gradually increase your fitness
• start off by walking for 20 to 30 minutes, 4 days a week at a comfortable pace • 8 begin alternating 2 to 5 minutes of brisk walking with 2 to 5 minutes of easy walking, gradually increasing the ratio of brisk to easy.
Have a health problem? If health problems have you concerned about whether you should exercise and for how long, talk to your GP or practice nurse.
Did you know? The most popular forms of physical activity for those over 65 are walking (60%) gardening (54.2%) doing exercise at home (9.8%) and playing bowls (9.7%).
tlc4u2 specialises in providing live-in care in tlc4u2 specialises in providing live-in care in own home, enhancing your ownyour home, enhancing your life style your life style and independence. and independence.
T ender L oving T ender L oving C are C are your InIn your ownown homehome -
Respite (short term care) Respite-Care (shortCare term care) - Long Long Term Care Term Care - Recuperative/Rehabilitation Recuperative/Rehabilitation - Palliative (end of life care) Palliative care (end ofcare life care) - ACCaccepted referrals accepted ACC referrals
Forinformation further information contact For further contact P 0800852482 W www.tlc4u2.co.nz P 0800852482 W www.tlc4u2.co.nz
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Northern Advocate
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
FORGET ME-NOT ADULT DAY CENTRE
T
he Centre is a day care service and available to adults of all ages, with an age range from 25-94 years including those who are young with disabilities, the elderly and frail, those with memory loss, Head injuries and/ or other disabilities.
The Centre provides quality day care that enhances the welfare not only of the clients but also of the carers and families who look after their loved ones at home on a 24 hour a day basis. The centre has capacity for 40 client visits per day. Staff is qualified, experienced and caring. The staff- client ratio is purposely set at 1:5 for maximum input. Statistics show that the Centre had 9200 client visits in 2014. This shows the community need for the service.
cooking, budgeting, math’s and current affairs discussions, along with topical speakers. Weekly excursions include ten pin bowling, swimming at the Aquatic Centre, exhibitions and bowls challenges.
The reading / math’s lessons are popular with our younger clients and are structured around learning for life-skills and enjoyment. There is a monthly Tai Chi class especially for Stroke clients.
Quiet Room
The Forget Me Not Centre’s ‘One Stop Shop’ concept has proved to be a great help in connecting our clients to their community needs.
Whanau Room
Our Programme
The programme is structured with a variety of activities that provide motivation, rehabilitation, life skills, Diversional therapy, holistic exercise, socialization and fun. Activities include Tai Chi, indoor bowls, singing, swing dancing, table tennis, gardening, educational card games, painting lessons and quizzes, reading,
The Whanau room is an extension to the existing building and provides ample room for meeting, activities and education sessions, cooking and activity classes
Meals
A cooked lunch is provided daily for clients by our 2 chefs. A ‘take home’ meals service is available for clients who require
an evening meal. We also have fundraiser meals available for only $8 per meal.
Transport
The four Forget Me Not vans collect the clients from their home each morning and return them home each afternoon.
Community Collaboration
The Centre works closely with other agencies including NorthAble, Alzheimer’s Society, Age Concern, Idea Services, NASC Services, LYNKZ Centre, ACC and Rest homes. Hours: Monday to Friday from 8.30- 4pm.
Contact us at: 110 Boundary Road, Tikipunga, WHANGAREI 0112 Telephone: 09 437 1144, Fax: 09 437 1144 E-Mail: forgetme-not@xtra.co.nz Please consider supporting us with a donation or bequest.
SMALL WORKS SPECIALIST CERTIFIED CONTRACTOR Section Clearing, General Cartage, Driveways, Sitework, Drainage.
Proud to Support Forget Me Not Adult Day Care Centre
KELVIN HODGE
Ph 09 4372448 | Mob 0276044634
Specialists in Supermarket Refrigeration Farm Refrigeration Commercial Refrigeration + Air Conditioning
PROUD TO SUPPORT FORGET ME NOT ADULT DAY CARE CENTRE Kensington Refrigeration 89 KAMO ROAD, WHANGAREI | PH 437 3668 Email: office@kensingtonrefrigeration.co.nz
Locally owned since 1988
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Northern Advocate
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
EYE A
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
H EALTH
s we age, we realize health is our best form of wealth. While hips can be replaced and hearing aids can take care of the “what dear?” syndrome, eye replacement is on the future perfect wish list – they just don’t do it yet. A lifetime investment in eye health is probably the most precious wealth we can generate. Watching grandchildren grow, visiting childhood places or simply seeing a sunset are the things that are greatly cherished as we mature. So it’s surprising that a visit to an optometrist is one of the most neglected areas of health in this country. Simply by regularly having eyesight checked, we can take action to ensure we maintain eye health well into the golden years. The thing is, kiwis are notoriously bad at making the call. Research reveals getting our eyes checked is less important than getting a haircut to around eight out of ten New Zealanders! It’s hardly surprising seeing we live in a society obsessed with visual perfection, surrounded by images of beautiful models and anti-ageing products. But often we forget how important this is until we experience serious changes or traumatic loss. Much of it can probably be put down to the slow but steady nature of eye health deterioration. Minor symptoms, such as
blurred vision, often occur slowly and are ‘put up with’ over time. Or if action is taken it’s often with a cheap pair of reading glasses from the pharmacy of department store. Unfortunately delaying action can lead to long-term damage which in some cases may have been prevented or even reversed simply by consulting an optometrist. Generally accepted as part of the aging process, changes to sight and the associated symptoms can sometimes be indications of other health issues. If eye straining, squinting, Headaches or blurred vision are present in your life, perhaps it’s time to act. Many of the conditions that affect the eyes are asymptomatic, meaning you won’t notice their presence until possibly irrevocable damage has occurred. A simple eye check performed by an optometrist can confirm whether or not it’s normal changes occurring. If not, additional testing or referral to another specialist is a very important next step. A comprehensive eye health check can identify other health related issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes. From about the age of 40, we start suffering from presbyopia, or ‘old eye’. The natural ageing process causes the deterioration to the flexibility of the eye
lens and from the age of 50, reading glasses are essential for many.
recommended every two years even if you have no current issues. If you have a family history of high blood pressure, diabetes or glaucoma then regular checks are essential.
Visiting an optometrist regularly can help manage the eye ageing process of your eyes. Eye checks are
YOUR EYESIGHT IS PRECIOUS; LET US HELP YOU PROTECT IT! Your comprehensive eye health test will include; • Vision testing • Free retinal photos• Glaucoma and Cataract screening and exceptional service! If you do require a new frame or lenses, you can buy with confidence, as we offer a
100% satisfaction guarantee.
Call us to book yours now on 09 4389984. Corner of Bank & Cameron Streets. www.visualeyez.co.nz
visual
z
boutique optometrists
Present this ad or mention the Advocate ‘deal’ and receive a HALF PRICE eye test and $50 OFF any spectacle lens purchase
(Excludes contact lenses and optical accessories, conditions apply, usual eye test = $89. Offer ends October 27th 2016)
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Northern Advocate
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YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
TECHNIQUES FOR SLOWING DEMENTIA’S PROGRESSION By Alzheimers Northland
With summer on the way, a tough time for many older people especially those with dementia, we thought it would be a great time to share some ways you and your loved ones with dementia can spend time together enjoying each other’s company. This time together hassyour family is already living with dementia, we live in an ageing population.
Educating ourselves – as well as putting some new habits into practice – around the different ways to slow down dementia, is something we should all put effort into. Luckily, it doesn’t have to mean drastic changes to your daily schedule. Techniques for slowing the progression of dementia are largely social, and can be fun for the whole family.
GET SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL For instance, the simple act of interacting with other people is hugely important for those with dementia1, as emotional bonds are vital for mental and emotional health – no matter which stage of life you’re in. Furthermore, different social activities can be more valuable than others.
Studies have shown that physical exercise can slow the progression of dementia– there’s a reason for the saying “healthy body, healthy mind”.
Improving and maintaining physical and mental health, through exercise and challenging the mind, can help tremendously in slowing the progression of dementia.
Try regularly going for walks, especially as a group – whether it is a visit to the botanical gardens or simply a stroll around the neighbourhood.
Keeping healthy is often a trifecta of physical and mental exercises, as well as maintaining low stress levels. Games
Maintaining moderate activity levels can often reduce cognitive decline and doing it as a group can be beneficial to everyone.
GET THINKING
Consider spending time learning a new language together, or completing a large puzzle as a group. These familiar, yet new and exciting, mental challenges are valuable to everyone, no matter their age or situation. If done as a group, it’s another opportunity to maintain social connections. By educating each other on different techniques to slow the progression of dementia, you are not only participating in raising awareness, but also working towards improving and maintaining the mental, physical, and emotional health of yourself and those around you. If you or your loved one does receive a diagnosis of dementia, or you’d simply like
148 Corks Road, Tikipunga, Whangarei (09) 4387771
Cnr Maraenui Drive & Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri Phone (09) 4073010
such as cards and board games are a good way to challenge the brain and have a few laughs!
Community House 12 Puckey Road, Kaitaia Phone (09) 4081123
to learn more about Alzheimer’s, there is plenty of support available. In the Northland region alone, more than 2,000 people are living with dementia. Alzheimers Northland is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing dementia support services and inspiring those living with dementia to make the most of life. We believe that with the right support programmes, improved environments, and connection to community, people affected by dementia can continue to make the most of each moment. All of our information and support is free and available throughout Northland for more information on dementia contact your local office
Or Toll Free 0800 004 001
Alzheimers Northland Dementia - How will you know?
Dementia occurs as a result of physical changes in the brain which affects memory, thinking, behaviour and emotion. Its most common form is Alzheimers disease. If you notice someone close to you has: • Changes in Memory • Difficulty with familiar tasks • Changes in concentration • Changes in Motivation
They may have the onset of dementia. Encourage them to see their GP who can refer them to Alzheimers Whangarei for assistance with: • Information and education • Support Groups • Individual and family support • Companion services
For further information contact Alzheimers Northland. Phone: 09 438 7771 Email: northland@alzheimers.org.nz
Making life better for all people affected by dementia | kia piki to ora mo nga¯ tanga¯ta mate po¯rewarewa
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Northern Advocate
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Far North Kaitaia RSA Inc
TAKEAWAYS & BAR SNACK MENU AVAILABLE THURSDAY & FRIDAY NIGHTS FROM 5PM Bowl of Chips
$3.00
8 Pork Wonton’s with Plum
NEVER LOOK DOWN ON ANYBODY UNLESS YOU’RE HELPING THEM UP
or Chilli Sauce
$5.00
Lou’s Fish Bites and Chips
$5.00
6 Prawn Twisters
$6.00
Bacon & Egg OR Bacon & Tomato Toasted Sandwich
$7.00
Wedges with Sour Cream, Bacon, Cheese
• Dining Room and Old Hall available for functions. • Menus and finger food available for functions. • Modern bar facilities.
12 Matthews Avenue, Kaitaia Phone (09) 408 0423
Whangarei RSA
& Sweet Chilli Sauce.
$8.00
BAR FOOD PIES, CURRY MEALS, MACARONI CHEESE & LASAGNE
Breads, Bar Snacks, Starters Garlic Bread $5.50 Cheesy Garlic Bread $7.00 Fries $4.50 Medium • $7.00 Large Wedges $8.50 Medium • $14.00 Large Chicken Nibbles $12.00 Salt and Pepper Squid $13.50 Seafood Chowder $15.00 Shrimp Cocktail $10.00
Classics Menu Fresh Fish & Chips Sirloin Steak Seafood Basket Surf n Turf
$20.00 $22.00 $25.00 $28.00
Beef Burger Chook Burger Fish Burger Lamb Burger
$15.00 $15.00 $15.50 $15.50
Gourmet Burgers
UP COMING EVENTS Annette and Kim country artists The Outlaws The annual Steampunk Ball #8 wire Fleetwood Mac tribute show
Friday 23rd Sept from 7pm Friday 30th Sept from 7pm Saturday 1st Oct starts at 8pm Friday 21st Oct from 7pm Saturday 29th October
Bistro Hours 12pm - 2pm Wednesday - Friday. 5pm - 8pm Wednesday – Saturday 7 – 9 Rust Avenue,Whangarei | Phone: 09-438 3792
For the Smaller Appetite Fish & Chips Crumbed Scallops Steak Burger Chicken Nuggets Hotdogs Toasted Sandwich
$15.00 $15.00 $16.00 $10.50 $9.00 $9.00 2 fillings $6.00 3 fillings $8.00
Desserts – Please see our Special’s Board
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Northern Advocate
Forget Me Not Adult Day Care Centre FROZEN MEALS At Forget Me Not we have identified a need for supply of meals that are easily heated at home, at an affordable cost. These delicious meals are not restricted to clients only,but are available for any of the elderly and disabled people in our local community who can no longer cook roast meals themselves at home. Meals and can be collected from the Centre MonFri - 8.30am-4pm or we will deliver if we can for someone who is immobile etc. Please just phone us to order meals or you can visit us to see what meals we have available between the hours of 8.30am- 3.30pm weekdays.
UP COMING EVENTS Tai Chi Kamo Club Pool Swing Dance Bowls Crafts Quiz Tai Chi Quiz Bowls Music
3rd October 3rd October 4th October 4th October 5th October 5th October 6th October 6th October 7th October 7th October
110 Boundary Rd, Tikipunga, Whangarei We are open from 8.30am - 4.00pm Monday - Friday
KAMO CLUB INC
The Menu does vary but includes a broad range as below: • Macaroni Cheese • Pasta and Meat Balls • Lasagne • Lambs Fry bacon and vegetables • Sausage and Gravy • Curry Sausages • Irish Stew • Steak and Kidney Stew • Roast Lamb with roast vegetables • Roast Pork with roast vegetables • Roast Beef with roast vegetables • Cottage Pie • Butter Chicken • Roast Chicken • Chicken and Gravy with vegetables • Chicken Tikka (Mild) with rice and vegetables • Devilled Sausages with rice and vegetables • Smoked fish pie with mashed potato top • Mariner seafood creamy pasta • Vegetable Curry and rice
Menu Bread with 3 dips :- Warm bread with chefs choice of 3 Dips Avocado & Shrimp Timbale:- Served with mini salad Coriander & Lime Scallops:- Scallops tossed in coriander lime butter served with salad greens Chicken Skewers:- Marinated, grilled and served on rice with mini salad
Chicken Caesar Salad:- Baby cos lettuce, chicken, bacon, croutons, egg & Caesar dressing Chicken Breast:- Chef’s Choice on how it is prepared
UP COMING EVENTS Friday September 30th Saturday October 1st Friday October 14th Saturday October 15th Friday October 21st Saturday October 29th
The Sound Quiz Night Shane and the Shazam Band The Emerald Brothers Marian Burns & Helen Riley then James Ray and the Geronimo Band Inertia Beer Festival with the Lion Red Barvarian Band
Open Friday for lunch Wednesday to Sunday for Dinner Ph 09
435 1765
• Meldrum St, Kamo
Sirloin Steak:- Grilled to your liking served on potato, Portobello mushroom topped with Mushroom sauce served with salad Fish of the Day:- Pan-seared and served with chefs choice of sauce or salsa, salad & vegetables Pan Seared Salmon:- Served on vegetable salad with Vietnamese dressing – vegetables and salad available Lamb Rump:- Grilled, served on beetroot (oven baked) drizzled with mint sauce Pasta of the Day:- Please ask your wait staff todays special Hawaiian Steak:- Grilled ham steak, 2 pineapple rings on fries
Brulee:- Served with cream and ice cream Key Lime Pie:- with Ice cream Ice Cream Sundaes:- Chocolate, Strawberry or Caramel Mixed Plate Desserts:- Chefs choice
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Northern Advocate
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
CONSIDERING A RETIREMENT VILLAGE? What you need to know.
Retirement living. The words can strike fear into the hearts of senior citizens as they consider their living options for the future. There is so much to consider, with most retirement villages offering a variety of options. Once you’ve made your decision on where you want to live, you need to visit your lawyer to ensure you understand the terms of the agreement and then your accountant who will make sure you can afford it. It has always been considered retirement village living is an option only available for people who have property they can sell to fund it. This is the norm, but is not always the case. Some villages have units that can be rented, as you would normally rent a flat or unit. Renting residents will most probably be able to share the village benefits like others. If you are not going to be renting, you must ensure your finances work in your favour.
Retirement village operators are required by law to spell out exactly what happens when a resident moves in. While it may all sound a bit confusing and daunting, your solicitor is there and is required to make sure you understand exactly what you are signing. There are two common models and the main model is called licence to occupy. You buy the right to occupy a home but you do not own it. You may pay $200,000 for that right as well as a weekly fee. The village takes a fee, often five percent for each year you have been there, up to a maximum of 25 to 30 percent of the purchase price. That extra fee is called a facility fee or deferred management fee. It is to cover additions and upgrades to village facilities. It can also cover renovation of the unit. It’s a lucrative industry as the operator then sells the next person moving in a right to occupy.
Another variation is for the operator to share the capital gain, but this is not as common. The other model is called unit title. You can buy the building but you don’t own the land. Maintenance of your building and land will be your responsibility and you still pay a weekly fee. You can sell the home but a fee or percentage of the selling price will usually be charged. The advantage of a unit title is a bit more control. The disadvantage is that they tend to be more expensive that licences to occupy.
WHAT DO YOU WANT :
Your personal needs
Sit down and consider what you want and need when it comes time to start looking at retirement villages • Consider how close the village is to the nearest shopping centre – is transport provided or is there public transport close by
• Does the unit or villa feel big enough and is it private for you? • What about pets? • Is there a residents committee? • Are the other residents of a similar age to you? • Can your visiting friends and relations use the facilities? • What happens if your health or mobility declines – can you continue living there?
What to look for in rest home care You should always look into and be comfortable with the rest-care facility part of the village, just in case. Ask yourself … • Do you feel safe and comfortable with the staff? • How many qualified nurses are on duty at a time? • What level of professional nursing care will you need? • Will you have an en suite? • How regularly do doctors visit and are they on site or on call?
PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY SERVICES IN NORTHLAND
HOME AWAY FROM HOME CARE • COMFORT • COMPANIONSHIP
CARE, COMFORT, COMPANIONSHIP Quality care for the elderly Puriri Court Rest Home and Hospital specialises in providing professional, personal care and family support for the older person or those who require recuperation or just a break.
Modern, friendly aged care facilities An integral part of Puriri Court Rest Home’s high standard of care is to create a stimulating, open and friendly environment that attracts and encourages genuine interaction and caring from all who work here. The experienced and qualified medical team at Puriri Court contribute a comprehensive skill base in the specialist needs of the elderly residents PURIRI COURT HOSPITAL FOR THE ELDERLY
45-47 Kamo Road, Whangarei
PHONE: 09 437 3311
Manager Maryanne Thompson, RN Licensed by the Health Department Email: maryanne@parahaki.co.nz
in their care. We also offer full palliative care as part of our role as a hospital for the elderly. Active aged care encouraged Residents are encouraged to take part in a wide range of informal and organised group activities. The daily atmosphere and routines are designed to stimulate conversation and forge friendships. From in-house activities and health programmes to organised excursions and events on our modern 20-seater bus, there is always something happening and fun on at Puriri Court Rest Home and Hospital. Enquiries and Inspections welcome. 437 9302 Fax: 09 437 6487 wendy@puriricourt.co.nz www.pcrh.co.nz Visit us on Facebook
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Northern Advocate
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
CHALLENGE
KEY TO AN ACTIVE MIND
G
one are the days when getting older meant having less to do.
Many retirement villages offer a plethora of leisure and recreation activities for older people and most villages offer outings and excursions and regular social functions. From mini golf to language, dance and fitness classes to games, concerts and interest groups from current affairs and crafts to film and scrabble – there’s something for everyone. Some villages even provide shops, libraries, workshops, hot pools and vegetable gardens to keep their residents entertained.
activities are highly recommended for mental stimulation, improving cognition and delaying the onset of dementia. Cognitive skills allow people to process the information they receive from their senses, helping them think, talk, learn, read and remember. Experts say puzzles or anything that requires problem solving are best for maintaining and improving cognitive skills. Examples are dominoes, chess, card games, Scrabble, bingo, puzzles, crosswords and Sudoku.
The medical experts agree that a range of activities help keep us stimulated.
Hobbies that encourage hand – eye coordination and motor skills are also good for older people, including drawing, painting, knitting, playing music, scrapbooking, woodworking and photography.
Indoor and outdoor bowls, Tai Chi, yoga – all these activities have been shown to be effective in improving balance and improve coordination, especially helpful in the prevention of falls. Also, language classes, games such as bridge and occupational therapy
But one of the most important activities for the elderly is interacting and talking with other people. The opportunity to give opinions and talk about things that are important stimulate the mind and result in older people feeling more confident.
COMMITTED TO CARING FOR OUR RESIDENTS.
Rest Home, Dementia & Hospital Care Accredited 3 years certification by MOH
Your loved ones deserve the best care in their elder years, no matter what their needs. Visit us soon to view our warm, comfortable & homelike facilities, talk to our residents & discover how stress free & easy life can be living among friends at Norfolk Court. Like us on Facebook “Norfolk Court”
NORFOLK COURT REST HOME LTD Member of The New Zealand Age Care Association 68-72 Normanby Street, Dargaville Phone 09 439 6214 norfolkcourt@xtra.co.nz Ask for Carla - RN/Manager or Wendy - Administration
RADIUS RIMU PARK 09 437 3933 297 KAMO RD, WHANGAREI
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Northern Advocate
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
RETIREMENT VILLAGES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
BY RETIREMENT COMMISSIONER DIANE MAXWELL
H
ome is where the heart is.
It has your memories, maybe the trees you planted, familiarity and the neighbours you know.
But, at some point in life you may look up and decide it is too big for what you need now, it takes too much work, and you start looking at where to next. Where could be your next home? One of the downsizing choices is a retirement village. Village residents tell me they started thinking about a village around two years before they actually moved in. And then usually it was an event that made the final decision for them; a fall, an illness, a security scare. The second thing they tell me is that there is a lot to take in, and a lot of paperwork. They’re not kidding.
There’s your ORA, which is your occupation rights agreement, then the code of practice and code of residents’ rights and the disclosure statement. You’ll be required to get independent legal advice to help you with all of that before you can become a resident. We’re working with the industry on some simplification of those documents but in the meantime let’s list what you need to be thinking about.
ORAs and DMFs
First of all, when you buy into a village you typically buy an ORA (occupation rights agreement) which means the right to live there. You’re not buying the land or the building and you won’t get capital gains. There are other models out there but that’s the most common.
After a period of time, usually between two to five years, you will pay a deferred management fee or a DMF. This is typically 20-30 per cent of your original capital. I talk to residents who are happy in the village they’re in and see the DMF as the price for being where they want to be.
I talk to others who have had a problem because they decided they wanted to move. After you’ve paid the DMF the amount left may not be enough to buy into another village or get back into the property market. Information retrieved from www.superseniors.msd.govt.nz
g Lovin Quality Where
And
Care is Assured
REST HOME & HOSPITAL You’ll love it here! • !2)3- 0-314 &2)3(77*4 &2)3- (,8/
If you’re looking for a home away from home for yourself or someone you love, come and visit Cairnfield House
• .70"-"+):$ 3&"8& '"-% 7,2 0,5572-/
Specialists in excellent quality of care, providing a comfortable and cozy place for our residents to feel at home.
• 6)' 9)3:38* 7'8)* 38* 75)23-)*/
Since Cairnfield House is a rest home as well as a hospital, clients can be assured continuity of care with the transition from rest home to hospital happening with ease on the same premises. regular visits from a wide range of specialists such as audiologists, physiotherapists and counselors provide additional assistance and support to our residents.
Ph: 09 438 2668 174 Bank Street Whangarei 0110
QUALIFIED
NURSING STAFF ARE ON HAND
24/7
52 - 60 Jack Street Whangarei | Phone: 09 437 0186 lhauraki@cairnfield.co.nz | www.cairnfieldhouse.co.nz
Leaders in Aged Care
Call
0800 737 2273
or visit www.radiuscare.net.nz
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Northern Advocate
13
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
GIVE
IT A TRY
R
emember when your parents tried to get you to try a range of hobbies to see which one you enjoyed?
That was back when you had time for hobbies. Adulthood quite often takes away that spare time with work and family commitments but retirement very often gives back that time… and for some going from full time work to nothing can be quite a shock!
Hobbies are everywhere. Sports clubs, hobby groups, craft classes and other recreational groups are always calling out for new members. What do you enjoy? The choice is yours and joining a club can be a great way to make more friends and increase your social circle. You could indulge in your love of dancing, music, art, automobiles, the environment, astronomy, marching… the list is endless. Try something brand new.
Or your local church could provide a wide range of activities or groups you could become involved in. Charity organisations and community groups are always crying out for help so you could find a cause that is dear to you and really do some good work in the community. A good idea is to combine your new hobby with fitness – as maintaining fitness is vital as we age. You’ll enjoy yourself, meet new like-minded people and keep fit all at the same time. Joining clubs is not for everybody, so you could indulge in a new hobby or fitness by yourself. Keeping busy and having something to look forward to has huge mental health benefits for everyone. You are more likely to suffer from depression if you are bored and have little social interaction.
RIVERVIEW
REST HOME AND VILLAGE
The Riverview Resthome and Village has been established over the last twenty years ago by the Maungaturoto Community Charitable Trust Inc (MCCT) to serve the Maungaturoto District.
Originally set up as the sixteen-bed Maungaturoto Rest Home, the complex has evolved alongside a residential area adjacent to the rest home which offers thirteen rental units. Fourteen ‘own your own’ units have been added over time. A medical centre, operated by Coast to Coast Health, provides convenient onsite care for all residents.
Welcome to Riverview The Maungaturoto Rest home and Village has been established over the last twenty years by the Maungaturoto Community Charitable Trust Inc (MCCT) to serve the Maungaturoto District. Originally set up as the sixteen-bed Maungaturoto Rest home, the complex has grown to include the 13 rental units and 14 OYO units.
Changing needs As our local population continues to age and live longer, our needs also become more complex. Our current facility is now at capacity and we risk being unable to meet future demands or provide for those who need a higher level of care which at present is only available in Dargaville, Waipu or Whangarel. The value of this higher level of care “at home” has been appreciated by the families in some recent cases where the Rest home has been able to offer this high care to a limited degree.
Future development
Maungaturoto Resthome | 136 Hurndal Street Maungaturoto, Kaipara | PH: 09 431 8696
We have developed a “Plan for the future” – staged development to deliver increased services to the community. Stage one will see an 8 bed Dementia
unit added to the current rest home. Further stages will give the Trust the ability to respond to the increasing complexity of aged care - updated kitchen and dining /lounges – a further 8 dementia beds – a further 6 Rest home rooms and the ability to provide hospital level care as the need dictates. Currently the rise in the number of people needing residential dementia care outstrips population growth. Demand for dementia services are predicted to grow by 7% per year as the risk of suffering from dementia increases after 65yrs. At present the nearest dementia units are at Waipu, Whangarel or Dargaville, so the development of a secure and stable dementia unit in Maungaturoto will allow local families to stay together for longer. The Trust is currently working on obtaining the necessary consents and bank lending support, to compliment the “future plan” as substantial ongoing funding stream will be required from the community. It is intended to launch the appeal to community in the very near future which includes the rebranding of our Rest home to- RIVERVIEW Maungaturoto’s Resthome and Village.
14
Northern Advocate
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
ENDURING
POWER OF ATTORNEY
D
o you feel confident that others will know how to look after you and your property if you become unable to do so yourself, such as through accident, illness or incapacity? There may come a time when you become unable to make or communicate decisions yourself. It is crucial that someone you trust knows how you would want your life and property handled. One way to ensure this happens is to appoint someone to act on your behalf by giving them “enduring power of attorney”. Consider setting up an EPA along with your Will when planning ahead. There are two kinds of EPA: one that covers a person’s property and one that covers their personal care and welfare.
EPA for property
You can choose whether you want a power of attorney for property to take effect now, or when you can no longer manage your affairs. You can give the attorney full power over all your property, or limit power to, for example, looking after specific investments or property. An EPA for property can apply to as many or as few assets as you, the donor, wish. If it is to be limited, that must be specified. You may appoint one or more persons or a trustee company, for example Public Trust, as your property attorney.
EPA for personal care & welfare This EPA will only come into effect if you become incapable of making or communicating your decisions.
An EPA for personal care and welfare can only be given to one individual and not to a trustee company. The EPA can authorise the attorney to act in relation to your personal care and welfare generally, or only in relation to stated specific areas. Your attorney must act in your best interests at all times, and must not abuse the trust you’ve placed in them. They should not act dishonestly, invest your money recklessly, or
do anything they don’t have authority to do under the EPA. Attorneys can generally only benefit themselves if the EPA specifically says they can.
or suffering from any legal incapacity. You could require your attorney to consult with family members and your GP about matters concerning your personal care and welfare.
Your attorney must also involve you in decision-making as much as possible: they must consult with you when making decisions, and must try to get you to develop and exercise whatever capacity you have to make decisions for yourself.
Though you don’t have to, it’s a good idea to consider appointing one person as attorney for your personal care and welfare and a different person or persons for your property. The skills needed to look after personal care and wellbeing are often quite different from those needed to look after someone’s financial affairs.
Your attorney’s specific responsibilities will depend on the type of EPA and the instructions you’ve included in it. If you want their authority to be limited to certain areas you should say exactly what these areas are. You can require your attorney to consult with people named in your EPA, or to give certain kinds of information to people named in the EPA. You can also include other restrictions - for example, you might even specify certain people who you don’t want to look after you. If your attorney isn’t carrying out their responsibilities properly, you or another interested person can ask the Family Court to intervene. Who should I appoint as an attorney? It is crucial that you trust the person and are confident that he or she will act in your best interests. At some stage you may be absolutely reliant on that person. If your attorney for personal care and welfare stands to benefit from your estate, they may have to make decisions that have financial implications for them personally. It is important to be aware of this when you choose your attorney. You may choose to appoint your spouse or one or more of your children, or any other family member. You may also choose a friend or a professional adviser. Note: a professional adviser is entitled to charge a fee for acting as your attorney. By law, your attorney must be at least 20 years of age and must not be bankrupt
The person you appoint as your attorney for personal care and welfare will have to work closely with your property attorney so you will need to feel confident that those you appoint can work together. Who decides whether or not I am mentally capable? You’ve become mentally incapable if: • In relation to property, you are no longer completely competent to manage your own property affairs • In relation to personal care and welfare, you can no longer make or understand decisions, or foresee their consequences; or you can no longer communicate them to other people. You should be aware that under law every person is presumed to be mentally competent until the contrary is shown. It is not your attorney who decides when you are no longer mentally capable. The question of whether you’re still mentally capable must be decided by a health practitioner who is qualified to carry out this assessment. Without a certificate from a health practitioner, your attorney can’t make any significant decisions for you under an EPA for personal care and welfare. If you specify in your EPA for property that it only takes effect upon your becoming mentally incapable, then a certificate from a health practitioner is required before your property attorney can make any decisions for you.
Safeguarding your Future Enduring Powers of Attorney (“EPAs”) allow you to decide who looks after your property and welfare if you lose the ability to do it yourself. Our firm offers Will and EPA package deals at competitive prices. Contact our wills and EPA specialist Cass Hayward today for a friendly chat.
How do I go about setting up an enduring power of attorney?
When you make your EPA, you can specify the particular type of health practitioner you want to make the assessment of your mental capacity. For example, you might want to specify a GP or a geriatrician - a doctor specialising in the care of older people. Availability of specialist doctors may vary your GP or local Age Concern may be able to advise you. Whoever does the assessment, it must be a health practitioner whose scope of practice includes assessing people’s mental capacity. If necessary, the Family Court can be asked to decide whether someone is mentally incapable, after looking at all the evidence. To set up an EPA you will need legal advice; this could be from a lawyer, a legal executive or an authorised officer of a trustee company such as the Public Trust. When you make an EPA you must use the standard forms that are included in the Protection and Property Rights regulations. Legal advisers will have these forms. They are also available on the Office for Senior Citizens website: osc.govt.nz Your legal adviser will explain what information should be included and the decisions you must make. Your legal adviser will also explain the optional provisions you can choose to include, such as • Requiring your attorney to consult with people you name in the EPA requiring your attorney to provide information to people you name in the EPA • Appointing a successor (replacement) attorney if your attorney becomes unable to act. Note: that your attorney can also ask for direction from the Family Court. sourced from www, ageconcern.org.nz
Contact us for further details 7 Maunu Road, Whangarei
P (09) 437 3070 F (09) 437 2070 Email: info@malawyers.co.nz www.malawyers.co.nz
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Northern Advocate
15
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
N
orthAble Equipment Plus –known as EQ+ is Northland’s largest supplier of Rehab, Aged Care and Disability aids and mobility equipment, stocking an extensive range of products available for sale and short or long term hire. If we do not stock an item that you are looking for, we will do our best to source it for you. We pride ourselves on our friendly service and expertise knowledge and are only too happy to assist. You can shop online in the comfort of your own home, visit our retail shop in Whangarei or one of our
Equipment agency outlets in Dargaville and Kaitaia. We also have our mobile van service which travels around Northland on a monthly basis and provides free equipment presentations to community groups.
We are stockists of:
■ Lift chairs ■ Adjustable beds ■ Walkers • Crutches Walking Sticks • Wheelchairs ■ Bathroom & Toilet Equipment ■ Daily living Aids ■ Incontinence
2016 Home and Leisure Show Special: Northland Autos Home & Leisure show, Friday 30th Sept, Sat 1st and Sunday 2nd October – we will once again have our equipment on display at stands 134 & 135. As a home show special, from now until October 7th, 2016, you can purchase a Pride Walker for $185.00, that is a savings of $35.00 – available while stocks last.
HIRE EQUIPMENT We have an extensive range of equipment available for short and long term hire MOBILE VAN SERVICE Regular monthly van visits throughout Northland Demonstrations in your Home Community Group Presentations and Promotions Delivery Service (fees apply) Phone: 027 453 8797
We stock a large range of scooters including Pride, Invacare Neo and AMW. We are happy to provide a free, no obligation scooter demo at your home – call us now to arrange your demo and get out and about enjoying the sunshine this summer.
NORTHLAND SUPPLIERS OF REHAB, AGED CARE, DISABILITY MOBILITY EQUIPMENT AND DAILY LIVING AIDS
• ADJUSTABLE BEDS • LIFT CHAIRS • SCOOTERS • WALKERS/WHEELCHAIRS/ CRUTCHES/BATHROOM/ TOILET EQUIPMENT • KITCHEN AIDS • DAILY LIVING AIDS • CONTINENCE
We also stock a range of scooter accessories including flags, baskets, bags, weather proof ponchos, walking stick holders, batteries, chargers, sunshades and much more.
NORTHLAND EQ+ AGENCIES Dargaville Agency Greenways Trust 16 Edward St Dargaville 09 439 8133 Kaitaia Agency Far North Pharmacy 53 Commerce Street Kaitaia 09 408 0851 SEE US AT THIS YEAR’S NORTHLAND
Address: Phone: Website: Hours:
73 John Street (corner John & Dent Streets), Whangarei 09 430 3469 • Email: equipment@northable.org.nz www.equipmentplus.org.nz Monday-Friday 8.30am-5pm Saturdays 9am-12pm (closed for long weekends/public holidays)
AUTOS UR & L E IS
E
SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 2
16
Northern Advocate
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE
AGE CONCERN SERVING THE NEEDS OF OLDER PEOPLE Loneliness and social Isolation
Are you feeling lonely, we are here to help! We provide an Accredited Visiting Service that can help to ease social isolation.
Elder Abuse and Neglect
Age Concern believes older people should always be respected and never abused. Find out how to get help if you are not being treated with dignity and respect.
Wellbeing
Read up on our ‘Recipes for Life’ which provide practical and useful advice for happiness in all areas of life.
Housing and Care
Get advice on whether or not to move, tips for making your home more agefriendly and find out the answers to common questions regarding residential care.
Money Matters
Find out more about NZ Super, what to consider before becoming a guarantor and why you need an Enduring Power of Attorney.
Policy and Research
Read the latest research from Age Concern and other organisations into issues affecting older people as well as our latest submissions to government.
P
romoting the rights and wellbeing of older people and those who care for them.
How do we do this? We provide a number of services; most are at no cost to the client. The following gives an overview of what we provide to enable people to age in a place of their choice. Our focus is to enable people to remain safely in their own homes.
Monthly Legal Clinic:
We hold free 3/4 hour appointments with Lawyer Katarina Hatzidakis. These have proved very popular. Phone us to make an appointment. Dedicated Carer Relief Service Are you looking after someone 24/7? This service focuses upon providing stress & social relief for the full time carer so they may utilise their free time to do whatever they wish. Our staff are professionally trained & are able to care for the client well, thus ensuring the carer really has a stress free break for a few hoursa week. Carer Support hours can be allocated for provision of this service or carers can pay privately. Home Safety Maintenance- A wide range of minor repairs and replacements and advice – no job too small. We install hand rails, replace light bulbs, change fuses, etc…..anything that is necessary to improve or maintain safety for the client in their home. Materials are at cost for people in their own homes and a call out fee is requested. We have skilled professionals to refer the client to if our Home Safety Maintenance officer is unable to do a particular request. Anyone can refer to this service.
we have included social topics e.g. travel experiences. A certificate of attendance is provided for those needing proof of their professional development. Field Work- Our field officer provides Information, Advice Advocacy and Support by appointment in office or person’s own home. Frequently home visiting will uncover other issues which can be improved by assisting the client to the correct service provider. If the client is unhappy about something they would like help with, our Advocacy service will provide support and assistance. We can also escort a client to their appointments to “act as a second pair of ears” & perhaps take notes for the client. Anyone can refer to this free service. Total Mobility- Our Field Officer also is an Assessor of eligibility for reduced taxi fares for people with disabilities or health problems for whom mobility is a problem. This can be due to many factors such as sight, pain, immobility, requirement for use of aids etc. A visit to the office or a home visit is done and the client is assessed & enabled to use the service. You can be assessed for short term – if a temporary problem- or long term. Anyone can refer to this service.
Accredited Visitors Service- Loneliness can be a major problem with the Older Person and we visit to assess the client in order to provide a suitable accredited visitor who will visit, usually weekly, for an hour or so for a chat and cup of tea. Anyone can refer to this service.
Resources
Our members receive local newsletters and an annual calendar of events. We have 3 wheelchairs available for hire by day ($5), week ($25) or weekend ($10) and a lending library. We have an information stand board in Age Concern House which has a selection of pamphlets detailing services and information the Whangarei area. We are an NGO and need to raise all our own funding. We welcome membership to from individuals, Agencies & businesses, donations and bequests.
Our information Centre is open 9am – 3.45pm Monday to Friday at 16 Manse Street, Regent Phone: 438 8043 email: info@ageconcernwhg.org.nz
Health Promotion / Education- We hold seminars and programmes usually once or twice a month focusing on positive ageing, managing own health and well being, e.g. falls prevention. We have an annual calendar with a wide range of topics - e.g. Specific medical conditions, management of living at an older age, legal issues; the focus is to keep people informed & to let them know what is available. This year
Whangarei
11 James Street, Whangarei
09 438 1332
Asset Realty Ltd Licensed REAA AA2008 A
s u p y p l o d r n u t i o n r g r A P ge Conce
LJ Hooker are proud to off ffer f a 10% discount on our service fee to all Super Gold card holders.
Please tell your agent that you are a SuperGold card holder prior to listing your property to receive your discount upon settlement.