AUTUMN 2020 QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER www.ageconcern.org.nz Horowhenua | Kapiti | Manawatu He Manaakitanga Kaumātua Age Concern Horowhenua | Kapiti | Manawatu Serving the needs of older people

For advertising phone Dave 027 652 5220 or email [email protected] A Kiwi Publications Limited publication | www.kiwipublications.co.nz | Please refer to website for disclaimer 2 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 3 Have a Driving Contact Information Contact Information YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND Miss Daisy Age Concern Horowhenua Age Concern Palmerston Companionship is at the heart of the Driving Miss experience with us. Phone: (06) 367 2181 North & Districts Daisy service. It’s the relationship that develops Email: [email protected] Phone: (06) 355 2832 between our Daisy drivers and their clients that Address: 538 Queen Street, Levin 5510 Email: [email protected] makes our business so rewarding. OFFICE HOURS Address: 51 Waldegrave Street, Now celebrating 10 years of business our clients are 9.00am - 3.00pm Monday to Friday 4410 evolving with how they use our service, which is a BOARD MEMBERS OFFICE HOURS direct result of the companionship that is unique to Chairperson: Dorothy Moore 8.30am - 3.30pm Monday to Friday the Driving Miss Daisy Service. Secretary: Sue Carson STAFF The business originated to empower the elderly, Treasurer: Vicky Prouting Manager: Marian Dean to give you the freedom to live independently by Committee: Sylvia Meijer, Chris Sutcliffe, offering a companion driving service that would be Peter Dyer Elder Abuse and Response Social Worker: reliable, trusted and affordable. We saw how the STAFF Social Connection Coordinator: elderly could still “be in charge” as they went about EANP Coordinator: Dan Geraghty Fern Brooking their daily errands of shopping and being on time Administration Manager: Annemarie Smith for appointments knowing one of our Daisies would Accredited Visitor Service Coordinator/ always be by their side. Driving Miss Daisy is your safe, friendly Admin Assistant: Wendy McMahon and reliable companion driving service. Disclaimer: Social Connection Service: Melanie Lilley The views expressed in this newsletter are not Today people ask what has changed in 10 years. We can drive and accompany you to: necessarily those of Age Concern HKM. The inclusion or Well, we are now successfully operating across the exclusion of any product does not mean that the publisher • Transporting you to your appointments or Age Concern advocates or rejects its use. country with over 250 fabulous Daisy cars on the road. • Grocery shopping • Airport pick-ups We are very grateful to the many who have supported • Companion outings Contact Information PLEASE SUPPORT us like ACC, NZTA and numerous Regional Councils • Keeping your independence Age Concern Kapiti who accredited us under their Total Mobility Scheme, OUR ADVERTISERS which provides half price fares up to certain limits on • Taking children to outings Phone: (04) 298 8879 Their support enables the production of this numerous trips for many of you on our service. • Or even transporting your pet! Email: [email protected] newsletter, so please support them. Total Mobility Scheme cards accepted Address: 1st Floor, Coastlands Mall, Rimu However the biggest change we are seeing are the and ACC approved provider. Road, 5032 Daisy Experiences. Every aging expert especially those involved with dementia are in agreement that Bookings are essential – call today and OFFICE HOURS Millvale House maintaining our social networks helps maintain not make your next outing a pleasure! 8.30am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday only our physical health but helps reduce the risk of Waikanae-Otaki Ph: (04) 293 3042 L E V I N depression. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Kapiti Ph: (04) 298 3689 Roger Booth (Chairman), Beverley Chappell, Daisy Experiences offer endless possibilities. From Fay Doyle, Sonya Sloan, Duncan McDonald, Our team of staff care for and connect with the people who live at Millvale House as they would a best friend. trips to revisit places we once knew so well, to a drive Levin Ph: (06) 367 2060 Jill Stansfield, Jane Yoong The unique environment at Millvale House Levin is in the country, to getting friends together for a café Feilding Ph: (06) 323 4333 welcoming and tranquil, a home away from home. outing, an event or simply just getting out and about, STAFF it’s all good for you. West Palmerston North Ph: (06) 355 0470 General Manager: Dermot Whelan REST HOME AND East Palmerston North Ph: (06) 355 0040 AgeConnect Kapiti Coordinator/Support Talk to your local Daisy or call us to find Services: Tristine Tilly CONTINUING HOSPITAL CARE AVS Coordinator and Health Promotion: 42 Mako Mako Road, Levin out how we can help you stay social, Alison Miller Please contact us on (06) 367 2027 active and independent. www.drivingmissdaisy.co.nz www.millvalelevin.co.nz Editorial supplied by Driving Miss Daisy 4 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 5

AGESteady CONCERN As You Go© News from Age Concern Horowhenua What’s On in the Horowhenua A Strength, Balance and Falls Prevention Programme the Christmas lunch. Age Concern were very lucky to Stay Safe Refresher Courses for Older Drivers “Big Christmas Shout Out” Stay Safe is a classroom refresher workshop for the have several generous businesses in our community senior road users with the aim to maintain and improve • Falls are the most common cause of injury in that contributed to this event. Businesses such as for Horowhenua Aged Concern safe driving practices. The workshop aims to maintain older people New World, Countdown, Garden of York, Harvey Our local office of the Horowhenua Age Concern and improve safe driving practices while raising • Falls can lead to a significant loss of mobility Bowler Funeral services, I C Mark Funeral Directors, held their first annual “Big Christmas Shout Out” awareness about driving behaviours. and quality of life The Warehouse, RJ’s Licorice, Cloud 9, Susanne on Thursday 5th December in recognition of all our Cottle and Robyn Curtis. Confirmed course dates for 2020 • One third of people over the age of 65 fall each Volunteers, Community Group Organisations Where: Queen Street Chapel, year and Clients. Volunteers, Community Group 541 Queen Street, Levin • Half of people over 80 fall each year Organisations and Clients are an integral When: Thursday 16th April 2020 • Falls in older people are almost always part of our organisation, and without them Cost: Free associated with weakened leg muscles and working behind the scenes or in the forefront, Bookings essential as spaces are limited. poor balance Age Concern would not be able to continue to provide services to our older people in the Nat & Chat • Falls are not a natural part of ageing community. Nat & Chat is an informal gathering for over 65’s. • Falls ARE preventable! Held on the last Thursday of each month, with a Age Concern wanted our Volunteers, different guest speaker each month. Come along and • Joining a SAYGo class and improving your Community Group Organisations and Clients enjoy a cuppa, a cake and great company. strength and balance can reduce falls & injuries to know that their efforts throughout the year Where: Queen Street Chapel, were appreciated and had not gone unnoticed. 541 Queen Street, Levin So, the idea of the “Big Christmas Shout Out” When: Last Thursday of every month was born. Cost: Free The big day saw a great turn out and the Levin Christmas cheer – fun had by all A light morning tea will be provided. weather did not disappoint, with no sign of the Steady as You Go© previous rain and wind that had hammered our town. Once all were seated, the moment everyone was Community based, falls prevention exercise classes, The morning started with a sing along of Christmas waiting for, the arrival of Santa Claus, also known as improve your balance, leg strength, flexibility, general songs hosted by Robyn Curtis, who had volunteered Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas, Saint Nick, Kris fitness and wellbeing. SAYGo improves: her time and skills to entertain us all. Kringle, Santa, or simply Dan Geraghty our Elder • Includes simple exercises, seated in a chair, • Balance and leg strength After a few words of welcome, everyone proceeded Abuse Responsive Service Coordinator. standing and walking. • Flexibility to take their place at the festive tables set out for • Proven to improve balance, spatial awareness, • General fitness and wellbeing Santa arrived on his trusty mobility scooter, flexibility and leg strength. • And is a great way to meet new people beautifully decorated in the • Participants feel physically better and more able. theme of Christmas. Santa then • Class members enjoy being with a friendly group Current classes proceeded with the help of his of likeminded people. 1:30pm Thursday and Friday at The Community trusty elf, to spread the word of • A range on light ankle weights are used for leg Hub, 32 Bristol Street, Levin Christmas along with a small gift strengthening exercises. 11:00am Tuesday at Queen Street Chapel Youth to take away. • All participants are encouraged to work at their Hall, 541 Queen Street East, Levin A great day was had by all, all own pace. went home with full bellies and a • Classes run for an hour and cost $3.00 to attend. New Class special gift chosen just for them. Age Concern have several classes that operate 11:00am Wednesday at Te Awahou Nieuwe We hope to continue our throughout the Horowhenua areas. Stroom, 92 Main Street, Foxton. “Big Christmas Shout Out” in recognition of all our awesome For more information or to secure a place: Contact: Classes are one hour each week, $3 per class Melanie Lilley | Social Connection Coordinator | people that allow Age Concern to ENQUIRIES & BOOKINGS for 2019 continue to serve the older people Age Concern Horowhenua Email: [email protected] Phone (06) 367 2181 - Age Concern Horowhenua in our community. Santa and his Elf Phone: Direct (06) 920 2175 | Office (06) 367 2181 538 Queen Street, Levin. 6 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 7

AGE CONCERN AS A a cuppa together (with some of J’s fantastic afghan Do you know an older person interests and activities with clients, and support biscuits). I would often get to bring afghan biscuits them, where possible, to make other community VOLUNTEER VISITOR home with me, and J is personally responsible for a 2kg who would like more company? contacts weight gain. J also makes the best pickled onions. I’m I first heard about Age Concern when I was on a generally not a fan, but those onions of hers are like a - Age Concern Accredited What don’t we do? community board, and we heard updates about the real class B drug. Visitors are there to provide social support. They problems going on in our region. So, when I became People often ask me what it’s like volunteering for Age Visiting Service (AVS) can help are not allowed to do personal cares, housework, “semi-retired” (hah) I decided I’d like to volunteer. Concern. I get the impression that they imagine that What is the AVS to handle medications or finances, or to do regular I told my parents I was doing it and they asked me why. I go and visit, pat J on the head and listen to all her The AVS is a befriending service aimed at reducing shopping I replied that I’d like to get some real experience for how troubles. It’s not like that at all. Yes, we talk about social isolation and loneliness amongst older people Assessing risk to deal with them in a few years, as the last suggestion I happy things, sad things, health worries and families. Older people experiencing the following are more at We definitely laugh. I help with her gardening, she Why is it important? made about putting them in wheelbarrows so they could risk of loneliness and social isolation: helped mend a crochet blanket from my great Aunt. Research shows that loneliness is as bad for health have a tour of my garden didn’t go down very well. Low income Poor Health We go out for lunch or morning tea, visit her friends as smoking, and that social isolation almost doubles I got asked by the local coordinator to meet with a Living alone Lack of Private Transport (and her doctor) and have even gone for a trip to the an older person’s risk of going into residential care. new client and I said “yes”. Then she said that the cemetery so she can talk with her parents. Depression Bereavement last volunteer wasn’t well received and so I was a Who is it for? What can you expect when you make a little apprehensive. I do have a couple of things in my It’s a relationship that we both benefit from and she’s AVS Clients must be: favour however, I have no shame and like a bit of a now a really important part of my life. So, I guess to • Willing to be referred referral to AVS? laugh. Well, me and J hit it off straight away. We were finish up I’d like to say “Thank you Age Concern” (or as • A risk of social isolation due to having no or very • Clients accepted for the service will be contacted gossiping away like people who had known each other I like to call you – AC!) for the introduction to a friend. few regular visitors within two weeks for years within the first week. I’d invite you over for pickled onions and afghans, but • 65 and over in most cases • Clients will be assessed, and matched with they’re not for sharing. compatible visitors, subject to availability Pretty soon me, J and her cleaner and I started having • Able to contribute to a mutually beneficial relationship • Matches will be regularly reviewed • Usually individuals, but may also be couples • Some Age Concerns offer additional social support experiencing isolation, often when one is in a options such as group activities through the AVS carer role • The AVS coordinator will liaise as required with other agencies to address client needs outside the What does the AVS scope of the service. do? AVS visitors provide To refer an older person to the Accredited Visiting regular visits of Service please contact Wendy at Age Concern about an hour Horowhenua, 538 Queen Street East Levin per week, share ph 06 367 2181

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8 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 9

Saturday 28th March Horowhenua Skills4Living How well do you In July 2019 the Horowhenua SuperGrans began know the road rules? trading as “Skills4Living”. Our new name has been a Fun Day long time in the making and we feel it better reflects 10:00am – 2:00pm what we do. In essence, we teach life skills such as budgeting, parenting, cooking, sewing, household (FREE ELECTRIC BLANKET TESTING) routines etc. In conjunction with Horowhenua District Council, Our mentors teach these life skills in a non- Neighbourhood Support are having their annual judgmental and caring manner. We offer “Money fun day community event at the Village Green in mates’ which is a budgeting programme that can be Levin. undertaken in a group or individually. Budgeting is Free BBQ, Free Give-Aways and Free Children’s an important skill to learn and age is no barrier. We Activities, come along and have some fun offer the Incredible Years parenting course which with the Fire Service, St John’s, Civil Defence, caters for parents, grandparents and caregivers of Community Patrol and children aged between 3-7 years. It is about building Staying Safe is a classroom-based refresher workshop Hits Radio will be hosting relationships with our children and learning skills to for senior road users. The workshop aims to maintain from the park on the day. effectively parent. and improve safe driving practices and increase the knowledge of other transport options available to help Also available on the day We run cooking classes focusing on cheap, nutritious senior road users remain safely mobile. is FREE Electric Blanket food and how to make meals stretch. One on one Testing cooking in the home is also available using one of Contact for enquiries or bookings: our mentors. We have an industrial sewing machine Please phone 06 3672181 or call in at 538 Queen and over locker available in our office to teach sewing Stree East, Levin from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday. at any level. We all have to tackle housework so we can help make the process smarter not harder. If you Dates for workshops for 2020 to be confirmed. would like to learn a life skill or have the necessary A light lunch is provided. skills to teach life skills please contact our office. www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/senior-road-users Christmas raffle winner Anne Riach 8 Bath Street, Levin Phone: 06 367-0680 Email: [email protected] Age Concern Horowhenua wishes Enliven creates elder-centred communities to thank all our sponsors in 2020 for w h e r e i n d i v i d u a l s a r e r e c o g n i s e d a n d v a l u e d – a place where everyone can enjoy making our work possible companionship, meaningful activity and fun.

• Coombrae Home and Village, Feilding • Willard Home, Palmerston North • Brightwater Home and Village, Palmerston North SUSIE MILLS LAW • Reevedon Home and Village, Levin Waikanae and Otaki • Levin Home for War Veterans, Levin TRC TOYOTA • Kapiti Day Programme, Paraparaumu Get the support of professional advice When supporting the advertisers within this with easy access locations magazine PLEASE LET THEM KNOW. retirement villages rest home hospital dementia Their continuation enables our newsletter to short term respite health recovery day programmes WILLS • ESTATES • POWERS OF ATTORNEY be provided free of charge - they need to know where you found them and that the advertising is Free phone 0508 ENLIVEN or visit Otaki - Ph: (06) 364 7190 Waikanae - Ph: (04) 293 3735 working for them too. www.enlivencentral.org.nz Email: [email protected] Thanks 10 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 11

I GOT SICK OF BEING ALL woo-woo – something bigger than ourselves. apparently improves elasticity in the brain and as Courtenay Hearing Centre volunteers age, it might help maintain those brain I’ve since moved away from so, sadly, had connections that often break down in Alzheimer’s Serving the Kapiti area since 1993 ABOUT ME to break up with the Monday night puppy walkers. patients. (Your weekend Magazine/Stuff – Sharon Stephenson ) But not far from my new home is a dog shelter where, Here at Courtenay Hearing Centre we focus on once a week, I walk adult dogs hoping to find their As I’m currently watching my mother being dredged providing solutions that best meet people’s needs Everyone has different skills. I’ll go first: I’m good forever home. I’m not going to lie: trailing behind through the horrific swamp that is dementia, I say as and budget. We source products from all the major at walking in heels, making jam and using an 25-plus kilos of mixed breed canine who could a big fat yes to anything that could help me avoid a hearing instrument manufacturers - from whom we apostrophe. easily outpace and out-power me isn’t always easy, similar fate. are independent, allowing us to provide unbiased especially when the weather turns feral. But on the professional advice, and to offer the best solution to I’m bad at reversing into car parking spaces, The late great Muhummad Ali was known for saying a drive home I always end up smiling like a loon. I maximise your hearing potential. swimming backstroke and baking sourdough (I’ve yet lot of things, mainly to do with floating like a butterfly. probably get more out of those three hours than the to nail the perfect starter). But he was also a man who knew his way around Courtenay Hearing Centre provides a full range of dogs do: I feel happier, calmer and as if I’ve actually charitable causes and one of his better utterances audiology services including tinnitus assessment Until about five years ago, I was also catastrophically given back in some minuscule way. and treatment, ear protection solutions, assistive bad at giving my time and energy to anyone other was: “ Service to others is the rent you pay for your Google “volunteering” and you’ll be inundated with room here on Earth” Whether that’s walking dogs, listening devices as well as batteries, hearing aid than myself. I got up, went to work, did stuff with repairs and accessories. family and friends, and went to bed. The sands research that backs this up: doing something for helping at a soup kitchen or teaching English to drifting through my life’s hourglass were all about, someone else without the expectation of payment, refugees, each of us has a skill with which we can, If you or a family member are having problems and for, me. thanks or even acknowledgement can improve one’s and should, pay our Earthly rent. hearing, call and make an appointment today to see mental health, life satisfaction, wellbeing and skill the team at Courtenay Hearing Centre at a location But one grim July night, while pretending to jog levels while at the same time reducing stress and its near you, for caring, professional advice. around Wellington’s waterfront, I spied a group of harmful effects on the body. I HAVE BLISTERS ON MY HANDS eight people wearing distinctive SPCA hi-vis vests Visit our website for Volunteering, say the experts, is known to kick-start FROM THE BROOM. www.courtenayhearing.co.nz and walking adorably fat puppies. Stopped, nuzzled more information. into that delicious puppy smell and bailed up the the brain into producing feel-good endorphins which organiser, who told me that every Monday evening result in the so-called “helper’s high” and it can help people feel more connected to each other and have a a group of volunteers walked the shelter puppies to TAKE THE CAR socialise them with people and the great wide world. heightened sense of purpose. Which in turn, can help I signed up on the spot. relieve depression, PTSD, lower self-esteem and even NEXT TIME! obsessive compulsive disorder. Almost every Monday, through howling southerlies and warm summer evenings, I joined this group of It gets better: a 2017 study from the University of Caring for your hearing dedicated volunteers who shared a love of animals Calgary showed that people who volunteer could be a and a realisation that giving up a few hours each lower risk of dementia. The study found that seniors For independent professional advice week provides a sense of purpose and a connection who volunteered for at least one hour a week on a • Hearing assessments both to others and – without wanting to sound too regular basis were 2.44 times less likely to develop • Digital hearing aids — all brands dementia than those who didn’t. Social service (60-day trial) • Tinnitus assessment and treatment • ACC, Ministry of Health Membership Form Age Concern Horowhenua and War Veterans funding • Musician and noise plugs Mr / Mrs / Miss / Ms • Accessories, batteries and servicing Name:______Looking after you, your family Call (04) 385 9144 Address:______and the small print. FREEPHONE 0800 432 766 Telephone:______P 06 368 9239 WELLINGTON WAIKANAE Email:______Level 2, 15 Courtenay Place Waikanae Specialist Centre, E [email protected] Marae Lane Cost: $10 Per Annum 28 Queen Street, Levin PARAPARAUMU LEVIN Donations of $5.00 and over are eligible for a tax credit under the terms or Section LD1 of the Income Tax Act 2007. 8A Ihakara Street SeeHear , 174 Oxford Street For more information please phone Age Concern Horowhenua on (06) 367 2181 cslaw.co.nz [email protected] www.courtenayhearing.co.nz Editorial supplied by Courtenay Hearing Centre 12 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 13

loneliness and social isolation on older people and STEADY AS YOU GO News from Age Concern Kapiti encouraging communities to address these. By Dermot Whelan, Manager at Age Concern Kapiti Our AgeConnect project is all about increasing social FALLS PREVENTION SURVEY TO HELP DETERMINE study has confirmed it’s real and connections for older people in Kapiti and it is CLASSES that steps need to be taken to now a clearly defined Government strategy. The We are continuing our well- understand the issues and find findings of the Massey University study which THE EXTENT OF LONELINESS established Steady As You Go (SAYGO) Falls solutions. There are implications reported moderate or high levels of loneliness in Prevention classes, with four new weekly classes AMONG OLDER PEOPLE in the findings for the likes of Kapiti make it even more vital for AgeConnect having just started around the District at Otaki, central and local governments Kapiti and all other interested organisations, groups Dermot Whelan Waikanae, Paraparaumu Beach and Raumati. As and the Age Friendly initiative and individuals to find initiatives that reduce these many are aware, falls are the most common cause of here on the coast. Of particular concerning figures. injury among older people. One third of people over interest to us in the findings is the Increased interaction with our neighbours at street the age of 65 have at least one fall every year and important role that neighbours and neighbourhoods level is a factor we can all change for the better. So this increases to 1 in 2 people over the age of 80. can play in alleviating loneliness. Survey it’s good to hear that Neighbourhood Support will respondents’ sense of Neighbourhood Security and have a strong presence in Kapiti in 2020. Emma These falls are almost always associated with Neighbourhood Social Cohesion, as well as McGill, Neighbourhood Support Coordinator says weakened leg muscles and poor balance. But falls Housing Satisfaction and Neighbourhood that there have been approximately one hundred are preventable and by joining our evidence-based Accessibility were all found to be ‘moderately strongly neighbourhood groups set up over time in Kapiti, SAYGO classes you will improve your strength and associated’ with loneliness. with about 50 of these in Paraparaumu. We will be balance to help reduce your likelihood of having a fall. Individual factors such as health and personal working with Emma and Neighbourhood Support this relationships are important to understand. However, year, as we strive to “increase social connections It may not be too late when you read this to enrol in terms of aspects of social life that we can change, for older people in Kapiti”, the purpose of our yourself or a friend for a SAYGO class near you. the associations of neighbourhood factors with AgeConnect Kapiti project. loneliness are stronger and more consistent than the relationships between people’s group memberships and social activities with loneliness. Individual factors like health and belonging to Part of the audience listening to the restricted networks must be taken into account Age Concern Kapiti Survey results when considering who is at the highest risk of loneliness and may require provision of services. Professor Christine Stephens from the Massey However, these are factors that are difficult to University School of Psychology certainly kept her change. When considering prevention of loneliness, audience fully engaged at Age Concern Kapiti’s neighbourhood qualities are broader aspects of the recent function to announce the very interesting environment that may be strongly influenced by findings of our survey of older people. central and local government policy and planning. The Social Connections study carried out by Massey One of the strategies we are currently working on in on behalf of Age Concern Kapiti used two our AgeConnect Kapiti project is encouraging Above left to right; Louise Rees (ACNZ), The Steady As You Go Waikanae class established measures to find the levels of loneliness people to get to know their neighbours. Professor Chris Stevens (Massey University) and in the over 65s living on the Kapiti Coast. The Of interest to us also is the recently published New Tristine Tilly (AgeConnect Project Coordinator) at first – the UCLA Loneliness Scale – found that 21% Zealand Government Strategy - Making the the function to announce the survey results of respondents reported moderate or high levels future better for New Zealanders as We Age 2019- of loneliness. The second – The De Jong Gierveld 2034. The strategy document “Better Later Life” Loneliness Scale which distinguishes between social identifies 5 key areas for action, one of which is and emotional loneliness – found that 44% reported “Enhancing opportunities for participation and moderate to high levels of loneliness. social connection.” The strategy highlights the Prior to this study we were not sure of the extent of need to reduce loneliness among older people, by loneliness among older people in Kapiti. The such means as raising awareness of the impact of 14 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 15

STAYING SAFE AND LIFE SCAMS, CONTINUE TO BE SUPERGOLD Personal and economical transport WITHOUT A CAR ON FULL ALERT SMARTPHONE APP with extra help - Total Mobility (TM) accepted We’ve talked about scams on many occasions and A recent government announcement slipped by We are soon to launch two new Call Freedom Drivers for medical, business and the need for everyone to be very vigilant about relatively unnoticed by the media. The personal appointments or assistance with shopping. initiatives in Kapiti - Staying Safe anything that could be a scam. Sadly, scams keep Right Honourable Winston Peters wisely chose How about a drive with a stop for morning or and Life Without A Car. coming. 1 October – International Day of Older Persons – to afternoon tea for yourself and a couple of friends? launch the new SuperGold SmartPhone app and Staying Safe is a refresher course for older drivers, a Here’s another one to ignore - updated SuperGold website. “We bring our friendly service to your door and we free classroom based course that will help you A sophisticated email scam, which pretends to be will provide extra help at either end of the journey as re-familiarise yourself with traffic rules and safe from the NZ Transport Agency, is taking unsuspecting One of the many fine features of the new app is needed. For medical appointments we make sure driving practices. It will also increase your people to a webpage to renew their vehicle licence finding discounts easily through the ‘near me’ you get to the right place and will wait if necessary knowledge about other transport options and help (rego) and asks for many personal details such as button. Simply push the button and you will see a or pick you up after the appointment. Travelling with you remain independent for longer. NZ driver licence details and banking information. map highlighting the discount closest to you. Freedom is like travelling with friends or family. You Depending on how much personal information the There are thousands of instant discounts available Older people stop driving for various reasons. The build a relationship with a driver you get to know and scamming website receives, the fraudsters may have with your SuperGold card. The new app helps you resultant feeling of loss of independence can be trust.” overwhelming for some. They will agonise about such enough information to carry out a virtual identity find them easily, both in your own neighbourhood and Service is personalised and Freedom prices are issues as how can they continue to do their theft. across the country. comparable to (and often less) than a standard taxi. shopping, make medical appointments, cost of How to spot this scam email - We take Total Mobility cards (TM) and are alternative transport, loss of social connections, If you’ve recently received an email asking you to ACC Registered Vendors. reluctance to being perceived as a burden on others. renew your rego, please check the email details But stopping driving need not be a limiting factor that carefully. Genuine Transport Agency emails always Call Lindsey directly now on 04 298 3184 or prevents you doing what you want. use an nzta.govt.nz suffix. If the email was genuinely 021 355 142 for more information or to get a quote. Life Without A Car is a free classroom based course sent from the Transport Agency, it will include your which demonstrates that adjusting to life without a specific vehicle details including: your vehicle’s plate TRANSPORT YOU CAN TRUST car doesn’t mean losing independence and freedom. number, vehicle make, the expiry date of your current The information provided will highlight some vehicle licence. If the email you received does not alternatives available to remain active and some include your specific vehicle details, do not complete solutions on how to go about life with some planning the online renewal transaction webpage that the and adjustment. Several Age Concerns around NZ email takes you to. are successfully running these courses and we are delighted to be joining them. Reliable and Call Lindsey now! We will be running several Staying Safe and Life friendly service Without A Car courses in the first half of 2020, For more information • Medical appointments starting next month. Let us know if you would like to • Social and business trips attend either or both. 04 298 3184 or • Shopping • Sightseeing and outings 0800 956 956 Become a Friend of Age Concern Kapiti • Airport transfers Mr / Mrs / Miss / Ms Friend of Age Concern Kapiti only $15.00 • Pets to the vet Total Mobility ACC Donation: REGISTERED Name:______• One off or regular Provider VENDOR q $10 q $20 q $30 q $50 q $Other...... Address:______• Long trips and local TOTAL: $...... ______Donations of $5 and over are eligible for a tax credit under the terms or Section LD1 of the Income Tax Act 2007 ______Sue Russ (guest speaker from Welcome Tours) For direct bank transfer A/C: Telephone:______WESTPAC 03 0732 0153395 000 and Alison Miller (Health Promotion Co-ordinator) at the February companion driving Email:______A receipt will only be sent if this box is ticked q Age Concern Kapiti HAT Group meeting Age Concern Kapiti, PO Box 217 Paraparaumu 5032 www.freedomdrivers.co.nz

Editorial supplied by Freedom Drivers 16 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 17

HealthCare New Zealand Being independent is key to our quality of life. For TRANSMISSION GULLY Harbour City Funeral Home, most people, that means staying in our own homes, Living with an ICD? Isn’t it good to hear that the Transmission Gully Proudly Locally Owned and Operated close to our family, friends, communities and favourite (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) opening date has been announced – 1 November Harbour City Funeral Home personnel are available activities. 2020! What a transformational change this will make to serve families throughout Wellington and greater Free information sessions on ICDs with Sometimes we need a hand to maintain our for the Kapiti region. It won’t be just the older Wellington region with premises in Wellington, Lower independence, and that’s where HealthCare New Lin Coleman, Specialty Clinical Nurse in Heart Rhythm Management. generation coming to live here in big numbers, but Zealand can offer high quality help, tailored to your the young families too. Six thousand people living Coast. Hutt, Upper Hutt, and now in Paraparaumu, Kāpiti lifestyle. Share your experience and ask questions. in Kapiti commute to Wellington for work each day. Started in 1989 by Simon Manning, the business is HealthCare New Zealand supports people around the Transmission Gully will slash the travelling times still locally owned and overseen by Simon’s keen country with personal care, home management and from Kapiti, making it an even more desirable place eye for innovation, passion and excellence in funeral service. Whilst many funeral companies are under the domestic support, nursing services and rehabilitation. Kapiti¯ to live. Their specialist skills, knowledge and expertise lets ownership of multi-national funeral chains Harbour Transmission Gully’s completion is certainly not City has proudly remained locally owned. them work with you to create a plan that suits your Date: Wednesday 29 April 2020 before its time. The November opening will come needs, regardless of age, illness, injury or disability. Time: 5.30 to 7pm Harbour City Funeral home looks after all aspects of just a shade over a century since the first publicly funeral care including at-need, pre-planning and pre- With a national network of experienced and trained Where: Te Newhanga K¯a piti recorded discussions of the need for a new inland payment, monumental work (headstones and plaques), professionals, HealthCare New Zealand works Community Centre, road connecting Wellington to the north, reported in online memorials at www.tributes.co.nz, bereavement alongside people and their families each step of 15a Ngahina St, Paraparaumu The Evening Post in 1919. Whoever that visionary the way, with a personalised support plan that person was in 1919, I’m sure he or she did not think natural burials. incorporates your needs and goals. it would take 100 years to happen. But it is, and it will Pleasesupport contact services us asfor well a copy as being of our certified free, no-obligation to carry out With a toll-free 0800 number and Register at be good! funeral information booklet. Our location phone website – www.healthcarenz.co.nz icdinfo.eventbrite.co.nz numbers are listed in the advertisement below. or phone 04 472 2780 it’s easy to get the support that works for you. Heart www.harbourcityfunerals.co.nz heartfoundation.org.nz TM Foundation

Heart Support Groups

Support groups for people and wh¯anau impacted by heart disease including atrial fibrillation. Supporting Independence Come along and join us for a chat and a cuppa, and the opportunity to meet others With over 19 years of experience and a professional team with similar conditions.

you to live independently in your own home. Feilding Kāpiti Coast Our services include: When: 4pm, last Wednesday of the month Ph: (04) 298 4888 • Personal care • Nursing services Where: Senior Leisure and Learning Centre, Wellington • Home care services • Goal based services 14 Bowen St, Feilding Ph: (04) 387 8301 Four of our wonderful Christmas gift Locally owned funeral Upper Hutt may be free for eligible residents. Levin wrappers in Coastlands Mall. Ph: (04) 528 8924 directors, caring in your When: 1pm, third Monday of the month We also support privately Where: Totara Room Lower Hutt community. Contact us paying clients. Te Takere, 10 Bath St, Levin Ph: (04) 570 0111 For more information: today for your FREE Nothing is particularly hard if Freephone: 0800 275 174 Contact Cath at about funerals booklet. www.healthcarenz.co.nz [email protected] you divide it into small jobs. or phone 04 472 2780 ext 2 © Healthcare of New Zealand Holdings Limited. Healthcare of New Zealand Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Healthcare of New Heart TM Zealand Holdings Limited. Foundation www.harbourcityfunerals.co.nz Editorial supplied by Healthcare New Zealand Editorial supplied by Harbour City Funeral Home 18 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 19

Moving Away from Cheques Kiwibank support News from Age Concern New Zealand For many years the use of cheques has been quickly declining. In New Zealand the use of cheques has more with internet Palmerston North & Districts Branch Inc than halved in the five years between 2013 and 2018. So far, large organisations like Kiwibank, New Zealand banking in I am counting down the weeks until Age Concern The membership year is for 12 months from 1st July Post, Inland Revenue and ACC have announced they will Palmerston North Palmerston North and Districts will be a stand-alone to 30th June. The cost is $20 for individuals and $30 no longer be accepting cheques from the following dates: Kiwibank are offering their customers one-on-one branch of Age Concern. This will take effect at the for a couple and $100 for an organisation. If you • Kiwibank from 28 February 2020 support with a staff member for internet banking. end of April, when the services, staff and resources join before the 1st July, we will give you membership • New Zealand Post from 29 February 2020 will be handed over from Age Concern New Zealand through to 30th June 2021. A membership form is • Inland Revenue from 1 March 2020 Customers can make an appointment by phoning to Age Concern Palmerston North and Districts. As included in this issue. • ACC from 1 March 2020. or calling in at the branch. The bank has a Digital an independent organisation, we will be better able Even though the use of cheques is declining, New Hub where there are 5 iPads available for customer On a sad note we said goodbye to Robyn Baker our to support older people in the Manawatu Region Zealanders still wrote 18.7 million cheques in 2018 and use for their banking. There are also videos that Elder Abuse social worker who retired on the 4th (Palmerston North and Manawatu Districts.). The they are still used for many different reasons, especially customers can watch with step by step instructions February. Robyn had been a big part of Age Concern large payments. Board, staff and volunteers are all very excited about in internet banking available on the Kiwibank website for the past 10 years and she will be greatly missed this change. We know that the decision to move away from cheques is www.kiwibank.co.nz. in the community. We thank Robyn for all the service likely to affect seniors most. Many older people are not A lot of work has gone in to making this happen. she committed to older people in the region and to tech savvy, cannot afford devices or access the internet. To make an appointment for one-on-one support An Advisory Group, made up of members of the Age Concern and wish her well in her retirement. Some seniors also intentionally avoid using the internet phone the branch on 06 952 1283 or call in at the local community, met throughout 2019 to work to out of fear of scams. We understand cheques can feel like branch 227, Broadway Ave., Palmerston North. establish the new organisation. At a community Marian Dean the safest option. meeting on 15th July 2019 attendees unanimously Manager, Age Concern NZ Palmerston North & Kiwibank have taken a few steps to try and make this voted to establish Age Concern Palmerston North and Districts Branch Inc. transition easier. They have introduced face-to-face Districts as an incorporated society and a governing support through ‘Tech Teas’ at their branches and free digital banking workshops at about 120 selected Board was elected consisting of Christina Brenton Age Concern Palmerston North and Districts community centres and libraries across the country. (Chair), Jeff Rayner (Vice Chair and Finance Officer) A Digital Education Hub has also been set up to provide with Joan Chettleburgh, Tracey Sefton-Wiggins, and wishes to thank all our sponsors for making how-to videos and step-by-step guides to help people with Tracy Lynn elected as Board members. Paul Rieger our work possible. the basics of internet banking and keeping safe online. and Sharon Matthews-Smith joined in August and You can find out more about this help through the September. These board members bring a wealth Kiwibank website at www.kiwibank.co.nz or by visiting the Palmerston North branch of Kiwibank, at 227, Broadway of knowledge and experience to their roles and the Avenue. community is fortunate that they are volunteering to lead the organisation. Gordon Lindsey Isaacs Trust From Super Seniors Newsletter February 2020 Kingdom Foundation Our vision is that “Older people live a valued life in Rose City an inclusive society”. Our mission is to work for the Mainland Foundation Lions Club respect, rights, well-being and dignity of older people • New Dentures - individually created in the Manawatu Region. Our services are open to You’ll come out smiling Ministry all people aged 65+ and any person or organisation • Same day denture repairs of • Relining of existing dentures can contact us for information and advice. You do not Health need to be a member to use our services. • Partial Dentures • Custom made mouthguards for all sports We do invite everyone to support us in our work by • Professional Denture Cleaning Service becoming members of Age Concern Palmerston Catholic Diocese of • All NEW work guaranteed, book your FREE consultation now North and Districts. Your membership fee will entitle Palmerston North, • Free WINZ and Insurance Quotes. We accept Community you to receive the quarterly newsletter by post or Catholic Charities Services Card & Grey Power email and to receive advance notice of events. In Allocation Committee becoming a member, you will be able to make a big Thanks to Symons Palmerston North for their 151 Heretaunga Street, Palmerston North 14 Bowen Street, Feilding difference to the lives of older people in the region. recent support in enabling us to obtain a new Phone 06 355 0022 Phone 06 323 2770 As a charity we need to fundraise to fulfil our budget printer photocopier. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] and keep our services running. 20 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 21

Don’t be a Money Mule Life Without a Car New Zealanders of all ages can unwittingly become Is there Life Without a Car? money mules for international fraudsters, but many of Staying Safe Refresher Courses for Older Drivers those targeted are retirees. You don’t need to leave home to become a money mule, Follow us on facebook since a money mule is anyone who transfers illegally type ‘Manawatu Outreach Service’ acquired money on behalf of a criminal – unknowingly or willingly. Mules are recruited to move money electronically through bank accounts, take it out in cash or buy virtual currency like Bitcoin. What is this course about? Pre Paid Funeral Trust Money mules can be recruited by criminals through This course gives strategies to assist us to keep Some people have funeral insurance but premiums a variety of channels including job websites, dating ourselves and others safer on the roads by: seem to rise as you get older, yet the amount websites, social networking websites and online classifieds. • recognising the effects of adverse driving claimable remains the same. Some have thoughts We provide information about keeping mobile when conditions around us about prepaid funerals but worry funeral prices will As the incidence of scams and fraud increases, so does we are no longer driving. Not driving doesn’t have to • raising awareness about driving behaviour rise with inflation plus there are on-going fees aren’t the number of victims used as money mules. limit our activities or prevent us from enjoying life. • understanding the effects of ageing on driving there? “Many online scams involve asking the victim to receive Adjusting to life without a car doesn’t mean losing • making safer driving decisions money to ‘look after’ and then transfer it to another Andrew Malcolm of Kapiti Coast Funeral Home independence and freedom. • improving driving confidence on busy roads account, usually offshore,” says Bronwyn Groot, the tackled this problem finding a pre-paid fund that has Age Concern New Zealand received a national contract Commission for Financial Capability’s (CFFC) Fraud no fees and all interest goes to the client. Our Life Without a Car course: from NZ Transport Authority (NZTA) for Age Concerns Education Manager. - highlights a range of possibilities to remain mobile to deliver these workshops throughout New Zealand. Sound too good to be true? Its not! “In most cases the money has been scammed from - offers alternative ways of getting about in the The workshop uses material developed by the NZTA Kapiti Coast Funeral Home partnered with BNZ Client someone else and is destined to fund organised crime.” community and also by Age Concern Canterbury. We deliver these Funds, and agreed that neither will charge fees so - suggests many options to keep involved and workshops with the support of the NZ Police. all the funds invested, plus interest, go back to the There are a few things to do if you think you’re a enjoying activities money mule: Course Dates: client. Money is lodged in individual accounts with - gives valuable insights into adapting our lifestyle • Contact your bank immediately April 24th 9.30am to 2.30pm 51 Waldegrave Street, each person’s own IRD number. They don’t even - encourages living positively without driving Palmerston North • Stop all communication with suspected criminals have to be a BNZ client. - Guest speaker Desley Monks, Horizons Regional June 10th 9.30am to 2.30pm venue to be • Stop transferring any money or valuable items Council, she will talk about Total Mobility confirmed. So why not take the onus off your family and arrange • Keep all receipts, contacts and communications, an interest earning no fees pre-paid funeral unique to such as texts, emails Scheme and the new Bee Card for buses For more information and to book a course phone Age Kapiti Coast Funeral Home. or chats Friday 15th May, Age Concern, 51, Waldegrave St., Concern NZ Palmerston North and Districts Branch Inc. • Notify NZ Police Palmerston North 10am to 12.30pm on 06 355 2832 editorial supplied by Kapiti Coast Funeral Home immediately. Wednesday 17th June, Ashurst, 10am to 12.30pm Money mules are a part of venue to be confirmed criminal money laundering Wednesday 24th June, Senior Leisure and Learning operations and there are Centre, 14, Bowen St. Feilding 1pm to 3pm serious consequences Bookings essential as spaces are limited. For more including imprisonment, information and to book: Phone Age Concern NZ negative impacts on credit Palmerston North & Districts Inc. on 06 355 2832 and inability to open bank or email: [email protected] accounts in the future. For more information including how to protect There are no limits to what you can accomplish yourself or those around except the limits to your own thinking. you from becoming a money mule go to www.cffc.org.nz From Super Seniors You may have to fight a battle more than once to Newsletter February 2020 win it. Margaret Thatcher. 22 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AUTUMN 2020 23

Thinking of moving house? Lifetime (or Universal) design. Universal design is • having light switches, socket outlets and door Digital Help Sessions at about making homes that people can live in and handles at easily reached heights. Think of Lifetime Design enjoy regardless of their age, mobility or stage of life. Awapuni Library, Many of the features of universal design can be Some basic principles of universal design that make built into any new home or renovation, saving costly Palmerston access easier include: alterations further down the track.

• having flat access to the main entrance North Resources Do you need some help • having the main floor at entry level • For information on adapting your home for future needs with your phone or • having the kitchen, bathroom and at least one see www.smarterhomes.org.nz sleeping area at entry level (note: the sleeping From www.ageconcern.org.nz computer or other technology? The friendly staff at area could also be used as a study or living area) Awapuni Library are running digital help sessions • ensuring all walkways and doorways are wide in March and April. These are drop-in sessions, enough for wheelchairs or mobility scooters to easily Words of Wisdom so you do not need to book. The library has three computers available for public use. You can also pass through (an 800mm-wide doorway will allow Age is a mind over matter. bring your own device (mobile phone/laptop/ minimum clearance for wheelchairs of 760mm width) If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter. tablet/iPad etc.) There is free internet access (WiFi) • ensuring all rooms are large enough for residents You can’t help getting older, within the Library The library computers have virus to easily move around in but you don’t have to get OLD. protection and firewalls in place. If you are thinking of moving house or renovating • doors opening outwards in small bathroom areas Growing OLD is inevitable, growing UP is optional. your home, it’s a good idea to think about the things • providing grab bars beside toilets Laughter is the medicine of life. Digital Help Sessions take place on the 11th and your home may need for you to be independent and • providing a wet area or 'European' shower (i.e. a Never look down on anybody, 25th March and 8th April from 1–2pm. Awapuni comfortable in later life from the outset so that you shower that drains directly through the floor with unless you are helping them up. Library is located at 96C College St, Palmerston can continue to live there as you grow older or if your no door or 'lip’ that must be stepped over) It’s important to have a twinkle in your wrinkle. North. For more information. phone Awapuni library mobility become impaired. • ensuring door handles are lever-style (which are on 06 356 7634 If you are buying an existing property or looking for a easier to grip and open than doorknobs) new rental property then consider how the home is • providing kitchen benches and other work/storage Application for Membership spaces at the appropriate height adapted to your needs now or to your future. If you Age Concern NZ Palmerston North & Districts Branch Inc. are considering renovating a house or building a new • planning appliance heights to reduce bending or home, it's sensible to make any necessary changes kneeling Mr / Mrs/ Miss / Ms at the start of the project rather than having to make • installing light switches by beds and a telephone Name(s): changes later. outlet by the main bed • ensuring garages and carports are large enough Address: It is good to consider things that will make access for wheelchair access Telephone: easier. Some of these have been identified by Email: STEADY AS YOU GO© Membership Fee from 1st March 2020 to 30th June 2021 Falls prevention exercise for Individual $20 Couple $30 Corporate $100 strength and balance. Horowhenua’s largest and most specialised Donation: Locksmiths, Key Cutters & Engravers - • Ashhurst, 131 Cambridge How to pay: continuing a family tradition since 1988 St, Thursdays 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Internet Banking - You can pay the membership fee directly into our bank account MOBILE LOCKSMITH - AUTOMOTIVE | COMMERCIAL | DOMESTIC • , Palmerston North, Rangiora Account number 03 1522 0158520 00 (Age Concern New Zealand Palmerston North & Districts Branch Inc.) Community Centre, 102, Rangiora Ave. Please add your name as reference and post or email this completed form to us at the address below. Wednesdays 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. Payment by cheque (excluding KiwiBank cheques) – You can send us a cheque with this completed form • Central Palmerston North, City Library, to the address below. Events Room (George St entrance) How would you like to receive the newsletter and other information? Post Email (please circle one). Tuesdays 11a.m. to 12 p.m. Post form to: Age Concern NZ Palmerston North & Districts Branch Inc., P.O. Box 5063, Palmerston North 4441. For more information please phone Age Concern on (06) 355 2832 06 368 8163 To register for one of these groups or for more SHOP 2, LEVIN MALL, 191 OXFORD ST, LEVIN information phone Fern at Age Concern NZ THANK YOU for supporting the work we do. Donations of $5.00 and over are eligible for a tax credit under www.qualitykeys.co.nz Palmerston North & Districts on 06 355 2832 the terms of Section LD1 Of the Income Tax Act 2007. Two great retirement villages to choose from:

78 Queenwood Road, 53 Brooklyn Heights Drive, Levin. Ph 06 368 1850. Palmerston North. Ph 06 355 4665. www.milife.co.nz www.milife.co.nz

Independent retirement living at its best.

All occupation licences for units at the village are secured by a first-ranking mortgage over the village land in favour of the Statutory Supervisor.