Telephone: 07 308 0525 Charity Registration: CC21067 Freephone: 0800 004 001 E-mail: alzheimerseasternbayofplenty@xtra.co.nz Website: http:/www.alzheimers.org.nz/alzheimers-eastern-bay-of-plenty/

Professionals Building, Unit 3, 4 and 5 38 Landing Road, WHAKATANE PO Box 13, WHAKATANE 3158 Tuesday to Friday 9am to 12 noon

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

As we look forward to a new year with fresh challenges and festivities, we remember the very successful launch of the Art Exhibition and Products at the

library on Monday 7th December 2015

Over $5000 was raised through the auction and sale of products

Many thanks to the sponsors and to the volunteers who spent many hours preparing and managing this event

More information inside newsletter

Making life better for all people affected by dementia Kia piki te ora mo ngā tāngata mate pōrewarewa

CARER SUPPORT MEETINGS

KAWERAU:

NO MEETING IN JANUARY

Date: Thursdays 11th February 2016

Time: 1:30pm

NB New venue: ST GERARDS CHURCH LOUNGE,

123 Onslow Street, Kawerau

WHAKATANE:

Carer support

NO CARER SUPPORT GROUP IN JANUARY

Date: Tuesday 16 February Time: 10.30am

Venue: Alzheimer’s Rooms

------------------------------

Coffee Club:

NO COFFEE CLUB IN JANUARY

Date: Tuesday 16th February

Time: 10.15am

Venue: Knox Presbyterian Church

This group is for the person living with dementia

while the carer attends our Whakatane carer’s

group

--------------------------------

Residential Carer Support Group

NO MEETING. We are now holding the Living Alone Lunch for all who attend residential carers group.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES

NO ACTVITIES IN JANUARY

Walking Group Every Monday 9am Leaves

from the Presbyterian Church, Domain Road

Two Options: Long or shorter walks. All welcome.

Volunteers available for support

Singalong Whakatane

Date: Monday 18th January and 15th February 2016

Time: 10.30am

Venue: Knox Presbyterian Church, Domain Road

Art Group

Date: Thursdays 4th, 18th February, 3 March

Time: 10.30am

Venue: Pou Whakaaro, Te Tahi Street, Whakatane

Blokes’ Sheds: Kawerau and Opotiki

Every Wednesday, Peria House or Mountain View

A Taste of Tai Chi

Thursday 9am to 10am.

4th, 18th February, 3rd March

Knox Presbyterian Church Hall,

Whakatane.

This is for volunteers and caregivers. Please

bring flat heeled shoes, loose clothing, and a

drink bottle.

Please contact the office if you are coming.

COHome Care Services

Community Services

Independent Living Service

Advocacy/’Information Services

We also provide:

Conference Room Hire, Equipment Hire, On-site

Library and Internet access.

Hearing therapist, Stroke & Brain Injury and COPD &

Post-Polio

Field Officers on site

We are a totally committed and professional team who

can assist with any of the above Service needs

Telephone 07 307 1447 Fax 07 307 0229

Email: drct@drct.co.nz Website: www.drct.co.nz

LUNCHEON

Friday 29th January 11.30 am

Kawerau Cosmopolitan Club

$15 each

All welcome

PARTNERSHIP WITH PUBLIC TRUST

HOT OFF THE PRESS NEWS Alzheimer’s New Zealand has entered into a three-year partnership with Public Trust.

For those of you that aren’t familiar with Public Trust, they’re one of New Zealand’s largest trustee organisations and have been around for over 140 years. Their business operates out of 26 customer centres across the country, and they have a long history of supporting New Zealanders with wills, enduring powers of attorney, and management of personal affairs, estates, family and charitable trusts.

This partnership is the first of its kind in New Zealand, which is pretty exciting given that similar relationships between trustee companies and dementia organisations overseas have proven to be very successful. This partnership marks a new level of commitment on their part to support New Zealanders with dementia.

There are two key components to the partnership: 1. Public Trust will sponsor our new suite of information brochures. 2. Public Trust is offering people with dementia and their families a free half-hour consultation where you can access independent third-party advice to help you protect and manage your family interests and assets. To take up this offer please visit the Public Trust website <http://www.publictrust.co..nz/alzheimers-offer> or call them on 0800 156 015

Our small and friendly 31 bed rest home offers long and

short stays, respite and day care programmes. Our

experienced and helpful staff are committed to caring

for our residents. Enjoyable activities and outings

ensure a full lifestyle. We welcome visits and

involvement from family and friends. Inspection and

enquiries welcome.

ROTARY SPUD NIGHT

This year’s Spud night, the nineteenth such evening, was held at Maurice and Leanne Butler’s property. About 100 Rotarians together with some Rowing Club and Alzheimer’s representatives bought along their Spud buckets for the competition to see who had grown the biggest spud over the past 3 months.

On the whole the spuds were very small and disappointing, but there were a few decent sized ones. When I rang around to folk who had purchased a bucket at the Alzheimer’s AGM, most people had some story to tell about the demise of their potato!

The food was delicious with lots of banter especially during the auctions and spit fire raffles. The spuds were auctioned off along with other vegetables - about six buckets altogether. There were three other large raffles and a spinning wheel that was very popular.

It was a wonderful evening out and just showed what can be done collectively. We are very grateful to Rotary West for donating the funds from this night to Alzheimer’s EBOP. Gaylene Bland

We have dedicated experienced staff providing a high

standard of personalised care, visiting in-house

Doctor, daily Diversional Therapy activities catering

for individual needs, group settings and regular

outings and in-house church services. Families and

friends always welcome, we provide a safe secure

homely environment. Inquiries and Inspection

welcome.

OHOPE BEACH CARE

ART EXHIBITION AND PRODUCTS 7 to 11 December 2015

On Monday 7th December, Alzheimer’s Eastern Bay of Plenty launched an event showcasing a portfolio of art, by Whangarei based artist Susan Guenther, and donated by Fran Cacace via the Grammer family. There were also products made from images in this art collection. This very enjoyable and successful event had over 70 people participating and enjoying the contemporary venue in the library, with refreshments served by Whakatane Sunshine Coast Lions. Around 90 pieces of artwork were displayed and products, including cotton bags, aprons, tee-shirts, and cards, were offered for sale. Forget-me-not brooches hand crafted by Whakatane based artist Robin Watchorn, were also on for sale.

After introductory speeches by Ian Finch (Visique) and Sally Shaw (president of EBOP Alzheimers) some art pieces were auctioned and all items were bought. Sally gave thanks to the large number of sponsors who help make the event so positive.

The exhibition and sales table were open until Friday 11th and organisers were delighted with the amount of funds raised.

The artist has generously given her permission for us to use the artworks as we wish for the benefit of our community and people living with dementia. This includes permission for the use of images on the various products for sale. We look forward to organising other events and products capitalising on this wonderful donation.

RESOURCES

We have some excellent books and videos in our library at the Alzheimer’s rooms which you are able to borrow. If

there is something we do not have, we can order it from the national office.

Also please visit our website via the Alzheimer’s New Zealand Website. The address is:

http://www.alzheimers.org.nz/alzheimers-eastern-bay-of-plenty N D O L EN C ES - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

We extend our deepest sympathy to those families especially the Tyrie family, who have lost a

loved one recently and thank the families who requested donations to the Society of lieu of

flowers. Thank you to those who made donations.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DELIRIUM AND DEMENTIA

(http://www.veteranshealthlibrary.org/Encyclopedia/142,41427_VA)

What Is Delirium? Delirium is a sudden change in a person's mental state. It causes problems with attention, thinking, memory, and emotion. Delirium can change over the course of hours or days. It is seen as a medical emergency. If delirium is not diagnosed and treated, it can lead to permanent problems.

What Is Dementia? Dementia is a range of signs that a person's brain is losing function. With dementia, a person's ability to think, remember, and communicate with others gets weaker over time. At first, a person may sometimes be forgetful or confused. Over time, he or she will have trouble following directions and doing daily tasks.

How Are They Different? Dementia is a chronic condition that happens slowly over time. Delirium is a medical emergency that needs to be treated right away. Delirium can often be mistaken for dementia. But - in some cases, delirium and dementia can occur at the same time.

Dementia Delirium

Common signs

Signs include forgetfulness and confusion. They will have trouble speaking with and understanding others.

Signs include seeming quiet, sleepy and confused, or restless and very distressed. Their sleep may be disturbed.

When signs appear

There is a slow change in mental state and behaviour over months or years.

There is a sudden change in mental state and behaviour over hours or days.

Thinking and attention

They may often seem confused. Over time, the person's thinking will not be sensible or logical. As the disease worsens, they will not be able to focus well. They will often not be able to talk with or understand others clearly. In some cases, they may see or hear things that others can't (hallucinations). They will not be able to remember events that just happened, and lose memory of events in the past.

They may be confused and disoriented. They may have trouble focusing and talking with others. It is likely that they will not be able to tell a health care provider about their symptoms. They may see or hear things that other can't (hallucinations). They may not be able to remember something that just happened.

When to Get Medical Help Someone with dementia may also have signs of delirium. This can show that there is another problem. If someone with dementia has sudden changes in mental state, call his or her health care provider right away and tell them the signs you have seen. Or call 111.

Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties. Helen Keller

MESSAGE FROM HEATHER BALCOMBE, OFFICE ADMINISTATOR

I started working for EBOP Alzheimers in March 2008. I applied for the job because I was looking for a part time job that would fit in with school hours and allow

me to be there before and after school for 4 children then aged between 5 and 13.

After having my second child, I decided to give up full time work as a laboratory technician at Tasman Norske Skog as I wanted to be at home. I decided at this stage to also do some more study, and completed a New Zealand Diploma in Business, which involved accounting papers. I enjoyed the accounting side of the study very much. This was in contrast to my science background as I worked at Tasman Norske Skog for 14 years as a lab technician after leaving Kawerau College.

My oldest children Kelli and Abbey, are both at University. Kelli is completing a Masters in Science next year in Hamilton after 3 years at Otago University and Abbey is returning to Otago University to do Physiotherapy. Millie is in Year 13 and Ethan is Year 9, both at Trident High School. My partner, Rob, is a papermaker at Tasman Norske Skog and has been for many, many years.

I enjoy working for EBOP Alzheimers as I know that my part in the organisation makes a difference to other people's lives for the better.

SALLY LUN BUN RECIPE

2 Cups cold mashed potato ¾ Cup Sugar 2 Cups Flour 2 good teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt ½ Cup sultanas (soak in water 10 mins, then drain water off) Approx. ¼ Cup milk Mix all together. Shape into a loaf on a greased oven tray Cook 180 c for 25-30 mins. Cool, ice, sprinkle with coconut Enjoy! This recipe has been asked to be shared as it’s so delicious and easy!

Kath Shepherd

FOR A LAUGH

A senior citizen said to his eighty-year old buddy:

'So I hear you're getting married?'

'Yep!'

Do I know her?'

'Nope!'

'This woman, is she good looking?'

'Not really.'

'Is she a good cook?'

'Naw, she can't cook too well.'

'Does she have lots of money?'

'Nope! Poor as a church mouse.'

'Well, then, is she good in bed?'

'I don't know.'

'Why in the world do you want to marry her

then?'

'Because she can still drive!'

As someone said "There's many a true word spoken in jest"

STOP PRESS A new CLO has just been appointed. We welcome Elayne Tangitu who will begin working at the end of January. Cara will continue on as Education officer.

People can live well with dementia A key part in this is…

You! Are you interested in being a volunteer?

Do you have some spare time in your

week to make someone’s life a bit

brighter?

We are currently looking for volunteers

and in particular volunteer drivers to

transport people to our monthly programs.

Dementia affects people’s ability to be

able to drive and their independence which

can limit their life in many ways, especially

if they live alone

If you are interested in making a

difference, please call Wendy on

3080525

A New Year wish from your President

We have had another successful and full year at Alzheimer’s Eastern Bay of Plenty. A huge thank you to staff and the committee for all you have done! To clients, carers and whanau, have a wonderful holiday season and all the very best for 2016.

Sally Shaw, President

A problem is a chance for you to do your best. Duke Ellington

BEQUESTS

If you would like to support our services and make a positive difference to the lives of many people affected by Alzheimers and other dementias, you may consider making a bequest to: ALZHEIMERS SOCIETY EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY.

You can nominate what you want to leave:

Part or all of what is left from your estate (the residue)

A nominated percentage of your estate

A specific gift.

Whatever you choose to do, your gift will make a difference to the lives of many people in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

We recommend you consult with a solicitor or Public Trust Office when changing your will to include the appropriate clause. Also you can go to includeacharity.org.nz or phone 0800 2462 5833.

Thank you to those who choose to help in this way.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

We at Alzheimer’s Eastern Bay of Plenty are able to

keep up the work we do through the income of

Subscriptions, Donations and Grants that we receive.

An annual subscription of $25 covers the whole

family and covers the period from 1st June to 31st

May each year. This subscription helps us provide the

newsletter to keep you informed about what we do.

Please use the form below to send in with your

donations for the subscription year. Many thanks to

those people who have paid their subscriptions

already.

MEMBERSHIP June 2015/ May 2016 ALZHEIMERS SOCIETY EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY INC Name: Phone No:

Address: Email address:

Annual Subscription for a family: $25.00

Plus donation $ Total: $

Send payment to: Alzheimers Society EBOP, PO Box 13, WHAKATANE 3158 or you can direct credit to Westpac 03-0490-0180920-00 using your name as reference.

ALZHEIMERS EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY

Once you have finished with this newsletter we suggest you hand it on to someone else.

How about leaving it in your doctor’s waiting room, or at the dentist?

You never know who might be in need of some information about our organisation.

From: Alzheimers Society Eastern Bay of Plenty Incorporated. P O Box 13 Whakatane 3158

President Sally Shaw

Committee members Pam Greenaway, Gaylene Bland, David Wicks, Fran Cacace, Julie Meekel and Susie Shaw.

Community Liaison Officers

Kath Shepherd, Cara Addison

Programme Co-ordinator Wendy Tozer

Office Administrator Heather Balcombe

Newsletter Editor Anne Wicks

Opotiki Community Health Trust

Thanks to Simply Graphics for printing this newsletter and supporting Alzheimers