“Sometimes we find ourselves having conversations almost behind closed doors because people don’t want others to know that their loved one may have dementia.”
She said if families engaged with services sooner, they could offer them more options, provide practical support and help them adapt to the changes dementia brought.
“An earlier diagnosis does not mean that everything suddenly becomes easy, but knowing what you are dealing with gives people and their families the opportunity to understand their options and plan ahead. Knowing your options in advance is something that families often find particularly helpful.”
September is World Alzheimer’s Month, throughout which Alzheimer’s Gisborne Tairāwhiti is encouraging people to help challenge stigma around dementia.
The organisation’s services include education, information and practical support, as well as programmes designed to help people remain engaged and connected.
Pictured from left are volunteer Heather Cochrane, Alzheimer’s Gisborne Tairāwhiti manager Tracy Robinson (manager), Lynn Cotton (seated) and volunteer Therese Fawcett in the Sherwood Club.
This month, clients at the Sherwood Club – the organisation’s day programme for people with mild to moderate dementia – will celebrate World Alzheimer’s Month with a morning tea on September 24.
Attendees will be encouraged to wear purple, the international colour of dementia awareness, and enjoy tea and scones.
While the number of people living with dementia continues to grow, Alzheimer’s Gisborne Tairāwhiti faces a challenge ensuring its services continue.
“Sadly, there is very little government funding available for the work we do,” Robinson said.
“We have to fundraise more than 60% of our income just to keep the doors open and the lights on for our current clients, numbering around 250. It is a difficult situation. The number of people living with dementia is growing, but our ability to provide services is heavily dependent on the generosity and involvement of our community.”
One of the organisation’s fundraisers is Spud in a Bucket, a popular competition that has been running since 2012.
Participants grow potatoes in a bucket until the closing date on December 5, when the potatoes are weighed and counted.
Participants can add any soil, compost or other growing medium.
Entry for adults is $15, children aged 12 and under can enter for $10. Entries are cash only and will be open at Bunnings Gisborne until the end of the month.
Another fundraiser is a Christmas raffle, with a prize of $360 worth of vouchers for several Gisborne retailers.
Tickets are available for $5 from the Alzheimer’s Gisborne Tairāwhiti offices at the hospital site, via Gate 2.
Alzheimer’s Gisborne Tairāwhiti provides education on the early warning signs of dementia.
The next public seminar will be held on November 19 from 10am to 12.30pm. Registration is $20.
For more information, email manager.gisborne@alzheimers.org.nz or phone (06) 876 0752.