DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY SUPPORT IN TARANAKI

Alzheimers Taranaki began as a support group in the 1980s, set up by carers who had loved ones with dementia.

“We’ve gradually grown over the years, as the need has grown around us,” said Helen Frank, General Manager. 

“Our mission is to support people living with dementia and create a dementia friendly Taranaki by reducing stigma while increasing understanding in the community.” 

As part of that support, the organisation’s diversional therapists run day respite programmes in New Plymouth and Hāwera, providing stimulating activities and the chance to socialise. 

“We have a mixture of cognitive games and activities, crafts, music and physical activity. Our New Plymouth centre caters for 90+ clients a week and has a garden, so they can spend time in the veggie patch or in the outdoor workshop,” said Helen. 

Toi Foundation funding has helped Alzheimers Taranaki build a fit-for-purpose centre in New Plymouth and provide hot lunches during the day programmes. 

“Before constructing our own building, we relied on hiring church halls and bowling clubs for our day programme and renting little offices in town for our community team, which was very challenging. We had to get the day meals delivered by outside caterers,” said Helen.  

“That still happens twice a week in Hāwera. But thanks to Toi, we now have our own building in New Plymouth and our own cook. That’s been great because we have more control over the menu and it gives our clients a chance to contribute, too. 

“We’ve got a fantastic young cook who really engages with the clients and gets a feel on what they like and dislike. One thing they can always comment on is the food.”