Last updated – Wednesday 13th May 2020
Information about Covid-19
You can find up to date information on the government Unite Against Covid-19 website. Advice for vulnerable and at-risk people can be found here.
Primary healthcare services are still operating during this time. So if you have any concerns or issues during this time, do keep in contact with your GP.
Healthline also have a dedicated Covid-19 number you can call on 0800 358 5453. For any other medical issues, call 0800 611 116.
Help and support for people living with dementia
We are still here to support you. The outbreak of Covid-19 is likely to have had a big impact on all of us. As we continue to unite against Covid-19, there is lots we can all do to support people living with dementia in our communities.
Advice and support:
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Worried about yourself or someone you know?
The early signs of dementia include changes in memory, thinking, behaviour, personality and emotions. If you are worried about changes you've noticed in yourself or someone else, it's very important to see a GP. If the symptoms are caused by dementia, an early diagnosis means early access to support, information, and any appropriate medication will be available, and there will be time to plan for the future.
The 10 signs of dementia
Getting a diagnosis
Emergency Support Plans
If you don’t already have one, preparing an emergency support plan is still really important. Emergency Support Plans contain essential information to help you and the person you care for if your routine is disrupted. If you have difficulty filling out parts of it, a family or friend might be able to assist you by phone or email.
Get an Emergency Support Plan here
Local services
Local Alzheimers organisations are also here to support you. Services on offer include regular check ins through phone, email and video calling, and online activity and support groups. Many are also looking at ways they can hold activities like Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) online. Reach out and talk to them about what's available.
Click here to find and contact your local organisation.
Looking after your wellbeing during this time
If you find yourself feeling stressed or anxious, take the time to look after yourself and do all you can to support your own mental wellbeing. Reach out to your family and whānau, friends and workmates. You can also find more information on the Mental Health Foundation and the Depression NZ websites. For support with grief, anxiety, distress or mental wellbeing, you can call or text 1737 to talk with a trained counsellor for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Useful links
Information for kaumātua - Te Rōpu Whakakaupapa Urutā
Office for Seniors
St John Caring Callers
WeCare.Kiwi
All Right?
Student Volunteer Army Grocery Delivery Service
Continence NZ - Tips during lockdown
Key telephone numbers
- Covid-19 Healthline - 0800 358 5453
- General health issues Healthline - 0800 358 5453
- For emergencies - 111
- Elder Abuse Helpline - 0800 32 668 65
- Ministry of Social Development (MSD) Senior Services line - 0800 552 002
- Government Helpline - 0800 779 997
We will be regularly reviewing and updating this page as the situation around Covid-19 changes and develops.
Information and resources for health professionals can be found here.