Alzheimers New Zealand For dementia support call 0800 004 001

These groups are for people with dementia to participate and socialise. A team of highly trained volunteers coordinate the groups. Activities focus on retaining skills at an appropriate level for those attending. The Activity Clubs are held at the same time as four of our Carer Support Groups during the month.

Please contact us to see if these groups are right for you or your loved one.

Be-friender

This services provides ongoing support for people with dementia who live alone, as well as carers or family members. The volunteer will phone or visit a family and ensure that regular contact is maintained.

Companion

This service provides a companion for up to three hours, to be with the person with dementia while the carer takes ‘time out’. The companion will interact with and provide some activities to engage with the person with dementia. They provide a monthly report to Alzheimers Tauranga on the outcome of their work.

This service is provided:

• by a trained volunteer
• in your own home
• for a three hour session each week
• between 8am & 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Companion Group

This is a small group of people with dementia who are supported by volunteers to participate in activities once a week and enjoy a shared lunch. This is held each Monday from 10am-1pm at the Alzheimers Centre, 116, 13th Ave, Tauranga. Entry to this group is by recommendation of the Field Officer

Support Staff

To access Volunteer Services please discuss your options with our team. These services are subject to availability of volunteers. All Companion sessions have a fee of $5 per visit surcharge.

Environment BOP provides a Total Mobility Scheme. This scheme offers 50% discounted taxi fares and is available on assessment of the person with dementia.

Alzheimers Tauranga has registered assessors for Total Mobility Scheme and assessment cost is $20.

These meetings are facilitated by staff and held throughout the region.
Groups provide an opportunity to

• access information and education
• receive information relevant to your present situation and needs
• learn tips and techniques to manage and share ideas with other carers
• meet others in a similar situation and receive mutual support
• enjoy the benefits of mutual sharing
• focus on your own self care

Joining a support group is a positive way of doing something to help your-self.