Help For People Living With Dementia

It is estimated over 40,000 people in New Zealand have Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia, and that number is likely to double by 2026.   
 
The Nelson branch of the Alzheimer’s Society has 280 people with dementia on their books, and provides support to around 350 carers. The society employs six mainly part-time staff and has 40 volunteers.
 
They have had two large donations this year – an anonymous donation of $15,000, and $10,000 in proceeds from the Antiques to Retro event held at Founders in early March. However, Operations Manager Belinda Roselli says they face a constant battle just to keep their basic costs covered.
 
“The two generous donations have enabled the society to continue providing services at current levels,” Ms Roselli said, “but with no guaranteed financial support from any source, it is struggle to keep our costs covered.”  
 
She says when someone develops Alzheimers it is a very difficult time for families and they need support: “People may be referred to us by their GP or other services and our two Field Workers can then offer home visits and ongoing support by way of education programmes, support groups and dementia day care,” she explains. “Our primary role is to support the carer, which in turn supports to the person with dementia - it can be a frightening time for someone who has received a diagnosis, and it is helpful for them to receive support and practical help in how to manage themselves.”
 
Support includes a listening ear, referral to other services such as home help and dementia day care.  Education is provided and there are courses held throughout the year.   
 
Ms Roselli says the support keeps pace with the progression of the dementia
 
“As behaviour or physical deterioration occurs, we check in with the carer and see if they need different services,” she says. “They might need a Wandatrax device if someone begins to wander, or a bed mat with an alarm for those who regularly get out of bed and may start attending to day time chores, such as cooking
 
And although funding is an issue, people are never turned away and the society wants people to be aware that there is help for the families of people with dementia.
 
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