Social Work Support

Our Social Work service is an integral part of the support offered by Alzheimers Canterbury to people diagnosed with dementia and their families/whānau.

The social work team can assist people with:

• understanding dementia
• coming to terms with a diagnosis
• adapting to changes within relationships
• grief and loss related to change
• future planning
• reducing stress and social isolation
• managing behavioural changes
• legal and financial issues
• abuse/neglect

One of our social workers can arrange to meet you and/or your family/whānau at your home or at the Alzheimers Canterbury office to discuss your situation, including any concerns and needs you may have.  Social work support enables you to access information, educational courses and materials and services from Alzheimers Canterbury and the wider community. Based on your choices and unique situation, a social worker will advocate on your behalf when necessary and will assist you in coping with change, in order to achieve the best outcome possible.

Referrals for social work support can come via the Memory Assessment Clinic, psychiatric services for the elderly, and any other service within the CDHB.  You may also self-refer in order to access social work support by speaking to a duty social worker at the Alzheimers Canterbury office, within our opening hours (Monday to Friday 8.30 am - 4.30 pm) or by calling 03 379 2590.

Alongside individual and family casework, our social workers also facilitate a number of groups throughout the year at the Alzheimers Canterbury office to maximise the support and information available to clients.

We also have a range of support groups.  Please click on the links below to be directed to them.

 Carer Support Group

This group is for family, friends and supporters of those with dementia.  It is a place to:

• Meet others in a similar situation in a safe environment
• Share what it is like to care for someone with memory loss
• Learn practical ideas for coping and gain knowledge about dementia from others

A carer may be a family member, friend or neighbour.  You do not have to be living with a person with dementia to attend this group.  Please click here to download a PDF of dates and locations for our 2012 Carer Support Groups.

 Post Placement Group

This group offers support to people whose relative or loved one with dementia has recently moved into residential care. It aims to provide support and information to carers who are adjusting to their new situation.

The Post Placement Group:

• Enables carers to meet others in a similar situation
• Provides an opportunity to consider the events leading up to the decision for residential care
• Provides a safe place to express thoughts and feelings
• Is a place to learn about ways to support yourselves and the person in care from other group members and facilitators

If you think you or someone you know would benefit from this group, please contact Alzheimers Canterbury for more information.

 Memory Groups

Our Memory Groups offer support and education for people diagnosed with dementia.  The group meets weekly or monthly to enable participants to:

• Learn from others in a similar situation
• Discuss issues and share ideas
• Support others by sharing experiences and knowledge

People of all ages who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia are able to participate in Memory Groups if they:

• Acknowledge their diagnosis
• Are able to share what it means to them to have dementia
• Wish to understand more about their memory loss and are interested in different ways of managing it

 A referral to a Memory Group by your GP, social worker or health professional is required.