Alzheimer's Support Services
Our goal is to make life better for all people affected by dementia. We are actively looking for volunteers to help. If you have a few hours a week to spare, we would value your support. Click here to read about volunteering for Alzheimer's Support Services.
Support Services
Alzheimers Nelson provides information and guidance to families affected by dementia through a range of services.
Individual Family Support:
A staff member can meet with you to discuss your needs, provide information and help you access appropriate services.
Support Groups:
These can provide families and carers with practical help and relief. These groups provide an opportunity to share problems, concerns and feelings with people who know what you are going through. They can decrease feelings of isolation. There are four monthly groups for carers. For details of venues, please phone our field workers.
Early Memory Loss Group:
These are held in six weekly sessions to provide social contact and support for people in the early stages of memory loss.
Cafe
This is held on the first Wednesday of each month at Toad Hall. A safe and friendly environment for carers, clients and volunteers to socialise. Contact the fieldworker.
Day Care Services
Dementia day care service is available in Motueka at Jack Inglis Friendship Hospital. Contact the fieldworker.
Education and Seminars
- "Living with dementia" is a four week course that provides a comprehensive understanding of the disease, behaviours and carer responsibilities.
- Information material is available at the Alzheimers Nelson office.
- Seminars are presented on specific topics from time to time.
- Speakers are available for presentations to community groups and service organisations. Education sessions are available for service providers and rest homes in the community.
- Education sessions are available for service providers and rest homes in the community.
Volunteer for Us
We have a team of volunteers who provide additional support to families and assist individuals coping with the demands of living with dementia. Contact our office if you would like to become a volunteer. If you have a few hours a week to spare, we would value your support. Training is provided. Click here to read about volunteering for Alzheimer's Support Services.
Support Us
If you would like to join Alzheimer's Nelson in Motueka, give us a call -- phone Rose McDrury, .
Contact details:
Alzheimers Nelson,
Community Groups Centre,
319 Hardy Street, Nelson 7010,
Phone
E-mail:
Motueka contact: Rose McDrury,
Background information
what is dementia and who gets it?
Dementia is a progressive loss of brain function. It occurs as a result of physical changes in the structure of the brain. These changes affect memory, thinking, behaviour and emotion. People of all ages, ethnicities and intellectual ability can get dementia. While it is more common in people over the age of 65, it can also affect younger people. Alzheimer's Disease is the most common form of dementia.
What other symptoms?
We all forget things from time to time, perhaps a little more often as we age, but the loss of memory in Alzheimer's Disease is different. It is not just occasional. There is a gradual decline in intellectual and sometimes physical abilities.
At first a person may become forgetful and have trouble with reading and simple everyday tasks. It often means forgetting to turn off taps or misusing electrical appliances. It may mean being unable to find one's way and getting lost. A person may use the wrong words, or not finish a sentence. There may be difficulty in managing money and dealing with business matters. It may mean forgetting how to dress properly, or how to attend to personal hygiene. And there may be a change in personality.
Is there a cure?
While no cure for Alzheimer's Disease is known, there is much research in progress, investigating its causes and treatment. If you are anxious about your memory, talk to your doctor. Forgetfulness and confusion may be symptoms of a curable disorder. Correct diagnosis is the first step in knowing what to do.
