Keeping On THE OFFICIAL VOICE OF AGE CONCERN CANTERBURY Vol 93: Autumn 2017

A great start to 2017: social outings programme, Page 14

Phone (03) 366-0903, Fax: (03) 365-0639, Email: [email protected], www.ageconcerncan.org.nz Charities Commission Number: CCC29446 FEBRUARY 2017 2 KEEPING ON FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE A WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT

Happy New Year Scams happen all year round, one In December we restored and to such a high level. and welcome to in particular that we have seen many held our Annual There is now a Pantry Cafe open to 2017. I hope your many cases of in the last year is heat Christmas lunch the public under the management Christmas and pump cleaning. There are several for staff, board of the very experienced Continental New Year week companies that older people have members, honorary Caterers. The refurbishment is was a safe and phoned us about having had them turn life members, amazing. satisfying one. up to clean their heat pump and then volunteers and Did you know that Riccarton House 2017 will be a tell them there is something wrong friends. We had a great gathering has been beautifully restored and is year of continuing growth for Age with it and that it needs replacing. In enjoyed by all. Of special mention open to the public. Concern Canterbury. All of our many of the cases we know about it was the presence of Ahi Allen, a The Art Centre, opposite the services are up and running. has been later proven that this was former staff member and a Pastor Canterbury Museum, is partly open Last year we were fortunate to have not the case. and Age Concern Canterbury’s and an absolute credit to those an intern psychologist working with us, Age Concern Canterbury Cultural Advisor. His welcome to who have been involved with its voluntarily, two days a week. Emma recommends never engaging with our guests, his song and prayer to restoration. The Great Hall with its Hockley provided some one on one any person or company who cold all at this time of year has become a magnificent stained glass window is support, some group work around calls, just turning up and knocking special component of this function. a minor miracle to behold. grief and loss and was a key part of on your door. Never let them in and There was a sad item at our function The Statue of William Rolleston, the health team. We did a survey at ask them to leave. If you need a which was to say farewell to some 4th and last Superintendent of the positive ageing expo and 90% of of our long-serving Age Concern Canterbury 1860-1876, has been trades person, handyman, gardener people surveyed felt it would be useful Canterbury volunteer receptionists. restored to its original position or cleaner – give us a call at Age to have access to psychological Some of our receptionists have outside the Canterbury Museum. Concern Canterbury and we will put support, for a range of issues such given many years of service to our These are a few indicators that things you in touch with someone who you as anxiety and depression, pain, grief organisation and community. They are beginning to reappear with many can rely on. This includes heat pump and loss, and loneliness. Interestingly offered specialised and practical more to follow. cleaners! 70% of people responded that they assistance, support, contact and I do hope you had a happy Keeping On would not know where to seek help if is printed four times a outreach. Christmas and you are all coping they were dealing with one of these year, and is our mode of passing on The Volunteer Receptionists were with everyday life. Do remember issues. Age Concern Canterbury is information, raising and discussing a valued part of the Age Concern you are very welcome to contact Age always a great place to start if you issues facing older people, and Canterbury team. I thank them Concern Canterbury if you have any are unsure about where to get any providing some interesting articles. most sincerely for their time and problems. We can help in so many sort of help or support – if we can’t We always welcome any feedback or commitment - they are very special ways - just contact us on 366 0903. provide it, we’ll put you in touch with suggestions of topics that you think people. I send belated Happy New Year someone who can. Emma has now should be in there. Give us a call with I do hope you have been out to wishes for 2017 to you all from completed her internship and is a your thoughts. check on some of the good things that the staff, volunteers and board registered psychologist. Well done Ngā mihi nui (Kind regards) have been happening as part of the members. Emma and thank you for your support Simon Templeton Earthquake recovery. Do visit Mona Annette Harris of older people in Canterbury. Chief Executive Vale which has been completely President CONTENTS

AGM NOTICE Age Concern Canterbury will hold its AGM on Wednesday, 17th May at 2.00pm at 24 Main North Road, Papanui, Christchurch. The deadline for nominations is 17th April. Contact Simon Templeton, Chief Executive on 366 0903 for more information. Page 5 - Rayleen is sitting pretty Page 7 - Cycling legend still going at 100 strong at 87 Keeping On OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF AGE CONCERN CANTERBURY (INC)

Keeping On is distributed by Age Concern Canterbury to Christchurch Malls, Senior Citizen Clubs and Groups, Libraries, Medical Centres, Rest Homes, Hospitals and Institutions, Housing Complexes and Agencies working with older people and individuals. Keeping On is published quarterly in February, May, August and November each year. Written contributions for consideration can be Page 9 - Sir Bob Charles book Page 13 - Stuart is more than a posted to The Editor, Keeping On at Age Concern Canterbury, next project volunteer driver 24 Main North Road, Papanui, Christchurch 8053 or contact The Editor on: Ph: (03) 366-0903, Fax: (03) 365-0639, or email [email protected]. Page 8 Chimp study shows how hanging out with friends makes The Keeping On Team: Dayl Milne - Editor, David Gee - Journalist, life less stressful. Anna-Marie Hunter - Advertising Representative/Desktop Publisher. Page 12 Ponder this with Brian Priestley. Views and opinions expressed in Keeping On are not necessarily those Page 15 District Commander’s advice. of the Editor or Age Concern Canterbury. Neither does publication of an Page 16 A snapshot of social work with older people. advertisement imply endorsement by Age Concern Canterbury. FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 3 Another year, more cases of online love ending badly for the lovelorn by Emma Reilly Bank customers who meet people as they themselves authorised the that could happen, and that it also • be wary if somebody you don’t online are vulnerable to fraud and payments. shouldn’t have approved the loan. know or have met online asks you for theft if they fall for the wrong person, “A recent complainant met the “We couldn’t uphold either complaint money says Banking Ombudsman Nicola love of his life who said she lived in because firstly, the bank had told him • never accept money into your Sladden. Malaysia. She asked for his help by verbally it would hold the cheque account for subsequent transfer The Banking Ombudsman Scheme depositing a cheque for GBS30,000 proceeds until it could confirm its • don’t give out your password has just released its 2015-16 into his New Zealand bank account. legitimacy, and secondly, the bank’s • pause before you commit to Annual Report and cases involving She told him her bank wouldn’t accept loan application assessment was anything you’re being asked to do increasingly sophisticated online the cheque as she had no permanent satisfactory. and if you can, check the details with fraud and trickery are increasing, 66 address. “The complainant learned the hard somebody you trust bank customers contacting us about “Because he had to wait three way that love online doesn’t always scams by third parties. weeks for it to clear, and she said she • contact your bank immediately “Every year we receive complaints needed the money sooner, he took pay.” if you think you may have been from bank customers duped into out a $10,000 personal loan and sent To keep heart and finances intact scammed. It may be able to reverse transferring money – usually online – it to her via Western Union. online, we recommend the following charges, but probably won’t be if you to people they don’t know, and we’re “The foreign cheque then bounced precautions: authorised the payment yourself. unable to help them because their and he complained to us that his • make sure you know who you’re (Source: Banking Ombudsman bank hasn’t done anything wrong bank hadn’t made it clear to him that dealing with online Scheme). Driving Miss Daisy Outings will add a spark to your week We hope you enjoyed the festive with a lot more than simply driving – they wanted to continue with social so you can live life to the full and season and are looking forward to you to appointments, or getting you activities, meeting people and having enjoy every moment. Remember that a busy fun-filled year ahead. Well, from A to B. Soon after launching our fun. So, we decided to add Outings to many of our franchise owners have it certainly will be if you join us on a service in 2009 we discovered that our service offering, and it is now one fully equipped wheelchair vehicles, Driving Miss Daisy Outing! our clients wanted more than just of our most popular and appreciated and all our vehicles can fit a fold At Driving Miss Daisy we can help the practical service that we offered services. down walker or wheelchair with no If you have an outing that you’d like problems. If you have an Outing to organise we can create a tailor- you’d like us to co-ordinate for you Driving Miss Daisy made experience for you. Perhaps please call us today to discuss – we you might like a trip down memory lane look forward to seeing you soon. or a visit to a particular art exhibition * North Canterbury - Anne-Marie – we’ve got Canterbury covered! or movie. Other quintessential Chellew, outings might be enjoying an ice (03) 312 2936, 021 224 5606. cream at the beach, a walk through a botanic garden or enjoying a local * Redwood - Kerry Trenberth, rugby game. You might even like to (03) 352 4596, 021 318 1733. round out the experience with coffee * Harewood - Lynn Williams and or a meal at a café. Jill Campbell, Many of our clients gather together (03) 358 9466, 021 503 609 a friend or two to share the experience * Riccarton/Selwyn - Janine Kenworthy, – there’s always plenty of fun to be (03) 347 1009 , 021 503 312 had! * St Albans - Tim Loversidge, Driving Miss Daisy also regularly (03) 423 9831, 021 676 412 organises Outings for individuals to * Cashmere - Vickie Lamb join – if you’re interested in hearing (03) 423 9778, 021 950 959 about our upcoming Outings we’d * Wigram - Mary McDermott Keep your independence and freedom love to hear from you. You’ll have a (03) 325 7153, 021 503 083 with our safe, reliable companion wonderful time and these Outings are * Ashburton - Christine Sandrey driving service. a fantastic way to meet new people. (03) 307 7237, 021 503 343 We can drive and accompany you anywhere: Driving Miss Daisy is committed to * Timaru - Sandi Suter helping our clients get out and about, (03) 683 1073, 021 503 398 A • Shopping trips • Medical and personal appointments • Social outings, meetings, church SHOPRIDER • Airport drop-offs and pick ups “Simply the Best” Total Mobility cards accepted in most Canterbury areas, and an SPECIALS ACC approved provider. Bookings are essential – call today and make your next outing

a pleasure! C004218 AC Canterbury No Matter What You Have North Canterbury Ph: (03) 312 2936 Redwood Ph: (03) 352 4596 Been Offered elsewhere , We Harewood Ph: (03) 358 9466 Will Save You Money Riccarton/Selwyn Ph: (03) 347 1009 Unbeatable Price & Quality WHEELCHAIR SCOOTER St Albans Ph: (03) 423 9831 SALES & SERVICE Make your FREE Appointment at: Cashmere Ph: (03) 423 9778 Variety of new and used scooters, Hearing True wheelchairs and walkers Wigram Ph: (03) 325 7153 Contact: Gerald & Christine Ashburton Ph: (03) 307 7237 304 Papanui Road 26 Years of friendly service Timaru Ph: (03) 683 1073 Christchurch with a guarantee www.drivingmissdaisy.co.nz Ph (03) 972 5713 Phone 0800 23 10 23 [email protected] or 383 1364 FEBRUARY 2017 4 KEEPING ON Health and independence starts at home by Emily Coffey, Marketing and Communications Manager, Community Energy Action

Age Concern Canterbury and Both CEA and Age Concern people, our housing stock is often not beyond insulation and heating to Community Energy Action (CEA) recognise the importance of healthy, suited to keeping them warm, and we keep people warm and healthy in have been working closely together comfortable housing on the health know that has a very negative impact their homes. The Curtain Bank is to help keep the homes of our more and wellbeing of elderly residents in on their health,” he said. Age Concern a volunteer-assisted service that senior citizens healthy and warm for the community. Caroline Shone, CE Canterbury will continue to work provides recycled, lined curtains to many years. Last winter, our joint of CEA says “it is always very sad with CEA and Simon encourages anyone in need. We always welcome efforts enabled over 100 elderly when we find out about our senior every older person to contact either new volunteers to help with folding, residents to have insulation and/or community members being sick, or agency, before winter is upon us, if measuring and sorting curtains in our heating installed in their homes at not being able to live in their own home heating is an issue. lovely chatty sewing rooms. It is a no cost. Through this jointly funded homes because they are so cold and CEA also offers you completely free great way to keep social while doing project, many residents have said damp. advice about how to keep warm, over a good deed for the community. If you that they are now able to stay in their It is even more upsetting when the phone or by email. If you have would like to volunteer, please phone homes over winter, without worrying those people are hospitalised due any questions about how to use your Gayle on 03 374 7225. about their independence, which is to cold related illnesses. However, heating source, keep your power For more information or to get help, fantastic. through our interventions we can help bills down, reduce condensation please phone 03 374 7222 / 0800 Ellen from Avondale, 89, had ensure that our senior community and mould, or anything else energy 438 9276, visit www.cea.co.nz, or underfloor insulation and a new heat members live in warm, dry and related, please give us a call on 0800 email [email protected]. pump installed fully funded by the healthy environments which prevent 438 9276. programme. She says that, before, cold related illnesses. Volunteering Opportunity she found the house “very cold, We urge anyone who has struggled CEA provides a number of services especially when you are sitting a lot”, through this last winter to get in touch and says she used to stay in bed a lot with us or Age Concern now, whether Non perishable food items are to try to keep warm. Afterward was a you live in rental accommodation or different story; “Oh boy it is lovely and own your own home. We can help it wanted to help sustain older people warm,” she says. “I’m not so creaky be a warmer, worry free winter.” over the cold winter months. on the old joints anymore, it’s easier Simon Templeton, CEO of Age to get out of bed, and I look forward Concern Canterbury, said it has been Please drop items in to Age Concern most emphatically to getting together great working with CEA to improve the Canterbury, 24 Main North Road, with the old ladies and having a chin- lives of older people. “We know this Papanui, Christchurch. wag!” is such a huge issue for many older Thank you for thinking of those we work with. AGE CONCERN CANTERBURY MEMBERSHIP

I would like to become (please tick one box): An individual member ($20 per person, $30 per couple) A corporate member ($50 per business) A friend ($10 per person, $20 per couple) I would like to subscribe to the Keeping On newspaper, delivered quarterly, for a cost of $15.00. (Please tick box) Moving into Donations help us to continue to promote the welfare of older people in Canterbury and are also welcomed. Donations of $5.00 or more can qualify for a tax credit. a retirement

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Street Address: Whether it’s your furniture, TV, phone or even your watch or favourite piece Suburb: of jewellery, if your belongings are worth $10,000 or less AMI can help City: Postcode: protect them at a great price.^ Phone No.: Ask about our new $26 advanced contents cover today. Email: Just visit ami.co.nz/contact to find your Signed: local AMI store, or call 0800 100 200. Please send to The Chief Executive, Age Concern Canterbury *For the first year. Inc, 24 Main North Road, Papanui. CHRISTCHURCH 8053. ^Refers to the combined value of your belongings, not the value per item. Normal underwriting criteria applies. FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 5 Sir Bob’s book next project

A book about the life and times of New Zealand’s foremost golfer, Sir Bob Charles, will be published this year. It is being written by a golfing friend who lives in the same street as Sir Bob. “It’s a work in progress. I hope it won’t be too boring. I have to try hard to remember things these days,” he says. Sir Bob Charles won the round at the And what an illustrious and long Kaiapoi Golf Club on 73 with the juniors golfing career he has to cover. It hard on his heels. began in the North Island in 1936 (Photo courtesy of David Walker, Fairfax) where his father was a school golfer to make a cut on the European teacher. After leaving school Sir Bob Tour at the Michael Hill New Zealand worked as a bank teller. He won the Open. He shot a 68 in the second New Zealand Open in 1954, as an round, beating his age by three 18-year-old amateur. strokes. He would go on to finish in a He decided to hone his skills as tie for 23rd place. an amateur first, and remained at His move to the Senior PGA Tour the bank for six more years. He Recently Sir Bob Charles went to the Kaiapoi Golf Club for a round of golf with (now the Champions Tour) was very represented New Zealand several some of the Club’s up and coming juniors. A 15 year old, Mitchell Berry (right) lucrative and successful with 23 titles; times in international amateur stole the show with a hole in one off the first tee. and in three years 1988, 1989 and tournaments during this period. (Photo courtesy of David Walker, Fairfax NZ). 1993, he recorded the lowest scoring Sir Bob turned professional in event won by a left-handed golfer. Tour victories, his win in the 1969 average. 1960 and the next year won the Later that year he won the Open World Matchplay Championship was He finished second on the European New Zealand PGA Championship Championship at Royal Lytham and considered one of his best. He won Seniors Tour’s 2007 Wentworth and soon after went overseas to St. Annes. After four rounds (68- the Senior British Open 30 years Senior Masters at the age of 71. the European and North American 72-66-71) his 277 was level with after winning his British Open title. He was the first left-hander to win circuits. American Phil Rodgers. Sir Bob won He, along with Michael Campbell, are a major, but also the first lefty to be In 1963, he won his first PGA the 36-hole playoff by eight shots. the only two New Zealanders to win a inducted into the World Golf Hall of Tour event in the United States, the He won about 80 tournaments men’s major golf championship. Fame, in the veterans’ category. Houston Classic, the first PGA Tour around the world. As well as his PGA In 2007 Sir Bob became the oldest Continued on page 6.

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Continued from page 5. from my parents.” In 2010, Sir Bob announced that He certainly does that. Besides golf Sir Bob and Lady (Verity) Charles he would retire from golf, stating he loves working on his Oxford farm. have two children, David (US) and that he was “74 years old, travelling He’s owned it for more than 40 years Beverley (UK) and four grandchildren. this world for 50 years, and it’s time and runs sheep and deer and, after In the NZ winter Sir Bob and Lady to slow down and spend more time finding water, now has crops. He tries Charles travel to the northern on my farm in New Zealand with my to be there three times a week. hemisphere for the warmer weather family”. He has a manager but Sir Bob has and to see family. He is a sporting hero in New Zealand, the house grounds to look after. He believes in old-fashioned values not only for his achievements but also Back at Clearwater, he practises and admits that he is a traditionalist. for his demeanour and philanthropy three times a week hitting about 50 “I believe in spare the rod and spoil regarding junior golfers. He was balls a session. Further, Sir Bob has a the child. I was brought up where also a role model world-wide for left- treadmill to walk on “at a brisk pace. I children were not heard and silence handed golfers. like to do 20 minutes each morning”. was golden. All that is still in the back Sir Bob still makes scores under He says he believes in moderation of mind. I’m just old-fashioned. But his age and becomes annoyed if he in every facet of life. “I am never one I think the world would be a better fails to do so. In recent months he to indulge myself in anything,” he place if we followed those ideas scored 71 at the Russley course: “I says. more,” he says. was quite proud of that.” He officially “On reflection I think, if I had worked Sir Bob Charles, aged 76, shoots 66 on * Sir Bob’s handicap is 1 – the stopped competing about three years harder, I could have enjoyed more European senior tour. same as his son David, who is a golf ago, but had started to ease off five success. But I am very happy with (Photo courtesy of Phil Inglis) director of tournaments. years ago. my successes. You could say ‘I did genes. I keep busy and eat the right * Sir Bob has published three books Recently he had shoulder trouble it my way’.” food. Moderation again. I have my of instructions on improving golf. and had to rest for up to 10 days. His diet, too, was one of moderation. venison and lamb as my two staple * He doesn’t think Lydia Ko needs This upset his routine but he was “Fortunately I was born with good red meats,” he says. a coach as she is so good at the philosophical about it as he knew he genes. I never had a weight problem. Sir Bob likes all ball sports. “It might game. would soon be back on the Clearwater In the last 30 years I have been very surprise you but at the farm we have * He admires the dedication and course. He had few injuries in his conscious of nutrition. a tennis court, croquet, billiards and discipline of Asian parents who bring career. “My longevity is all to do with good table tennis. I inherit that interest golf to their children. “I like to get out as often as possible. Especially on fine days. I’m a fine- A new kid on the block - Poppy Funerals weather golfer. I enjoy the warm weather. After a 50-year long career I now get to pick my days,” he says. 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Jointly some stress away from an already after hours or call out charges and Some of the courses this term owned by funeral director Jasmin stressful, emotional period. all their packages include GST and a include, Tai chi, Printmaking, Teague and her parents, Matt and “Being locally and family owned newspaper notice. Singing for Pleasure, Activism and Sue, Poppy Funerals wants to offer means we don’t have to meet targets They offer both Cremation and Christchurch’s Activist Movements families something a little more. set by multinational corporate head Burial services, have male and female and The Lift Library with Juliet “As funeral directors, we are not offices. We can focus on what directors and are available 24/7. Adams. here to ‘take over’ when a loved one matters, being there to support For more information please call Please see our website, email or passes away, we are here to assist families in their time of greatest 0800 92 00 99 or check out their call if you would like to know more families through this difficult time. need, and ensure their loved one website www.poppyfunerals.co.nz. information. The general Election date has now been announced, it is the CWEA’s goal to help provide informative discussion about political parties policies so watch this space.

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59 Gloucester Street. Phone: 366 0285 Email: [email protected] www.cwea.org.nz facebook.com/canterburywea FEBRUARY 20217 KEEPING ON 7 Living cycling legend still going strong at 87

He’s been described as a living “I have helped many people into cycling legend and is still going strong cycling and the first thing I tell them is at 87. to get to like cycling for cycling’s sake Graeme Milner (known as Mick and enjoy it.” to his many friends) was born to a cycling father in 1930, a year of the The groups range in age from 60 to Depression. Dad was a shoe factory Graeme’s 87. worker and was also a competitive His memories of his travels are road cyclist with the Papanui club. His many but he likes to tell of the time brother Hughie was a track cyclist. he arrived in the UK and made his So Graeme was soon on a bike. He way to view Big Ben at the House of attended Phillipstown, Somerfield, Commons. It was a culmination of and Technical College before he his dreams when he listened on his started an apprenticeship in plumbing. crystal set to broadcasts from Britain He was in the trade for 30 years and as a boy. the job allowed him time to compete in cycle races. That one leads to the time he was At 16, Graeme won his first race but Graeme Milner, left, with Graham White at a Tai Tapu Cafe to help in Switzerland and ended up at a lake he realised he was not a sprinter. So Graham White celebrate his 90th birthday. where women were bare breasted. “I he quickly settled into the longer-run was so busy gawking I hit a rubbish races – and did well. bin. And several topless females The plumber’s shop was across the rushed over to help me.” road from the shop of Phil O’Shea, Another time he crashed was who was described as NZ’s greatest just following the September 2010 cyclist. “I ended up spending some earthquake. A swerving car hit him time at Phil’s place as you can and sent him to hospital. A policeman imagine. He said he would train me. arrived at his home with his bike on But he added that I had to do just what he said.” Phil was then in his his shoulder. Graeme’s wife, Kitty, 70s. says: “He said if Graeme was finished He won his first big road race at 18 with the bike he would like it.” and he was recognised as a good hill He didn’t get it and Graeme was climber. By the 1960s, when Graeme soon back in the saddle. was in his 30s, he was at the peak of More details of Graeme’s exploits his career and picking up first places are in Roy Sinclair’s book, Pedal The Magpies head off to Tai Tapu, their regular route. and records. At one time he held Power. It was in this book that Graeme three national titles. Magpies group which he formed with The group grew with the upsurge was dubbed a living legend. He had established his reputation Roy Pemberton. in the interest in cycling. Now groups Lately he has been power walking as a champion middle-distance “We would go out on Tuesdays for (fast, medium and slow) go out on for his health but nothing, it seems, cyclist. His motto was “The will to rides around the bays but we found Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays win and serious training.” In addition it was getting too difficult as we grew from Cashmere for various runs to Tai will keep him off his bike. And he is to his many records at home he also older. So the Magpies were formed,” Tapu where they all come together always looking for new recruits for competed overseas in Australia, he says. for coffee. the Magpies. Europe and the UK. As he aged he took to touring and today he is out at least three times a week with the Are you putting it off? You are not alone in planning your move to a Need Advice? Retirement Village. * Retirement villages * Asset protection You need time to get comfortable with the idea. * Wills & Trusts BUT so many things to sort, and how to do it? * Enduring powers of attorney Let me help you with your BIG decision. * Property sales and purchases * Relationship property issues Call me for a professional home appraisal & I’ll help you work things out, plus I have a large Ph: 366-5169 (Leo Steel) network of people who can help.

Home visits at no extra charge Franco Let’s have a cuppa. “You make the tea and I’ll bring the biscuits!” We are here to assist you in Dal Din all legal matters 0274 842 739 STEEL & CO [email protected] BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS COWDY & CO 03 355 6555 111 BEALEY AVENUE, CHRISTCHURCH REAA 2008 FEBRUARY 2017 8 KEEPING ON Chimp study shows how hanging out with friends makes life less stressful by Ben Garrod, Fellow, Animal and Environmental Biology, Anglia Ruskin University

Whether offering us consolation after the death of that, perhaps unsurprisingly, they tended to a loved one or commiseration when our team loses be more stressed when they encountered (or yet again, our social relationships are invaluable thought they had encountered) animals from other for helping us lead happier, less stressful lives. groups. But the research also showed that the And humans aren’t alone in this respect. The role social relationships appeared to limit stress all the of social interactions and bonds in reducing stress time, not just in the most stressful situations. This has been studied in many species, from rats to suggests it is important for chimps to have “bond elephants. partners” with whom they regularly engage in But the jury is still out on how friends help us friendly and co-operative behaviour and are rarely to cope with stress at a physiological level. Now aggressive toward. new research into the role of relationships among It appears that both in and out of stressful chimpanzees suggests that friends don’t just create situations, the daily presence of bond partners a “social buffer” by helping us during stressful times. actually regulates the system that manages the They may also reduce our overall stress levels just body’s hormones, reducing an individual’s overall by being present in our lives, regulating the way stress. While active support of a bond partner our bodies manage stress-indicating hormones. The researchers watched wild chimpanzees reduces glucocorticoid levels the most, their mere Stress has been explored extensively in numerous at a long-established Ugandan field site (Sonso) presence also leads to less stress. non-human primates, including chimpanzees, over two years, noting a range of aggressive and Although not proven in this study, the authors macaques and baboons, and we know it can be affiliative social interactions. This included times believe that oxytocin (often referred to as the “love devastating. For example, high stress levels in when the animals were resting, grooming each hormone”) may be responsible for this regulation. baboons can cause gastrointestinal ulcers and other and when they saw or heard members of More generally, this hormone balance may also even early death. Strong social bonds appear to other chimp groups. The researchers measured help improve the immune system, cardio function, act as a buffer against the worst consequences the chimps’ stress levels by extensively collecting fertility, mood and even cognition. of stress. There are broad health benefits to this, urine samples to test for the presence of It is easy to mentally replace the chimpanzees in for instance a surprising increase in infant survival glucocorticoids. this study with humans, and use the term “friends” among less-stressed baboon mothers. instead of “bond partners”. We all identify that hard - The research also showed that the When it comes to what’s happening inside the times are easier with a friendly shoulder to cry on. body, we know that a good social environment social relationships appeared to Even in a day-to-day context, our lives are that little correlates with a drop in stress-indicating hormones limit stress all the time, not just in bit brighter when we know our friends are there. such as glucocorticoids. But we don’t know exactly the most stressful situations. - But this paper reveals that the construction and how it happens. To create a potentially stressful situation, an maintenance of such close social bonds with Social buffer experienced field assistant waited until small groups others has significant, measurable benefits for the A newly-published article in Nature of the chimps were near their territory borders and physical and mental well-being of chimpanzees, Communications looks into two possible then drummed on the large root buttresses of and is regulated at a physiological level. Not only mechanisms behind the way social bonds act as a trees. This replicated the drumming sounds chimps could this help further our understanding of the buffer to stress in chimpanzees. The researchers evolution of human social behaviour, but it may looked at two contrasting theories: whether “bond make to communicate within and between social partners” (the chimpanzee equivalent of friends) groups. The aim was to see how these drumming also influence the way we face and tackle both just make particularly stressful times less so, or encounters were perceived by individual chimps physical illnesses and mental health problems whether the effects of this partnership are felt depending on their social support. across human communities. throughout the day. The hormone levels in the chimps’ urine showed Source: The Conversation.com).

Looking for time to enjoy the tranquility of Hagley Park? Bishopspark Retirement Village is right across the road. Just want to know there is help when you need it? Both our care homes offer Megan Woods that…and so much more. MP for Wigram

Constituents needing assistance or wanting an appointment are invited to contact me on:

[email protected] Bishopspark (03) 977 2320 338 6347 Fitzgerald (03) 982 2165 www.anglicanliving.org.nz labour.org.nz Authorised by Megan Woods MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 9 Rayleen is sitting pretty at 100

She has lived in her house for 60 Street, Sydenham, and then moved years and last month celebrated her to Mrs Spicer’s present house. For a 100th birthday there. She sees no period she made men’s shirts. reason to think about moving. Alf retired the day he turned 60 and Rayleen Spicer and her husband, they enjoyed retirement for some Alf, moved into the “spec” house in years before Alf’s death. Her day is Spreydon not long after they arrived now ordered and begins about 8am in Christchurch. when she listens to the radio for an Mrs Spicer once visited a retirement hour or so. home and did not like seeing old Nurse Maude staff help with people sitting around, most of them asleep. “I decided then my house dressing (and undressing about 6- was good enough for me,” she says. 7.30pm) and she is in bed by 10- She has help with dressing and 11pm. Mrs Spicer prepares her three undressing and with the garden meals. Breakfast at 9am is usually (“I gave it away when I kept falling porridge. over”). Her family also help in various She has the radio on most of the ways, mostly with transport, although day but while she likes to watch the she drove until she was 93. news on TV, she admits she usually Her birthday was celebrated by her sleeps through it. She likes to see family with the traditional cards from Raylene Spicer celebrates 100 years with her sisters. From left: Mavis Long (97), ‘Home and Away’ and ‘Coronation Rayleen (100) and Lena Green (93). the Queen and the Prime Minister. Street’. She had a total of 65 cards. She gets out regularly, visiting a She was born in Ashburton and Salvation Army community group attended Hampstead School until once a month and another group she was 14. On leaving she worked which arose out of Mrs Spicer’s in the local woollen mills, putting wool on skeins ready for weaving. involvement with a Senior Citizens’ She was the eldest of five children Club. While numbers dwindled the (two brothers) and her two surviving group continued to meet for “a coffee sisters are 98 and 94 this year. and a chat”. Fifteen members get Outside of work Mrs Spicer did “a together once a month. lot of needlework”, dancing and “I Arthritis causes her pain in her learnt to play the piano as we had to fingers, knees and feet. She does amuse ourselves in those days.” not complain but points out her real One childhood incident Mrs Spicer problem is that every task these days remembers well. “We lived over the take three times as long as it used road from the Oakhurst Hospital and to. at times we played on the veranda Are there good things about being and I remember we used to get old? –Not really. It just takes so much nurses coming over to tell us to longer to do anything. quieten down as we were disturbing Rayleen with her great grandchildren. From left: Jackson (11), Levi (3 months), What is it like living on your own? the patients.” Marrisa (12), Rayleen (100), Nevaeh (10) and Elijah (2). – Lonely. At 27 she married an Ashburton Do you think about death? painter and they had a son, Kevin. Now got a call to return to the mills to help Later married, the Spicers lived in – No. How would you like to be Mrs Spicer has three grandchildren the war effort. Instead she headed to Tinwald, and after five years they and six great-grandchildren. friends at Loburn, North Canterbury, moved to Christchurch for Alf to find remembered? – I would have to think “When the war started Mrs Spicer to pick fruit. more work. They lived in Carlyle long about that.

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444 Durham Street North Office hours: needs. 444St Albans, Durham CHRISTCHURCH Street North 9 AM –Office 5:00 PM Hours: (M through F) St2 xAlbans. 2 Bedroom CHRISTCHURCH Apartments Phone:-9.00AM 03 372 9224- 5.00PM (M through F) Please call us or visit our website 1 bedroom Apartment Phone: 03 372 9224 0800 66 44 22 Currently available for rent. Email:- [email protected] currently for rent Email: [email protected] for more information. www.careconcall.co.nz FEBRUARY 2017 10 KEEPING ON Is lifelong learning a reality? Jeffrey Paparoa reflects on 2016

by Jeffrey Paparoa Holman Lifelong Learning Co-ordinator, College of Arts, University of Canterbury Midway through 2015, it was of the course cost for each paper her experience studying philosophy decided by senior members of the undertaken in the first year of return “100%...it is fascinating”. She found College of Arts at the University of to, or beginning study. This meant there was no problem with an age Canterbury to make a concerted that the $700 course fee for each gap, “the younger people were effort to attract mature students back subject paper was halved, making fascinated with me. I felt like I was to study, after numbers had fallen it more accessible for those with a this magnet”. She’s coming back for steeply in the wake of the earthquake fixed income. Any one over twenty more next year. sequence which hit the city from and a New Zealand citizen was able Anyone who would like to September 2010 onward. All student to enrol, the only stipulations being follow Deborah’s example, who is enrolments fell in the immediate that you must not have been enrolled encouraged by her story, is welcome aftermath, the new academic year for study in the previous five years to contact me using the details at of 2011, but as they gradually picked and the discount would only apply in Jeffrey Paparoa Holman the end of this article. You are only up in the next three years, mature the first year of enrolment. invisible if you choose to be invisible. enrolments stayed low. front an outreach aimed at contacting I assisted a number of the new We have so much to offer and study This was hardly surprising, given enrolments with meetings on campus mature students in the 55+ age later in life is nothing to be nervous the disruption and the other concerns group and especially 65+ retirees, and introductions to the appropriate about. Ageism is a function of foisted on homeowners, hassles superannuitants like me. I held an advisors; follow-ups during the year ignorance; knowledge empowers us with EQC and insurance companies Adjunct position in the College and returned a positive response, despite to resist it, both internally (our own proving a test for many of our while no longer actively employed the challenges of online enrolment images of decline) and externally citizens. Nevertheless, it was felt that in teaching, I was involved in the and a more digital-based online it was time to send a message to the life of the university as a writer and learning environment. Compared (behaviours of our juniors that community that the university was up researcher. to my own experience back in the patronise or infantilise us). The writer and running in spite of the pressures Using community networks – such 1970s, students may now access all of Ecclesiastes tells us that a mature involved in the rebuild, and that as Age Concern Canterbury – and manner of support to assist them with human life is like a barn full of grain, mature students and retirees were reaching out through newspaper any study-related or personal issue. rich and ready to succour many – and welcome. advertising and other media, along In a recent Press article, Older, that means you. As a late-life student who had with talking to interested parties, Wiser and More Productive (see link http:www.stuff.co.nz/ returned to study at the age of fifty we managed to interest up to ten below), Philip Matthews interviewed national/8674345/older-wiser-more- and gone on to graduate with a PhD students initially, to enrol in 2016 a number of this year’s Lifelong productive-the-realities-of-ageing- in Māori and Indigenous Studies, it and take advantage of the College Learning students, one of whom, in-new zealand. To talk with Jeffrey was felt I might be a a good choice to Award, a scheme which rebates half Deborah Watson (59), recommended phone 366 7001. Ext 7643. Greater independence in your own home

Nurse Maude’s Health & Mobility Maude, “so we were delighted to most, that access to these products microwave at home. Shop in Wairakei Road has long been open the doors to our second shop and this equipment, backed by The staff at Nurse Maude’s Health the go to shop for those who need last year.” experienced staff and advice, goes a & Mobility Shops work closely with specialised products that allow them Customers now have three options long way toward people maintaining Nurse Maude’s nurses and suppliers to live as independently as possible for their health and mobility needs, the that independence. to make sure the expertise and in their own home. Wairakei Road shop, our Rangiora Nurse Maude’s Health & Mobility support customers may need is Now there’s another option for shop and Maude’s Online at www. Shops in Wairakei Road and High readily available. people living in North Canterbury nursemaudeshop.org.nz Street Rangiora and Maude’s Online Advice on the best products, and with Nurse Maude’s second Health & Being able to hire and buy specialist at www.nursemaudeshop.org.nz are Mobility Shop open in Rangiora in the equipment and supplies is a large all specifically designed to make that their use, for your needs is always High Street opposite the BNZ. part of people being able to retain happen and include a wide range of available at the Health & Mobility “We’ve been hearing a lot of people independence in their own home. equipment and products, including Shops which are open 9am to 4.30pm say that it was about time we headed With a long history of caring for specialised incontinence products Monday to Friday or 24 hours a day, out this way,” says Sue Bramwell, people in the community Nurse and a range of pre-prepared frozen seven days a week when you shop general manager marketing at Nurse Maude understands, better than meals that can be heated in the online. A FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 11 Be involved in the things you enjoy by Ruth Dyson, Labour’s Senior Citizens’ Spokesperson Welcome to 2017! It’s been a year younger generations and keeps the challenge we face in New Zealand The whole point of the photo ID was of lots of wind, not a lot of sun, and older person engaged, and both is social isolation – more commonly for it to be used as identification. It’s a whirlwind in political activity, with being and feeling worthwhile. known as loneliness. not the biggest issue in the world but Prime Minister John Key resigning But not everyone is able or wants More people living longer is it’s one I want to change! and President Donald Trump being to continue in the paid workforce as fantastic, but many of those people elected. And it’s election year so they get older. Many older people are living alone and sadly, many don’t we can expect the activity to be want to enjoy their retirement years in have family members who want to, or Ruth Dyson continuous! I hope that everyone different ways. The key to remaining are able to visit regularly. MP for Port Hills has had a good Christmas and New happy and healthy is to be involved So why not make that a New Year’s For advice and information Year and been able to spend time in things you enjoy and to keep resolution? If you are feeling a bit contact my electorate office: with friends and family and that the active. A photo in that same edition isolated or lonely, think what would 642 Ferry Road, Woolston year ahead will be good to you. I mentioned, featured a group of make your eyes light up. It might be 376 4512 In the last edition of Keeping On, people walking in Barnett Park. Their bridge or sharing books or walking. [email protected] there was a really interesting story faces were beaming and smiling (and Maybe tennis or bowls. PO Box 19661, Christchurch 8241 about Neil Roberts. I often reflect on I think they were at the end of the walk Or if you are a people person, you the changing nature of our society – so they must be quite fit as well). might want to share your time with we have moved a long way from the When I looked at that photo, I someone who could do with the gold watch at 65 and then a lifetime thought the key to those smiling faces company (go through Age Concern living on superannuation and savings. was the companionship gained from to keep everyone safe). More and more people now continue that walking group. It is so critical A final point. I am frustrated that, in to work well into their 70s and beyond. for everyone to have some company some cases, older people cannot use

That’s a great thing if people are able – someone to talk to, to listen to, and their SuperGold Card with a photo ID Authorised by Ruth Dyson 642 Ferry Road, Woolston to do it. It passes on experience to to share a laugh or a cry. The biggest as a proper means of identification. Serious consideration for sunset relationships A relationship later in life can put a This is something you should important that you seek good advice Agreements and family law. welcome bounce back in your step discuss together in the early stages from a team who understand how Phone Fleur McDonald on 03 352 but before you step into a potential of your relationship so both parties this area of law may impact on you 2293 to arrange an appointment with legal quagmire, there are some understand and agree on what will and your legal requirements. important matters you should give happen should the worst come to At Harmans we have experience a member of our Family Law Team to serious consideration to. pass. dealing with Contracting Out discuss your needs. A Under the Property (Relationships) In New Zealand, these written Act 1976, a qualifying de facto agreements are called Contracting relationship is defined as being a Out Agreements (the “Agreement”) relationship of three years or more. and must be drafted and executed There are various factors that will with assistance from your lawyer. determine whether you are in a You and your partner must see and relationship or not. You should be be advised by different lawyers. This aware that actually living together ensures that both parties get sound and physical intimacy may not be advice and understand exactly what necessary to qualify your relationship is contained in the Agreement before under the Act. you sign it. Protecting If your relationship does qualify An Agreement will also ensure that under the Act, the start point for the there is no misunderstanding on sharing of relationship assets is 50/50. what you both want to happen after you through That may not be what either of you you die. want or intend so it may be worthwhile You should be aware however, that all stages for you and your partner to consider you may need to update your Will so entering into a written agreement to that the terms and conditions of your determine how assets will be dealt Agreement are reflected in your Will. of life with should your relationship end. As with all areas of law, it is ‘Sunset Relationships’ Life is full of ups and downs, and changing circumstances can have a major impact on your financial position. Fleur McDonald raises some interesting points in the article ‘Sunset Relationships’. The Seniors Team at Harmans specialises in legal issues relating to seniors. Our friendly team offers practical advice in plain English so you have peace Hear Fleur discuss the issues here at of mind and feel confident in making decisions that are right for you and Age Concern Canterbury, your family. 24 Main North Road, Papanui on Our Seniors Team is conveniently located in our Papanui office. If you can’t Monday, 1 May 2017 at 1.00pm. get to us, we offer a Home Visit Service, so we can come to you. Light refreshments will follow the discussion. We’re here to help you through all stages of life. We specialise in: • Wills • Funeral Trusts To book your place or for further information please • Trusts • Occupation Right Agreements phone Age Concern Canterbury on 366 0903. • Enduring Powers of Attorney • Estate Planning • Rest Home Subsidies • Asset Protection

Contact Fleur McDonald P (03) 352 2293 E [email protected] A 485 Papanui Road, Christchurch www.harmans.co.nz FEBRUARY 2017 12 KEEPING ON Ponder This with Brian Priestley

Years ago one of our daughters Here are volunteers scaling I sit here, on a perfect spring the people who once lived here, or appeared to believe I was mountain peaks to blow up morning, watching the world pass. perhaps scored the winning goal in a fan of Charles Dickens. heavy water installations, Beneath our window is a small lawn some match, or toured with the first At Christmas time a book or facing almost certain and beyond that a car park which All Blacks, or played for people’s by, or about, Dickens death to kill a Nazi leader, will soon be partly hidden by trees delight. Often the past seems to be always seemed to turn or devising a new way to and bushes planted not long ago. a book which nobody has tried to up. The odd thing is that I kill U-boats, or turning Beyond again, two great machines - write, or preserve. Of course there doubt whether I have read backyard handymen into one yellow and one a sort of orange are good local historians but how can a Dickens novel since killers. Giles Milton has – are busy constructing the wooden they cope with the details? leaving school and I can’t written a surprising and skeleton of a biggish building which As I pointed out a while ago, there say I admire the man. intriguing new book which we know nothing about. Is it to be an is a plaque not far from our home in Perhaps Vera or nobody interested in war office, or homes, or shops or what? memory of a family who helped to somebody said a word. history will want to miss. The sure thing is, that as it grows, so pioneer vegetable growing in the area. Anyway Dickens suddenly As a youth, I and two it will wipe out our view of even more Don’t we need much more of that kind stopped and was replaced by books I other rather young soldiers, walked of the park behind it, with its scatter of thing? Surely it must be possible actually liked. An example was Lynne long distances carrying a weapon of woodland and some (are they to devise ways of commemorating Olson’s fine work ‘Citizens of London’ we knew little about. It seemed very hockey?) goal posts? Occasionally local achievement, from an overseas a book about three well- known heavy. We never actually fired it with somebody walks across the park. university scholarship to the winning Americans who backed Britain during a live bomb, but having read this They often seem to come from the goal in the big game, to the birth of the Blitz. Highly readable stuff. book I now know it was capable of newly enlarged highway on the far a genius or a great person, or even But now our daughter has excelled taking out the biggest German tank side which carries strings of traffic the designer of small, but attractive herself and come up with a smash hit there was. I wish they had told us - I during the day. I had never heard of, ‘The Ministry am sure the PIAT (Projector Infantry In the months we have lived here, plaques which could add interest to of Ungentlemanly Warfare’, which Anti Tank) would have seemed much I do not think we have ever seen a building project or a landscape? is subtitled ‘Churchill’s Mavericks lighter at the time! anybody playing hockey, or any Something which would tell people Plotting Hitler’s Defeat’. Here are Meanwhile, for anyone interested in other game, in the park. Whoever living in these new houses, “People the secret agents, the dirty tricks war history it is a tremendous read. I moves into the new houses, I dare who mattered, and who did things, brigades. They often horrified have several friends waiting to borrow say, will know virtually nothing about lived here before you.” professional soldiers but Winston my copy after Vera has lapped up the delighted in them. last word. The truth is I am not the sort of man who should be allowed a walking Odd people Americans! Texans are particularly strange. When we visited stick. Where sticks are concerned, I some years ago, our hosts in Austin seemed eager to take the credit for am a public nuisance. I own a shiny, winning the war. When I raised my eyebrow at the idea that the American GI respectable, black stick which I keep was the finest fighting man in the world it was taken as a hostile act. And how leaving in places. For some people strange to be at a college football game where nobody (except us) clapped this seems to be funny. the opposition! But consider the scores of options. We were there to compare the big Texas journalism school with our much You can leave a stick leaning against smaller effort here. I thought we were better and much of the reason lay in the wall, or the table top, or the back soul in torment she rode in to the the quality of the students. The Texans hardly ever looked overseas - or of a chair, (your own or somebody rescue. What she bought me was a outside Texas - for a job. “I grew up supporting the Dallas Cowboys and I else’s) or by the hatstand. There small, triangular thingamajig which want to write about them until I die,” said one. are a thousand places where sticks By contrast, many of our Kiwi students had already worked abroad before sort of clips on the shaft of the stick. It coming to us. One Texas graduate came to us for a visit, expecting, I think, to can lurk. In a world which contains means one can lean the stick so that be treated with some awe. When she announced her home town, one of our so many crooks, terrorists, awful it protrudes against (or above) tables, students said, “I spent five months there working in the post office.” politicians and idiots, why should we bookcases, chairs etc. No more But we had a very pleasant time in the north-east. Some of them had waste our time looking for sticks? It scrambling about among people’s actually heard of New Zealand! can turn out that we left the wretched legs to a chorus of derisive laughter. thing at home after all. We do not advertise in this column, We provide information on a So I would like to publicly thank the but I can reveal the price was very lady who is currently being squired nearly $20. I have not had to look for wide range of topics and issues, by our oldest grandson. Sensing a my stick since I acquired it. examples are listed below.

* Consumer rights - buying and selling goods and services ie laptops, cellphone etc. * Flatting - your rights as a tenant, problems with flatmates. * Neighbourhood Disputes - problems with your neighbours’ trees. * Financial Problems - food parcels, budgeting services. * Work and Employment Problems - annual leave owed. * Relationships Problems - what happens to your relationship property. Free Legal Advice Clinic District Nursing 8 Goulding Avenue, Hornby on Thursday evening from 6.15pm onwards. Home-based Support Please phone branch directly to confirm clinic on 349 5236. Falls Prevention Justice of the Peace Clinics 8 Goulding Avenue, Hornby on Mondays, 11.30am to 2.30pm and ACC referrals Thursdays, 9.30am to 1.30pm. Please phone 349 5236 to confirm clinics. CREST Clients can call in and visit us at Hornby Community Centre, 8 Goulding Avenue or they 03 377 7527 can ring us on 0800 367 222 (free to cell phones) or visit our website: www.cab.org.nz www.healthcarenz.co.nz FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 13 Stuart is more than a volunteer driver

Regularly, Stuart Munro, a volunteer driver for Age Concern Canterbury, collects a group of elderly from their homes for a half-day trip. “I get a lot of satisfaction from the trips. I enjoy elderly people and the pleasure they get from these outings,” Stuart says. The fleet 1954 MG TF and 1974 MG BGT What most of the elderly trippers own an MG, have owned an MG or don’t know about Stuart is that he wish to own an MG.” is a skilled motor mechanic and a Crystal says, “The club has changed specialist car owner. In fact, for many their lives and opened many doors. years he owned his own repair garage We’ve attended some great events, in Sockburn. visited many new places and met a Further, Stuart and wife of nearly lot of wonderful people both locally Daffodil run 2013 Stuart and Chrystal Munroe 50 years, Crystal, own two vintage and worldwide.” MG sports cars and are enthusiastic Fast forward to 1990 when Stuart Woolston). Over the years the couple Whether driving his MG or the Age members of the MG Car Club was made redundant from the New also had a 1989 MG Metro, and a Concern Canterbury van, Stuart is at (Canterbury Centre). They each have Zealand Motor Corporation (after 25 1977 MG BGT. They owned the four home behind the wheel. He says he an MG and are regular participants in years). He arrived home with his pay- MGs at one stage but “we had a clear likes to take the elderly out of the city club activities. out and Crystal said: “You should go out”. – somewhere different to their daily Stuart’s interest in MGs was sparked out and find your much longed for They have attended MG rallies at routine. “I try to give them something when he was a teenager in Fairlie. MG.” And that’s what happened. various times and in the past have to think about when they get home.” Stuart served his apprenticeship Suffice to say, after much ground enjoyed taking part in time trials at Stuart has been known to confess under a relative who restored and work the first of their MGs – a 1954 Ruapuna Raceway and motorkhana that he still has a soft spot for his first owned an MG. MG TF 1500 was bought in Auckland events. car, the Mini Cooper. He believes When Crystal met Stuart in 1966 it and transported to Wigram in an Air Stuart has been a committee it was buried in a rubbish dump was clear to her that he had another Force Andover. member and President of the MG after being involved in an accident. love – and that was MGs. He had The love affair had begun in earnest. Club which has approximately 200 Fortunately he did keep the wood a Mini Cooper then but that was In 1996 Crystal bought her gold 1974 members in Canterbury. rimmed steering wheel when he sold sold when funds were needed for a MG BGT (it came from a Woolston Stuart adds: “Requirements to the car and it now adorns the 1974 deposit on a house. lady who only used it to shop in become a club member are that you MG BGT.

“IT’S A RELAXED WAY OF LIFE.”

See Joyce & Lloyd’s story at summerset.co.nz

“No lawns to mow or leaves to pick up.” Come and see why we love the life at Summerset Joyce and Lloyd have a beautiful garden and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with a great sense of community and security. Lloyd says he sees as many people in a day at Summerset Summerset as he would have seen in a month outside their last home. He also really enjoys not having the burden of continuous maintenance. at Wigram 135 Awatea Road, Christchurch They’ve been enjoying their villa at their Summerset retirement village for just over Contact Anne Walker on 03 741 0872 nine years. [email protected] And there’s an added bonus says Joyce, “Our family couldn’t be happier, because they know we’re looked after.” Love the life SUM0269 FEBRUARY 2017 14 KEEPING ON Age Concern Canterbury’s Social Outings in 2016

2016 was a great year for our Social Outings Service with a combined total of 883 outings (Cafe group outings and host visits to volunteer’s homes, libraries, schools, pre-schools and community groups). Here is a snapshot of our year.

Queenspark Group at Honey Cafe

Rosy Cheeks Preschool visit Our Lady of the Star School visit

St Albans Group at Kingsford Kitchen

St Martins Group at Pies & Coffee Bryndwr Group at Rose Cafe

Shirley Group at Cafe Euro Oaklands Group at Cafe Allwood Addington Group at The Store

Riccarton Fun Time Burnside Group at The Option Harewood Group at Wigram Air Force Cafe Pre-School Visit VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Minibus Drivers Make a difference in someone else’s life Groups of up to nine people are taken out for morning and afternoon tea. No special licence is required. Our need is growing along with the older population. Give it some thought. Please phone Peter at Age Concern Canterbury on (03) 331 7801 Christmas fun with the Social Network Team FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 15 District Commander’s advice

by Superintendent John Price NZ Police, Canterbury District Commander Age Concern Canterbury The world around us is certainly members of those communities fear Events Calendar 2017 changing at speed and the way their Police. We don’t have to look far Confident Driving Courses people communicate and receive to see examples. 20th February Rolleston information through the internet In New Zealand we experience 21st February Anthony Wilding and using cell phones has created very high levels of public trust and Retirement Village many opportunities – both good and confidence in Police – around 80%. 27th February Wainoni/Avonside bad. We can get our news, pay our Other countries, even in the Western 1st March Lincoln 10th March Papanui bills, do our banking and even our world, struggle to get out of single 15th March Prebbleton shopping without leaving the comfort digits for trust and confidence. I 19th March Papanui of our own homes. Unfortunately, we would like to assure you that this is 20th March Rangiora can also be taken advantage of by something my staff and I do not take 29th March Leeston scammers who may be sitting on the lightly. Maintaining your trust and 4th April Woodend other side of the world. confidence is something we discuss 5th April Lincoln The vast majority of people in every day. We have a mantra in 11th April Oxford our communities are good, honest, money or that a Nigerian King wants Canterbury Police to ‘make every 19th April Methven people, but unfortunately there is to deposit millions of dollars into your interaction count’. I expect my people 4th May Silverstream a small percentage who will take account. They don’t! Someone wants to uphold our values to treat all Retirement Village advantage of others where they to take advantage of you. people, be they the general-public, 17th May Kaiapoi can. Because of the way the internet The reason these people are victims or offenders, with respect, has opened up the world, people targeting older people is because they professionalism, integrity, empathy Monday, 2 October 2017 International Older Persons’ Day outside our borders are also taking know you are polite and you won’t and to value diversity and uphold our Expo, Papanui High School opportunities to set up scams and want to be rude or offend them. Don’t commitment to Maori and the Treaty. 9.30am till 2.30pm they are difficult, if not impossible, to We get a lot of feedback from the enter into a discussion, just hang up. Over 150 Exhibitors hold to account for their actions. The If the bank has something important Canterbury community and much Gold Coin Donation for Parking best thing we can all do is be vigilant to communicate to you they will write of this comes across my desk. We about how we use our technology and a letter. really value hearing from you about For more information wuth whom we share information. On a more positive note I’d like your experiences with Police in phone 366-0903 My advice to you all is to never agree to talk about the importance for Canterbury and I thank every one of to instructions over the telephone to us as Police of having the trust you who has taken the time to share turn on your computer and log into a and confidence of the community. your views. website. No legitimate organisation When the New Zealand Police was will ever ask you to do that and if established in 1886 we adopted the someone does ask just hang up the principles established by Sir Robert phone. Scammers are experts at Peel when he established the British sounding credible and scaring people Police. Those principles state that the into believing something terrible will Police are the people and the people happen if their instructions are not are the Police. followed. They may say they are from What this means is that we have the bank, or the IRD, or that you have the mandate from the community to computer problems. Hang up. do the work we do, upholding the The same goes for emails. Never law and keeping communities safe. click on a link in an email to another Police in many other countries don’t site. Never believe you have won work like this and even law abiding

Ageing is inevitable, but growing older doesn’t have to mean giving up Life Without A Car an active life. Driver safety is vital for drivers of all ages, but older drivers experience physical changes that Plan ahead - do what you enjoy can affect driving ability - changes in vision, reaction time and flexibility. What does the course involve? * A free class room based programme * Lunch included ($5.00 contribution) * Held in a safe & enjoyable environment * Workbook for future reference * No tests or exams on the course * Certificate of Attendance Course starts at 9.30am and concludes at 2.45pm The Older and Contact Age Concern Canterbury on Courses to be held at Community Facilities in Canterbury. 366-0903 for bookings. Wiser Driver 10.00am to 12.30pm or by arrangement. Book now! Confident Driving for Phone Age Concern Canterbury 366-0903 the Mature Driver Courses or email [email protected] FEBRUARY 2017 16 KEEPING ON A snapshot of social work with older people by Trina Cox, Social Worker, Age Concern Canterbury

I’m often asked about my job and requires an expert response from a the home, accepting physical change what I do. I tell people that I am skilled practitioner. Age Concern is and health decline, and perhaps the a Social Worker at Age Concern New Zealand’s lead organisation most difficult transition of all, the Canterbury and that I work on the dealing with elder abuse, and social move into residential care. The end of Community Health Team. But this workers are at the forefront working life is also a time that can come with doesn’t really give people the answer with individuals, their families and issues and practicalities people need to their question or the insight into support people and also with the to consider and may need support what I do, so here it is, in slightly myriad of other agencies and service with. An integral part of social work more than a nutshell! providers to ensure the safety, with older people is to assist, support, In 1995, after four years of full- protection and wellbeing of older guide and comfort people with the time study I graduated from Massey people. many emotions and issues that come University in Palmerston North with Social Isolation: Social Isolation up when they are experiencing a loss a Bachelor of Social Work degree. is perhaps one of the biggest issues or transition in later life. From that time, and even while I facing our ageing society. Many older Carer Support: Carers of older was at University, I was interested people are isolated and some will also people can experience considerable in working with older people and have health problems that interfere in stress and are often ill equipped to shortly after leaving University I was Trina Cox, Social Worker their ability to interact socially. Social manage the needs of the person employed as an inpatient Medical social work. isolation is now recognised as having they are caring for. The impact and Social Worker at Northland Base The needs of our elderly are as as much physical impact as heart rigours of caring for an older person, Hospital in Whangarei. Much of this complex as any age group and disease and is the leading cause of even for someone who has relatively work focused on the health of older maybe even more so. There are depression in the older population. minor needs, can be misunderstood, people and led me to pursue further now whole generations within the Part of the role of a social worker, undervalued and unsupported. work in this area. Many years later, population referred to as older people who works with older people, is to Carer stress is a huge problem and a move to Christchurch, a husband, and their needs and aspirations are find ways to reduce social isolation, the focus of social work with this three children, a cat and a dog, to as wide-ranging as any other social encourage people to participate and issue concentrates on the needs of add to my list of special mentions, I group. At its essence, the social work link in with social activities and work the carer, to ensure they are able to am still working in this field and loving profession is focused on the welfare of as a link between clients and the continue in their caregiving role, or it. individuals, families and communities many programmes set up to support be supported to relinquish their role I worked as a Clinical Assessor in and the ageing process throws out this age group. when it becomes too much for them. the Older Persons Health Specialist some particular challenges for the Advocacy: Social workers are Of course, there is much more Service at Princess Margaret Hospital older person, their families and specifically trained to be advocates that I do in the course of my work at for most of the 15 years that I have lived support people, and also those who for their client group. Advocacy is Age Concern Canterbury. I am often in Christchurch, but in 2014 I got the work with older people both in their the process of standing beside an out delivering education to staff of opportunity to come to Age Concern homes and in residential care. individual who is disadvantaged and aged residential care facilities and on a 12-month secondment to work Older age is something to be speaking out on their behalf in a way also to other health professionals on the Community Health Team. This celebrated, not endured. Social that represents them. Ageist attitudes and community groups. I deal with was a position that was funded by work interventions are directed at and stereotypes are common at every enquiries and provide information on the Canterbury Earthquake Appeals enhancing dignity, self-determination, level; in the family, in the community, a range of different issues affecting Trust. Fortunately the funding was personal fulfilment, quality of life, in the workplace and more broadly my client group. The list goes on and extended and I am still here. optimal functioning and ensuring the in society. An older person may the word ‘busy’ is something I’m often The passion I have for my work least restrictive living environment require an advocate to represent heard to be using around the office! has certainly stemmed from having possible. their interests, overcome barriers The vision of Age Concern a very close relationship with my Here are a few reasons why some that restrict their opportunities, and Canterbury is for older people to live a grandparents as I grew up and they of the more senior members of our someone to speak up for their rights valued life in an inclusive society and made a most valued and treasured community may require the help and and entitlements because they are our mission is to promote wellbeing, contribution to my childhood and early support of a social worker: not able to do so. Advocacy may rights, respect and dignity for older adulthood. As time went on, naturally Increased occurrence of health come at a very basic level where an people. The values of Age Concern my grandparents became older and issues and medical conditions: The older person may need support to Canterbury are certainly reflected in their needs increased. There was reality is that as people grow older they talk to their family about their wishes the work that I do and I find my role nothing that was more important to may develop a number of different or at a much higher level where the at Age Concern Canterbury to be a me than to know that my grandparents physical or medical issues. The body social worker may need to challenge challenging but very rewarding one. were treated with dignity and respect becomes weaker, less resistant to systemic or institutional issues that I’m sure I have met many of you in by all who came in contact with them. illness and health problems become might be impacting on a group of the course of my time at Age Concern And from this came a question that more prevalent. Social workers older people. Canterbury so I hope this article essentially guides my practice… “how often serve as ‘navigators’ through Loss and Transition: Change and has given you some insight into the would I feel if this was happening to the complex healthcare and social loss are constant in older age, and world of a social worker who works someone I love?” service systems, ensuring that older while we may hold the perception with older people and perhaps what I So, with that in mind, I would like people have access to services, that this should be accepted as might be able to do to support you or to tell you more about my role, and support and information. ‘part of life’, many of the challenges your family member. what a social worker who works with Elder Abuse and Neglect: During facing people in their later years Trina Cox is a Social Worker on older people does. When you hear 2015, over 2,000 referrals for are very difficult. For instance, this the Community Health Team at the term ‘Social Worker’ you probably suspected abuse or neglect of older is a time when people experience Age Concern Canterbury. There is think of someone who works in the people were received by Age Concern significant loss and bereavement also another Social Worker and two area of child protection. However New Zealand and in about 75% of and it is worth considering that loss is Registered Nurses on this team. If social workers are trained to work these cases, abuse and/or neglect not just about death. There are also you think that you might benefit from in a variety of different settings and was actually confirmed. Abuse and many transitions for older people the assistance of someone from the with a range of different people and neglect comes in many forms, and which may constitute a sense of Community Health Team, please issues. Working with older people is unfortunately prevalent in our loss. Learning to live without a car, contact Age Concern Canterbury on is an important entity in the field of community. It is a complex issue that having to accept more help around 366 0903. FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 17 Finding and paying for disability aids Can you If you need equipment or you are out and about, you will have modifications to your home you to buy it yourself. might be able to get funding from the If you need a walking stick or read this? Ministry of Health, ACC or the Lottery crutches, you will also have to buy Can you read this? Only smart Grants Board if you meet their criteria. these yourself. You can get these people can. Your GP can help you find out what from a pharmacy, The Warehouse or you might be eligible for. Cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulacity a specialised supplier listed by Age Your GP might refer you to a uesdnathnrd what I was rdanieg. Concern. physiotherapist or occupational The phanomnel pweor of the therapist if they can help you. Or If you need simple housing human mind, aoccdring to rseearch you may wish to pay to see a private modifications, such as a handrail at at Cmabridge Uiernvtisy, it doens’t physiotherapist or occupational the entry to your house or a shower mttaer in what oredr the ltteers in therapist. rail, contact one of the tradespeople a wrod are the olny ipmoratnt tihng Equipment you might need recommended by Enable New is that the frist and lsat ltteer be in includes: Zealand or suppliers co-ordinated by the rghit pclae. The rset can be a * things to make everyday tasks Age Concern Canterbury (phone 366 taotl mses and you can sitll raed it easier, such as a shower stool, wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae commode or bed lever. 0903). the huamn mnid deos not raed * specialised seating. If you need a mobility scooter you * pressure-care equipment. will also need to buy this yourself. In evrey lteter by istlef, but the wrod * a wheelchair. some cases you might be eligible for as a wlohe, amaznig huh? Yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot sipellng was *aids to help with vision and * door widening. a Lottery Grant to buy a scooter. communication. * ramps. (Source: Healthinfo Canterbury. www. ipmorantt! (Source: Unknown) * vehicle modifications. * modifications to your bathroom healthinfo.org.nz). * mobility aids. The Ministry of Health will pay for Housing modifications you might a walker only if you need it to get need include: around at home, or for access to your Invest with Heartland * installing handrails. home. If you need one only for when Are you concerned about the interest and are tiered, so the more money rates on your current call account? you deposit with Heartland Bank, the Do you want to earn an excellent more you’ll earn. You can have your Help available for relocating home rate with readily accessible funds? interest reinvested and compounded, Senior Move Managers provides streamlined with a single point of The Heartland Direct Call Account or paid straight into your bank support to senior citizens when they contact for everything relating to your could be a handy way to save for a account. You will pay no fees, so you are going through the process of move. We have provided services in rainy day as it is on call and earns a maximise your return from day one.* relocating home. the past from cutting off the power great rate of 3%, which compounds Heartland is an established New We come to you to discuss the in the previous home to sourcing monthly. If your car breaks down, you Zealand bank with roots stretching areas in which we can assist during new carpet for the living room and require emergency medical treatment back to 1875. We pride ourselves this difficult time. Together we work everything in between. We are your or you have to travel unexpectedly on delivering an exceptional service out what is required for your situation support to help you achieve your your funds will be readily available to our customers, tailored to their and what service providers are needs during this stressful time. with no fees or penalties associated. needs and specifically a high touch, needed. Senior Move Managers then We suggest giving us a call at the No minimum deposit is required to personal service to New Zealand goes to market on your behalf to very beginning of your relocation for set up the account, nor do you have seniors (60+ years), which is a identify the best service providers to a no obligation quote, so that we can to increase your balance to earn our growing demographic with specific meet your needs. construct a management plan and great rate.* financial needs. When you invest Once you approve the service guide you through this transition. Alternatively, if you are interested with Heartland you invest with a local providers, Senior Move Managers We charge at an hourly rate which in longer term savings our Heartland bank. books, manages and checks all the means you can use our service as Term Deposits are fixed term *Rate as at 27 January 2017 but work that is to be conducted on your much or as little as you need. investments with fixed interest rates, subject to change without notice. behalf. This decreases your stress Call us for a free no obligation quote providing a fixed return. Our interest See www.Heartland.co.nz for terms

and allows the entire process to be on 03 421 6537. A rates range from 30 days to 5 years and conditions. A

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9 MONTH TERM DEPOSIT % Senior Move Managers provides support to senior 3.70P.A. citizens when they are going through the process of relocating home. We come to you to discuss the areas in which we can assist during this difficult time. DIRECT CALL % ACCOUNT Together we work out what is required for your situation and 3.00P.A. what service providers are needed. ON CALL

*Rates are as at 27 January 2017 but subject to change without notice. See www.Heartland.co.nz for terms and Call now for a free no obligation quote on 03 421 6537 conditions. Term Deposit: Interest compounds quarterly. Direct Call Account: Interest compounds monthly. www.seniormovemanagers.co.nz heartland.co.nz/investments | 0800 22 72 27 [email protected] FEBRUARY 2017 18 KEEPING ON What’s happening in our bodies as we age

by Lisa Hee, Director of Healthy Ageing and Dementia Programmes, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Australia As we reach adulthood, we notice systems. However, this doesn’t have longer we live, the longer we expose changes in our bodies at every stage a great impact on a person’s ability to ourselves to possible damage to the of ageing. We might find we need remember, as the brain has the ability body through disease or injury, which glasses when we hit our thirties, we to compensate for these changes. are the main causes of dementia. can’t keep weight off as easily in our You may have heard of Alzheimer’s Disease, the most forties, we mightn’t feel as strong neuroplasticity. This is the term used common cause of dementia in playing sport with the kids in our fifties, to explain how the brain can rewire Australia, occurs when there is and we can’t hear a conversation itself by creating new pathways plaque build-up in the brain. This is across a crowded dinner table in our within the nerve cells to compensate as a result of protein build-up over sixties. for damage to an area. These time that inevitably causes tangles in Doing crosswords in old age will only All of these occur because the cells improve brain function if it’s a new new pathways are created when the neurons (brain cells). and processes in our bodies have activity. www.shutterstock.com new experiences occur. So doing Changes in muscle strength existed for longer and longer periods explanations for this, including crosswords all of your life won’t As we age, there’s a decrease in of time. There are many theories as cell death, in which the brain cells’ increase the number of pathways, the amount and strength of muscle to why our body ages, but two main structure declines over time. but if you add a new activity that you tissue, due mostly to the influence explanations are that the DNA within Although the precise reasons for need to learn and practise, then new of decreasing hormones. To make our genes determines how long we the decline in brain volume remain pathways can form. up for the muscle mass lost during will live; the other is that over time, unclear, some research indicates it While the risk of dementia increases each day of strict bed rest, older our body and DNA are damaged until may be due to hormone levels and with age due to many of the hundreds people may need to exercise for up they can no longer function as before, wear and tear. of causes being more present, it is not to two weeks. However, additional often referred to as “wear and tear”. Some also believe that the a normal part of the ageing process. It decreases in muscle occur due to a The ageing brain volume of blood reaching the brain is a result of damage to the brain. The decrease in activity, not just as part of As we age, the volume of the decreases due to conditions within reason why it is more likely to occur the normal ageing process. brain declines. There are many the blood vessels and associated as we age is simply because the (Continued on page 20) Navigating the retirement village choices

If you have been looking at ins and outs of retirement villages approach. Although there were audits weekly fee data, and capital gains retirement village options for yourself and aged care facilities - especially available on each of the facilities, etc., Mr Matthews believes that Aged or a family member, then you’ll already if you’re having to help family. It’s these primarily covered processes Advisor will save potential residents know how much there is to come to an important time to ensure you get – “there was nowhere to go to valuable time and money, and help grips with. Buried within the individual, clear and concise information. compare and read reviews on the them make better informed decisions lengthy disclosure statements that “Assisting parents several years ago facilities,” comments Mr Matthews. when looking to move into one of each retirement village is required to to move into a retirement village and “It’s too important a decision to try these facilities. have - are the answers to whether later into aged care, gave me my first and guess or simply believe a glossy This is also the second year that you’re purchasing outright, renting, real experience in the sector. Shortly brochure...” AgedAdvisor will recognise the or acquiring an LTO / ORA / RTO?... after that, a group of us got together In talking to a multitude of people and that’s just for starters. Does the and talked about the ‘loneliness’ we all in a similar position, and looking top retirement villages and aged DMF percentage they quote include saw in some of these facilities. We at overseas trends, it was clear New care facilities from throughout New an ‘exit’ admin fee? Do you get any decided to create a not-for-profit, Zealand needed an independent Zealand, with its “People’s Choice share of the capital gain - or are you visitation programme to these villages review website - AgedAdvisor was Awards”. Results will be out late liable for capital loss? and aged care facilities. Over time, born. February 2017. Nigel Matthews, founder of Aged it became clear that the retirement Now, with nearly 2000 reviews on AgedAdvisor New Zealand Advisor New Zealand, knows all too villages / aged care facilities varied almost 500 retirement villages and is involved in running a series well how confusing and frustrating greatly in environment, activities, aged care facilities throughout New of seminars and one-on-one this can be, trying to understand the work-place culture and management Zealand, AgedAdvisor has become consultations for individuals or the highest searched website in NZ families looking at retirement village for reviews and consumer ratings in or aged care living. Times, venues, this sector. That, coupled with the contact details & costs can be found recent release of purchase price on their website - www.agedadvisor. ranges, deferred management fees, nz A

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Find out who the winners & finalists were at: Ph: (03) 347-2635, Arthur 0274847980, Anneke 0273494014 www.agedadvisor.co.nz/awards www.arthursroofandproperty.co.nz FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 19 Top ten tips for a healthier home A dry home is a much healthier want the air to be able to circulate to curtains to let in the (free!) warmth of home, keep the doors to the kitchen home. These are our top tips for a avoid mould growth. the sun and close them late afternoon and bathroom closed when you are healthy home, including what to do 3. Remove condensation: get rid to trap the heat inside. bathing or cooking. If you do not have about a damp house and how to get of condensation from your windows 7. Curtain tracks: enclosed curtain extractor fans then open the windows rid of condensation. every morning. Use an old towel or tracts or pelmets improve the to let out the stream. 1. Ventilate: open all your windows a scoopy to remove the moisture or effectiveness of curtains and stop 9. Remove mould: mould on your and doors for 10 minutes during the it will evaporate into the air making it cold air flow from the window. If you windows or walls? Remove it with a spray solution of 70% white wine warmest part of the day. This will harder to heat. can’t afford to change your tracks exchange the warm damp air inside 4. Dry clothes outside: dry your vinegar and 30% hot water. Wipe off you can make your own ‘pelmet’ out for dry air. The air from outside may clothes outside, not inside. after a minute. of cardboard or rolled up blankets, be colder but cold dry air is easier to 5. Let the sun in: cut vegetation 10. Reduce humidity: keep lids on heat than warm damp air. back from north facing windows to and put it over the gap between the your pots and pans when you cook to 2. Position your furniture: make make the most of the free heat you curtain track and the wall. reduce humidity inside. sure your furniture isn’t pressed up receive from the sun. 8. Reduce dampness: to reduce (Source: Canterbury Asthma Society hard against any external walls. You 6. Use your curtains: draw your condensation and dampness in your Inc. Whoosh. Autumn 2015) The secret to joint pain relief - advice I don’t want to be a bother from Harvard Medical School As we age our bodies don’t always function with the same ease they Joint pain - it throbs, aches and achieved at a comfortable pace and once did. This can be a slow and hurts. It may hinder everyday tasks with very low cost in money or time”. insidious process or a sudden shock and pleasures like going And here is an easy way to after an illness. When we are no for a walk, lifting grocery do it. longer easily able to do things for bags or playing your The Aircycle exercises ourselves, life can become difficult. favourite sport. Every are designed to manage Simple tasks may become Key turner painful movement may arthritic pain and stiffness, challenging, such as: remind you of your in hands, shoulders, legs • turning on taps or doing up limitations. and lower back. They help shoelaces • Ignoring the pain won’t strengthen calf and thigh • getting in and out of bed, chairs or make it go away. Nor will muscles which support cars avoiding all motions that and protect your hips and • pulling plugs out of the wall spark discomfort. In fact, knees. • lifting kettles and opening cans limiting your movements Stronger muscles • getting out and about Tap turner can weaken muscles, improve balance and •showering and dressing/undressing maintain your freedom and avoid an compounding joint trouble. While mobility, helping you avoid falls. The • difficulty feeding yourself and/or unnecessary crisis. pain relievers may offer quick fixes exercises also improve joint flexibility swallowing. If you, or anyone you know is they are merely temporary. and boost circulation. Having to depend on others to struggling, Therapy Professionals, • By contrast, the right set of You do not have to designate do or help with these tasks can Physio, Speech Language, Music exercises can be a long-lasting way special exercise times or work long be frustrating, inconvenient and and Occupational Therapists and to tame ankle, knee, hip or shoulder periods with an Aircycle circulation embarrassing. Many of us don’t ask Dietitians can help you to maintain pain. Practiced regularly, joint pain booster. Just keep your joints and for help from our families or friends or regain your independence and relief exercises might permit you to muscles moving gently while sitting because “we don’t want to be a confidence. They can help make life postpone - or even avoid - surgery having coffee, reading, watching TV, bother” and we leave seeking help easier by suggesting how to adapt on a problem joint that has been working at a desk or travelling by until we get into a crisis. Many of your home or lifestyle, recommending worsening for years. car or plane. It’s so simple and so us struggle alone at home with little alternative ways of doing things or • By strengthening supportive inexpensive. knowledge of the help available to giving tips on useful gadgets and muscles and restoring flexibility, over Relieve joint pain, strengthen legs, assist our independence. equipment. time, you may find limitations will boost circulation. Feeling as if you are relying on family You don’t have to struggle alone, begin to ease. And becoming more Aircycle information & orders: www. can make you feel like a burden. Therapy Professionals, a private active can help you stay independent aircycle.co.nz, call 0800 14 14 15 or Time with family is precious and practice of expert health professionals, longer. may be available in pharmacies and needs to be enjoyable. Professional can help. Call Therapy Professionals The report says “all of this can be mobility centres. RRP $39.90. A help is available and can help you on 377 5280. A IS AGEING, DISABILITY, INJURY OR ILLNESS MAKING LIFE DIFFICULT? Circulation Booster Strengthen Leg Muscles Therapy Professionals Ltd’s physio, speech language, music and occupational therapists and Gentle exercise To support joints & improve balance dietitians can make life easier. while you sit - it’s Avoid Falls so easy! Helpful for: We can help. * Relieving arthritic pain *Strengthening muscles We come to you. * Improving joint flexibility * Diabetic foot care * Reducing swollen ankles * Parkinson’s & MS For more information contact: * Stroke rehabilitation * Painful fingers & wrists * Cramps & restless legs * Travelling (DVT) Telephone: (03) 377 5280 * Varicose veins * Cold hands and feet Fax: (03) 377 5281 Available in pharmacies, Diabetes Christchurch, [email protected] at www.aircyle.co.nz or call 0800 141415 or post $44.90 www.therapyprofessionals.co.nz (P&P included) to PO Box 313, Waikanae, 5036. FEBRUARY 2017 20 KEEPING ON What’s happening in our bodies as we age Continued from page 18. low light becomes more difficult, and Taste and smell often decrease as Decrease in bone density the ability to adapt to changes in light part of the normal ageing process, As the body ages it absorbs less declines. as the cells responsible decrease in calcium from food, a vital mineral Some people appear clumsy, as number and the ability to regenerate for bone strength. At the same time, their ability to judge the distance worn out cells decreases with age. changes in hormone levels affect the between objects - a cup and table, The results make food less tasty and density of the bones. for example, or the height of stairs people less likely to eat. In addition, Ageing people also often spend - becomes a problem. Many people people’s taste can change altogether, less time in the sun, thereby reducing do not realise their spills and trips are so people who loved chocolate as their Vitamin D intake. This in turn occurring as a result of shifts in their a young person may prefer chilli as reduces calcium absorption. vision, known as depth perception they age. Exercise will help to combat common It is important people continue to fractures in old age. changes. Eyes can also become Overall there are many changes to exercise as they age. Exercise will www.shutterstock.com drier, making them feel irritated. This the body as part of the normal ageing not only help to maintain muscle the changes in vision are usually the can be treated with lubricating drops. process as well as many that occur strength, but also assist in combating first things noticed, making a person Changes in hearing include changes as a result of lifestyle factors. We the decrease in bone density that feel that they are ageing. in registering high-pitched sounds, are not all fated to age in a negative occurs as the body ages, thereby Changes to the eye that occur as and words may become difficult to spiral. Many lifestyle choices made reducing the risk of falls and hip part of the ageing process include understand. Speaking more loudly to earlier in life can assist us in the fractures. stiffening and colouring of the lens, someone in this circumstance does future. With proactive decisions and Changes to our senses a reduction in the number of nerve not help, as the pitch is the problem, community understanding, we can Changes that occur directly as a cells, and a decrease in fluid in not the volume. Instead speaking look forward to adapting to a positive result of ageing include those to vision, the eye. These lead to difficulty in slightly slower and concentrating on ageing process. hearing, taste and smell. Impacts of focusing on close objects, seeing in complete words can be helpful. (Source: the conversation.com) Falling over is not a natural part of ageing - it is preventable

Have you, or someone you know, people. Often a fall causes significant out walking, gardening and playing used all around the world for Falls fallen over and hurt themselves pain, inconvenience, and reduces with grandchildren. Ironically the fear Prevention. The gentle, easy lately? your enjoyment of life. As well, the of falling often makes people take exercises focus on strengthening Sadly, falling is one of the most fear of falling stops or spoils your tiny shuffling steps, and can actually your leg, buttock, core and back common causes of injury for older enjoyment of doing things like going increase the chance of tripping or muscles, increasing your awareness falling. of your feet, and improving your However, we know that falling is not flexibility. You will stand up and sit a natural part of ageing. You can lower down more easily, walk and turn your chance of falling by becoming with greater stability and confidence, more aware of your surroundings, and also find that you notice your Falls are preventable and by removing or avoiding hazards environment more when you have like loose mats and uneven ground. been to just a few classes. These STEADY AS YOU GO (SAYGo) More importantly you can reduce factors are important for preventing SAYGo Falls Prevention Exercise classes improve your balance, your chance of falling by exercising falls but they also help you to enjoy leg strength, flexibility, general fitness and wellbeing. to strengthen your legs and buttocks, your other exercise outings because Harewood, St James Church Hall, Harewood Road on improve your balance and increase you will feel more confident and Monday at 1.00pm. your flexibility. stable. It is quite likely that you will Harewood (New beginners class), St James Church Hall, You can do exercises at home, and feel physically better and more able Harewood Road at 2.00pm starting 20 February. DESIGNED FOR MEN Halswell, Te Hapua: Halswell Centre, 341 Halswell Road on you can go out for a walk as often as to do your normal activities. AND WOMENls Monday at 1.00pm. possible, or always walk to the shops You will also have fun in the class, Hei Hei, Community Centre, Wycola Avenue on Falls are the most or to visit a friend. Or you can join and enjoy being with a social and Monday at 10.30am. common cause of injury in a walking group, croquet or bowls friendly group of like-minded people. Hoon Hay, Hoon Hay Presbyterian Church Lounge, older people. 5 Downing St, Hoon Hay on Friday at 9.30am. club to gain your exercise along with Each class costs just $2. Nazareth House, Activities Room, Main Building at 9.30am Falls are not a natural others – and enjoy the social activities Regular attendance at Steady As starting 28 February. Phone 343 1171 for more info. New Brighton Library, Friday at 10.00am starting 3 March part of ageing, FALLS are associated with these organisations. You Go (SAYGO) classes is known in the Pad. Parking beyond the Whale Pool or in the Library preventable! Some of us are more likely to exercise to help people (especially those parking area. if we have a ‘date’ with others. There over 65, but anyone of any age will Papanui, Age Concern Centre, cnr Main North Rd and Save yourself from Loftus Street on Tuesday at 9.30am. a fall by attending a are many ways to ensure that you benefit) to reduce their likelihood of Rangiora, Ballarat Retirement Village, 21 Ballarat Road, weekly SAYGO class and stay fit and healthy. falling over. Classes are fun, easy, at Rangiora on Wednesday at 10.30am. improving your strength All these exercise opportunities your pace. Exercises are seated and Redcliffs, Port Hills Uniting Church, Augusta Street. and balance. Redcliffs on Monday at 10.00am. will be enhanced and made safer if standing, with a little walking. Riccarton, Kauri Lodge, 148 Riccarton Road on Thursday $2.00 per class. you add regular, specific exercise There are classes running in at 9.30am. designed to help you keep your Papanui, Harewood, Hei Hei, Halswell, St Albans, St Albans Community Centre, 1047 Colombo Street (near Edgeware Road). Thursday at 10.00am (starting balance and to pull yourself back into Riccarton, Hoon Hay, Somerfield, 22 February). Parking access 126 Caledonian Road. the vertical if you trip or stumble. Waltham, Redcliffs, Wainoni and Wainoni, (Wait list only), Celebration Centre, 81 Bickerton Age Concern runs weekly exercise Rangiora. More classes are starting Street, back entrance with Preschool signage classes specifically designed to help in the city and in North Canterbury on Monday at 10.30am. you not fall. These classes are called over the next few months. Waltham, Waltham Steady As You Go or SAYGO for For class times and contact details Cottage at 201 Hastings short. see the list in this copy of Keeping Street East, Waltham on Tuesday at 1.00pm. SAYGO exercises are based on On, or look at http://ageconcerncan. the Otago Exercise Programme. This org.nz/falls-prevention/ or phone Age Please phone Age Concern Canterbury on 366 0903 is an exemplar exercise programme Concern Canterbury 366 0903 or to express your interest in these classes. designed at Otago University and Christine Toner 0274339598. FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 21 Eating with diverticular disease

by Gemma Lilly, Project Dietitian, Senior Chef Co-ordinator, Pegasus Health What is it? helps to prevent side effects like oats in baking and cooking. As we age, our bowel wall starts to bloating and wind (flatulence). • Add fruit to biscuits, scones, cakes weaken a little, creating little pouches High-fibre foods include vegetables, and muffins. or pockets known as diverticulae. fruit, nuts, seeds, legumes (cooked • Add lentils or split peas to soups This is a normal part of ageing, and dried beans, peas and lentils), and casseroles. around half of those over 70 will have wholegrain breads and cereals. • Add nuts and seeds to salads them. This has the name ‘diverticular Remember that cooking does not and stir-fries. This also adds extra disease’. In many people, this destroy fibre. High-fibre foods don’t crunch. process causes no problems or have to be raw, rough or crunchy. symptoms at all, however one in four They can be soft and smooth e.g. • Try baked beans or a salad made people will develop symptoms from wholemeal bread, porridge, cereal from canned mixed beans. this condition. softened with milk, stewed fruit, and • Leave skins on fruits and The diverticulae (pockets) vary in cooked vegetables. vegetables. Remember to wash them size, and occasionally small amounts This helps keep stools soft and easy Are you getting all the fibre you well. of food can get trapped in them. This to pass, and reduces the pressure in need? Try: • Try brown rice and wholemeal can cause the bowel wall to become the large bowel so food is less likely • Start the day with a high-fibre pasta. inflamed and sore, which can lead to become trapped. It can also help breakfast cereal. Try muesli, bran- • Choose high-fibre snacks like fruit to infection. This condition is called ease symptoms, such as bloating, based cereals or porridge. Add fresh (raw, stewed or dried). Kiwifruit and diverticulitis. This may be painful and constipation, diarrhoea (the runs), or stewed fruit to your cereal. prunes are particularly helpful for if you suspect you have diverticulitis, and pain. • Choose wholemeal, wholegrain or constipation. see your doctor. If your diet is low in fibre it is important high-fibre breads. • Have 8 cups of fluid per day One of the things that can help us you gradually introduce more high- • Have wholegrain crackers or including hot drinks, milk, soups and avoid diverticulitis is having a high fibre foods over the course of a few wholemeal bread instead of biscuits. water. fibre diet and drinking lots of fluid. weeks. Increasing fibre gradually • Use wholemeal flour and rolled (Source: Healthinfo.org.nz). Fruity bran muffins are very moist The addition of mashed banana or grated apple makes these muffins very moist. Great served with a milky drink as a nutritious snack. (Makes 10 muffins) Ingredients Method 2 Tablespoons margarine or butter 1. Preheat the oven to 180º C. 1 Tablespoon golden syrup 2. Lightly grease 1 set of muffin tins with a pastry brush and oil 1 cup flour (wholemeal or plain) or oil spray. 1 cup oat bran 3. Melt margarine and golden syrup together in small saucepan ½ cup wheat germ over heat. Once melted remove from heat. ¼ cup brown sugar 4. Combine dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. 1 teaspoon mixed spice 5. Dissolve baking soda in milk. Add to melted margarine and 1 teaspoon baking powder golden syrup. ¼ cup chopped dates or raisins 6. Add mashed banana or grated apple to liquid ingredients. 1¼ cup milk 7. Add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients and stir to combine. 1 teaspoon baking soda Do not over mix as this will produce a tough muffin. 1 mashed banana or 1 grated apple 8. Spoon into muffin tins and bake for 15-20 minutes. Magnesium - supplement or not? A commonly asked questions “Do magnesium supplementation. people with low bone density need Examples are kidney disease, and extra magnesium?” gastrointestinal conditions such Magnesium is certainly an important as Crohn’s and coeliac diseases. Senior Chef is a FREE 8 week cooking course for older people who mineral that our body needs in These can reduce the absorption of want to improve their skills, confidence or motivation around cooking. small amounts. It is needed by the magnesium from the gut. Dietary Classes are 3 hours long and run once a week. heart, muscles and kidneys, and is sources of magnesium include green especially important for our teeth and leafy vegetables, nuts, beans and bones. Magnesium also has a role unrefined grains and dairy food, all in regulating calcium levels in the of which should be part of a well- body. Our daily need for magnesium balanced diet. These foods are also cannot be met by a single food but good sources of calcium. you should be able to get all the So, do you need supplementation? How do I join a Senior Chef course? magnesium you need by eating a Only if you suffer from the conditions varied and balanced diet. Men need mentioned above, otherwise a good Contact your GP, Practice Nurse or other health professional. 300mg and women 270mg daily. balanced diet should provide all your If you qualify, they will refer you to the course coordinator who will However, certain medical conditions magnesium needs. contact you to discuss enrolment. can upset the body’s magnesium (Source: Bone Alert Newsletter, balance and may necessitate November 2016). See our website for more info and recipes: www.seniorchef.co.nz FEBRUARY 2017 22 KEEPING ON Heart Foundation hosts information sessions Matters of the heart - Tom

Heart Foundation hosts information time to ask questions, view resources sessions for those living with Atrial and talk to other relevant health Stuttaford: Doctor’s Surgery Fibrillation professionals. Family members and A healthy heart beats 115,000 implanted in my chest. The result The Heart Foundation is sending whānau are welcome at this event. times a day. Few if any mechanical seemed almost miraculous. Within a clear message to Canterbury Emma Griffin, Heart Health pumps would manage to maintain a few hours I was less breathless, in residents living with atrial fibrillation Advocate, says living with heart this workload for more than eighty fact hardly breathless at all, my gait, – ‘you are not alone’. disease or recovering from a heart years but the heart frequently does. always affected by a spinal fracture, Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is one of New event can be lonely and challenging. However, in some people the strain improved and suddenly my brain, Zealand’s fastest growing forms of For many people, the first time they on it begins to show. with the improved oxygen supply, was heart disease and is a type of irregular and their loved ones hear about AF In my case my heart, after 85 years able to recall names and facts that I heart rhythm that causes poor blood is at the time of diagnosis. It’s not a of excellent service, started to fail. had found impossible to remember flow to the body. It currently affects condition we hear talked about every Usually it chugged along far too slowly for months. about four in every 100 Kiwis aged so that my blood was not adequately It may sound a gruesome idea to day, or mentioned in the media. over 65. oxygenated and my essential organs have someone implanting a small “We want to reach out to bring The Christchurch branch of the were suffering. I was breathless, electrical device into the muscles people living with atrial fibrillation Heart Foundation is hosting free unusually tired, standing for any below the collar bone from which information and support sessions and their families together in a warm, length of time was difficult and I could tiny electrical leads will lead down to focused on staying well with Atrial supportive environment that allows walk only short distances. Neither one or more chambers of the heart. Fibrillation. Murray Hart, nurse them to meet, learn and share their were my kidneys working as well as However, it proved to be painless, specialist from Christchurch Hospital experiences. they could have been. no more than an uncomfortable will discuss treatments for Atrial For more information please The normal heart rate is between 65 sensation, to have the muscles below Fibrillation, lifestyle modifications and contact Emma Griffin, Heart Health and 75. My rate had dropped to an the collar bone parted so that the the different medications used to treat Advocate, emmag@heartfoundation. average of 45 but had periods when leads from the impulse generator, the this condition. There will be plenty of org.nz or 03 366 2112. it would race along, sometimes as pacemaker, could be threaded along fast as 90 and other times even less a vein to the selected chambers.  than 45. My symptoms were worse The whole operation was conducted after eating, as the body’s systems under local anaesthesia. Once this are so carefully balanced that after had worn off, the chest felt only a meal the stomach and guts are bruised and the incision only tender. allowed to steal a larger share of the Driving is forbidden for a week only oxygenated blood, leaving the heart but no heavy work, such as lifting or muscle starved of it. carrying cases, is allowed for six to My doctors agreed that the cause eight weeks. In fact, manual working of my troubles might be a sick-sinus above head level is not recommended syndrome. The sinus referred to is thereafter, so someone else will now a sinoatrial (SA) node, the part of have to cut my tall hedges and prune the heart that controls its rate and the trees. Living with Atrial Fibrillation? rhythm. If this happens it may be a After a pacemaker has been fitted sign that the sinus for some reason or it is recommended that one doesn’t You Are Not Alone another has worn out. The heart may lurk too long by the anti-theft devices The Heart Foundation invites you to an information session to discuss then for long periods beat too slowly in supermarket doors or near the living with Atrial Fibrillation (AF). but at other times may race away exit from libraries. Those of us with Following a short presentation about AF and medicines that are used to chaotically. This irregular rhythm one are issued with a card to explain treat this condition, this informal session will open up to those wanting to is known in doctor’s jargon as the our condition to officials at airports share their own experiences of living with AF, or to ask questions about bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome. and can attend an MRI session only their condition. Whanau are more than welcome to come along and share If nature’s control system has with a cardiologist’s permission and with the group as well. petered out, an answer may be to sometimes their attendance. control the heart rate by having an Batteries in the artificial pacemaker When: Tuesday 14 March at 10.30am artificial pacemaker fitted to send usually last seven to ten years. After OR Thursday 23 March at 5pm out small electrical signals to one or the pacemaker has been fitted, skilled Healthy snacks will be served at this FREE event. more of the heart’s chambers to keep physiologists take complex readings them beating at a normal rhythm and to check that the electrical demands Where: Heart Foundation office, Unit 5, 357 Madras Street, speed. being made on the pacemaker are not Christchurch So a couple of weeks ago I went excessive. Later the heart rate can Register: RSVP to Emma or Jenny on 03 3662112 into hospital under the NHS to have be altered without further surgery. Email [email protected] my SA node’s efficiency corrected (Source: The Oldie, December 2016. by having an artificial impulse www.theoldie.co.uk).

    AGE CONCERN CANTERBURY ARE LOOKING FOR COMPETENT GARDENERS or those with a keen interest in gardening to maintain gardens for older adults in the community.

Own transport and tools necessary. Payment on an hourly rate.

For more information please phone Sharyn on 366-0903 FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 23 People of Canterbury’s past: Ted Howard

by Dan Bartlett

An inveterate social-democrat, Maoriland Worker column that, “I am while the men were imprisoned, and Edwin John Howard represented prepared to advocate that we close broke out in the jail itself. Howard’s a new type of politician, and one parliament at once, and that we allow fund assisted with small comforts sent whose Keynesian convictions would every one of the members to go to to the sick men in Templeton prison, eventually come to dominate 20th the front…I reckon they would look and some extra treats at Christmas. century New Zealand politics for well in cocked hats and gold lace. Howard’s story does not end with almost fifty years. In the early part Let Bill [Massey] go, let the baronets the war. In 1919 he was elected of the century many of Howard’s and marionettes go. Let them all go. as the Labour Party Member of ideas were not yet part of the political If it needs greater sacrifice than this, Parliament for the Christchurch mainstream, but a strong sense of then I am prepared to sacrifice all South electorate. He held this seat class-consciousness permeated the special constables, and even the until his death in 1939. Howard was Christchurch and “there was always scabs.” keenly disappointed when he was not a crowd to hear him when he stood Ted Howard’s organisational included in the first Labour cabinet in on a soap-box in Sydenham Park or abilities came to the fore in the creation 1935, but by that time he was in poor Victoria Square, or on some street and development of the Seditious health and was the oldest member of corner in Christchurch advocating Prisoners and Conscientious the party caucus. the cause of the Labour Party”. Objectors’ Fund, set up to assist the Ted Howard died in 1939. Labour Ted Howard helped to establish families of the men who had been cabinet minister Tim Armstrong told the Canterbury Workers’ Educational imprisoned for the stand they took the Press that “Mr Howard’s name will Association (CWEA), becoming its against the war. With the help of the live long in the memory of every liberty- first secretary and “driving force”. Edwin Howard, circa 1920 Alexander Maoriland Worker, the CGLU and his loving person who knew his qualities Howard was also secretary of the Turnbull Library, Wellington, NZ daughter Mabel, who “ably assisted and his work”, and fellow Labour MP Canterbury General Labourers’ Union break the strike with force. From the without once grumbling”, Howard’s Dan Sullivan remembered him as (CGLU), and a member of the Board outbreak of war, there had been no fund was able to raise £3680; in “a mighty fighter, a loyal comrade, a of Governors of both the Christchurch doubt where Massey’s sympathies current terms, that’s well over four giant in the people’s cause”. Technical College and the Canterbury lay; in a personal missive to the British hundred thousand dollars. In his maiden speech to parliament, University College. cabinet in 1914, he wrote that “all we The fund assisted the families whose Howard had summed up his attitude The New Zealand Labour Party are and all we have is at the disposal breadwinners were incarcerated; to political life: “Every time I get a was not officially formed until 1916, of the British Government”. who had mortgages or rents to pay, chance from the public platform I and an authoritarian government was With a socialist’s sense of groceries to buy, and children to care preach to the workers one story, and in power during the War, led by the internationalism, and a unionist’s for. Howard was at pains to point out one story only – have respect for anti-communist and strike-breaker, understanding of solidarity and the that “none of them could be accused yourselves, and demand that you William Massey. Massey is perhaps power to organise, Ted Howard was of taking one penny more than they shall have conferred on you just as best remembered for his harsh an obstinate opponent of pre-war were not literally forced to…the much as the other fellow gets.” treatment of workers during the 1913 compulsory military training and women were grand, and under Ted Howard was a champion of the Waterfront Strike, and his use of wartime conscription. Howard was very trying circumstances”. Trying working class, an advocate for the “Massey’s Cossacks”: baton-wielding fearless, barbed and sometimes circumstances indeed: the influenza least well-off and a defender of those farmers on horseback employed to irreverent, writing in his regular pandemic-ravaged Christchurch least able to defend themselves. Driver for Cats Protection League Grandparents answering My name is Warwick Hay. I am a volunteer for the Cats’ Protection machine message League. I assist those cat owners Good morning ... at present we are not at home, but please leave your who have transportation difficulties. message after you hear the beep. beeeeeeeeeeppppp ... This consists of taking owners If you are one of our and their cats to vet appointments; children, dial 1 and then picking up cats to be de-sexed, taking select the option from 1 to them to the vet for the operation and 5 in order of “birth date” so returning them, and picking up cats we know who it is. which are being surrendered to the * If you need us to stay League for re-homing. At present I with the children, press 2. am the only person doing this so we * If you want to borrow are looking for volunteers for back- the car, press 3. up in case I am unavailable. * If you want us to wash You would need your own reliable your clothes and do transport and an affinity for people ironing, press 4. * If you want the and cats. A fuel allowance would be grandchildren to sleep here tonight, press 5. available if necessary. * If you want us to pick up the kids at school press, 6. The sometimes awkward part of * If you want us to prepare a meal for Sunday or have it delivered to your this is getting a few reluctant cats home, press 7. into cages, however this comes * If you want to come to eat here, press 8. with practise and we will provide * If you need money, press 9. instruction and practise in cat questions please contact me on * If you are going to invite us to dinner or take us to the theatre, start talking handling. 9818617 or 02102391831 or our ... we are listening! If you are able to assist us or have office on 3766094. (Source: Unknown) FEBRUARY 2017 24 KEEPING ON

A UPDATE FROM THE CLUBS Shirley Recreation Walkers

Meet at 9.30am Mondays Amberley Welcome Club members enjoyed a two night trip to Nelson and Thursdays by the Shirley in December. An outing for lunch at Five Stags and a trip to Willowbank Community Site for Car Pool is planned for February. A trip to Dunedin for three nights is planned for to start of walk. Park on April. Meet: 3rd Monday at 1.30pm, Anglican Church Hall. Contact: Ann Chancellor Street (entrance McKenzie on 03 314 9943. off Shirley Road) NOTE: If Beckenham Friendship Club members enjoyed entertainment from Val you want to go straight to the from Vee Jays at their Christmas afternoon tea. Paul and Kay Easterbrook, start of walk, you must let Sue Marion and Pat Hannah will entertain in 2017. Meet: Second Tuesday of the month at 1.15pm at St Marks Church, corner of Barrington Street and know on the day. $4.00 petrol Somerfield Street. Contact: Janet Meek on 332 4237 or email janetmeek@ contribution to driver (unless xtra.co.nz. otherwise stated). Ph 981 Belfast Friendship Club members enjoyed their Christmas party where 7071 or 027 7754635. Mondays they were entertained by Lyn and Ron. Ron dressed as Father Christmas and handed out small gifts of sweets. A bus trip to Hanmer in early April is 27th February: Heathcote planned. Meet: Every second Monday, 1.30 pm, at the Belfast Rugby Club River Walk (1.5 hrs approx.) Hall, March Place, Belfast. Contact: Helen Beach on 03 323 8461. Rescheduled from December, this walk features Bishopdale Senior Citizen Club opened on 13th February 2017 Worsleys Reserve and Ernlea and welcomed new members. The Club has fortunightly meetings with It will be followed entertainers and tea and biscuits, three bus trips a year and a winter lunch. Reserve. by coffee at Zero’s Cafe on Meet: Every second Monday, 1.30 pm, at the Methodist Church, Corner Cashmere Road for those who Harewood Road & Chapel St. Contact: Marie Tyler on 03 359 4344. wish Lincoln Area Senior Citizen Club members enjoyed an excellent . Start from Cashmere Road near the playground. Christmas function with the ladies Lions providing the dinner. Raffles were 6th March: Bishopdale-Harewood Walk (2 hrs approx.) also held. In February members will be visiting the Southern Alpacas This walk features Tullet Park, Nunweek Park, many lanes and small and lunch at Islington Tavern. The Club’s AGM is on 17th March. Meet: reserves. Park cars on Glasnevin Drive (off Sawyers Arms Road) in angle First Tuesday of the month at 1.30pm at Lincoln Event Centre. Contact: parking next to Tullet Park near the playground. Margaret Barratt on (03) 325 2218. 13th March: St Albans-Mairehau Walk (2 hrs approx.) Oxford Senior Citizen Club members enjoyed a beautiful day at Hanmer Enjoy a walk around these leafy suburbs featuring Abberley Park and Springs last October and the Operatunity Concerts. Their Christmas dinner Malvern Park. Start from Abberley Crescent next to Abberley Park. $1.00 was held at the Oxford Workingmen’s Club. A bus trip to Erewon Station to driver. was planned for the end of February 2017. Meet: Second Wednesday of 20th March: Southshore Spit Walk (2 hrs approx.) the month at 1.30pm at Oxford Workingmen’s Club Lounge. Contact: Mrs Walk along the beach, then around The Spit and into the South Shore Carol Lowrey on 03 312 3019. Spit Reserve for a break. Walk out around The Spit once again and back Sumner Senior Citizens Club members enjoyed their Christmas along the beach. Park cars on Caspian Street between Marine Parade and celebrations at Lincoln. A speaker from Age Concern Canterbury and a Rocking Horse Road. bus trip to Claremont Farm are planned for 2017. Meet: Second and fourth 27th March: Beckenham Walk (2 hrs approx.) Wednesday each month at 1.30pm at Sumner Surf Club. Contact: Lola This walk features the Heathcote River, Beckenham Ponds and Remuera Bouckoms on 384-9889. Reserve. It will be followed by coffee at Red Cafe in The Christchurch South Library for those who wish. Start from Hunter Terrace off Colombo Street. BE ACTIVE CHRISTCHURCH (Access through the library car park). BE ACTIVE is suitable for anyone 16 years and over who is Thursdays looking to increase their activity and/ or wanting to try new things. 2nd March: Witch-Hill-The Tors-Whaka Raupo Reserve (2. 5 hrs approx.) We welcome anyone interested in the programmes. Rescheduled from November, enjoy the time up on this section of the Port ake Be Active Rolleston, Rolleston Community Centre, Hills that has been closed to traffic with stunning views along the way. T lunch Mondays starting 13 February, 12.30 – 2pm as this walk is a little longer. Start from the Summit Road near Rapaki Be Active New Brighton, Grace Vineyard Church, Rock. $5.00 to driver. Tuesdays starting 14 February, 1 – 2.30pm 9th March: Stan Helms Bridge Path (Lyttelton side) (2 hrs approx.) Be Active Bishopdale, Bishopdale YMCA, Walk up to the Summit Road on this realigned track then back down to Wednesdays starting 15 February, 7.45 – 8.45pm Lyttelton via The Bridle Path Track. Start from the top of Voleas Road, near Harmans Road, just before the reserve. Be Active Halswell, Te Hapua: Halswell Centre, 16th March: Greenwood Park (2 hrs approx.) Thursday starting 16 February, 1 – 2.30pm Rescheduled from September, this is an undulating walk with great views If you have any questions at all please feel free to contact Anna out over Sumner, Godley Head and Lyttelton Harbour. Start from Clifton Wilson on 03 373 5045 or email [email protected] Terrace near the bottom of Revelation Drive (up on Clifton Hill). 23rd March: Taylors Mistake-Boulder Bay-Godley Head Walk (Day walk) Rescheduled from October, take lunch, drinks, warm/waterproof clothing, Loburn Red Cross good shoes/boots. Walk along Pilgrims Way, then out to Godley Head. Return via Breeze Col Loop Track and Anaconda shared use track. Start Loburn Red Cross is continuing to provide an ‘all-you-can-eat’ afternoon from the Taylors Mistake car park near the surf club. tea and small country sales table during the months of February to 24th March: Rapaki Track (2 hrs approx). November for groups looking for a local outing. Walk up Rapaki Track to The Summit Road. Have a break looking out over Lyttelton then return the same way. Start from Hillsborough Terrace, just off The venue is the Loburn Reserve pavilion on the Loburn-Whiterock Centaurus Road (better for parking here), then walk along to Rapaki Road Road, just before the Karikaas Dutch cheese factory, and the cost and up to the start of the track. is $8.00 per person. 30th March: Drayton Reserve-Kildare Heights-Moncks Spur (2 hrs approx.) For enquiries and/or bookings please contact This is a combination of flat and hill walking featuring The Coastal Pathway, Mary Stewart on (03) 313-8393. McCormacks Bay and a reserve with great view from the top. This will be All money raised goes directly to the Red Cross. followed by coffee at The Spur Cafe for those who wish. Start from Redcliffs Park on the corner of Beachville Road and Celia Street (angle parking on We look forward to meeting some new groups. Celia Street). FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 25 Modern Volunteers Christmas luncheon Grannies Age Concern Canterbury volunteers are acknowledged at a Christmas luncheon. I have a little granny. She’s really very old. But also unconventional in the most unusual mould. She doesn’t wear her spectacles perched upon her nose, She wears contact lenses, and varnishes her toes.

Unlike some other grannies, who are home before it’s dark, She’s dressed up in her tracksuit, jig jogging in the park. And when I wish she’d sometimes stay and tuck me in my bed, From left: Trish Adams (Vice-President, Age Concern Canterbury), Simon Templeton She’s off to study yoga and standing (Chief Executive, Age Concern Canterbury), on her head. Annette Harris (President, Age Concern Canterbury) recognise the contribution made by our volunteers. Some grannies sit in rocking chairs and crochet shawls indoors, Garden City SeniorNet But my granny jumps upon a horse and rides across the moors. Garden City SeniorNet would She goes on day trips with her gang like to invite you to become a member of our Learning Centre. of the over sixties club, For a joining fee of $20.00 They rocket round the countryside plus reasonable class fees, and end up in the pub, you can learn many skills from And on the homeward journey, like our friendly tutors who will help you a flock of singing birds, get more from your laptop, tablet, They harmonise old favourites, with smartphone or home computer. very naughty words. For further information please phone 348 4499 or I love my little granny, I think she’s come to a ‘meet and greet’ really great, session on the Third Thursday of If that’s what growing old is like, the month from 12.15-1.00 pm at our Club Rooms, 3 Brake Street, well, I simply cannot wait. Church Corner, Upper Riccarton. Source: Unknown. Come along for an informal chat, Papanui Combined Probus Club we’d love to see you. Papanui Combined Probus Club welcomes new members in 2017. For interesting speakers, great TRADES outings and making new friends join us at monthly meetings. 1st Tuesday of the month at 9.45am in the Ground Floor Room at Papanui R.S.A, 1 Harewood Road, Christchurch. Good parking. BLOCKED DRAINS?? For more information WATERBLASTING?? contact Marie on 351 7708 Competitive Prices or Sian 359 0057. CANTERBURY An Angel? No! WATERBLAST LTD Caring help for ANYTIME - (03) 365-7960 Seniors at home - YES! MARY POTTER OASIS ROSS GALT LOCK AND ALARM LTD Regular or respite care HEALTH & BEAUTY COMMUNITY CENTRE 95 Kingsley Street offered by Carers 25 Conway St, Spreydon. Christchurch 442 DURHAM ST NORTH ST ALBANS Christchurch * Experienced in Occupational Senior Citizens Foot Care Phone Diversion. DO YOU LIVE IN THE ST ALBANS Treating hard thick nails calluses and corns, finishing with a foot masage. 365-0298 * Activities tailored to individual AREA OR NEARBY? FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY NEEDS needs, light shopping, gentle Price $30 (Time approximately 45mins). walks, crafts, music, cards, WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET Other Services paper/book reading, short car NEW FRIENDS AND JOIN IN SOCIAL Electrolysis - Waxing - Facials trips, chatting or just resting. ACTIVITIES AT THE CENTRE? Lash/Brown Tint/Shape - Massage For all electrical repairs Manicure and Pedicure * SPECIALISTS IN 4WD VEHICLES * Safe, respectful care in your own Cars, Trucks, Boats, Diesel, Agricultural Machinery - Forklifts home and lots of fun. IF SO PLEASE PHONE 372 9224 Therapist - Amanda Mobile Service Available FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Ph: 942-6036 for an appointment Full BATTERY SERVICE Contact Avryll Sixtus on Sales - Service - Testing OR TO RECEIVE A COPY OF THE Gift vouchers are available 349- 9730 or [email protected] ACTIVITIES PROGRAMME Phone (03) 348-7736 HOME VISITS AVAILABLE 5 Leslie Hills Drive, Riccarton, PO Box 8381 FEBRUARY 2017 26 KEEPING ON Salmon, the King of Fishes

by James Le Fanu ‘The salmon is accounted the King by drinking prodigious quantities and to accommodate osmosis, this time of Fishes,’ observed Izaac Walton in pumping out the ingested salt through in reverse. They stop feeding and The Complete Angler, the first and its gills, and retains the volume of live off accumulated fat stores, their most evocative of all fishing manuals, water within its body by restricting stomachs shrinking to make room published in 1653. And certainly a to a minimum the amount of urine it for their expanding reproductive salmon’s style of life is on a regal produces. organs. They recuperate from this scale, involving journeys of thousands Somehow young salmon make the first stage of their homeward journey, of miles to and from two very different necessary physiological adjustments living quietly in the shallow pools until residences - the upper reaches of predators. Their shape changes too, galvanised by that urge, like no other, from stubby to streamlined, making before launching themselves into the cold freshwater rivers, and the depths currents off the continental shelf that that will take them back up to their of the salty oceans. His progress them more suited for sustained breeding grounds. swimming over long distances. will convey them thousands of miles from one to the other and back again offshore to the ocean deeps, 5,000 As salmon fancier Richard Shelton But much more importantly, requires heroic feats of endurance feet beneath the surface, where imaginatively supposes: ‘His powerful the shift from fresh to sea water and athleticism, epitomised most no light penetrates. They will stay tail strokes drive him on and for a requires a wholesale physiological obviously by the dramatic spectacle there for up to four years, feeding few seconds he makes progress up of his leading upwards over weirs transformation to accommodate the off crustaceans such as prawns and the face of the waterfall, but the raw and waterfalls ‘to heights’, as Walton implacable law of osmosis, whereby shrimps, whose pinkish carapaces strength of the torrent bars his way noted, ‘beyond common belief’. the concentration of salts on either give the muscles of the growing sweeping him bodily downstream... The salmon’s life begins simply side of a cell membrane is held in salmon their characteristic colour. he recovers his poise and sets his enough as a fertilised egg which, equilibrium by the movement of water And how they grow - from just a few face once more to the irresistible roar once hatched along with thousands across it. Because the concentration ounces to twenty, thirty pounds or ahead. Again and again he leaps till of others buried beneath the gravelly of salts in the salmon’s blood and more, at four times the rate of any by chance he lands in the smoother bed of mountain streams, will grow internal fluids is considerably greater other fish. more streamlined flow to one side ... into the agile smolt, just a few inches than the fresh water in which it swims, Having banqueted so lavishly, they and the final triumphant flick of his long, its bronzed back and pearly broad tail takes him over the sill and osmosis would cause its tissues to are compelled by some mysterious sides spattered with black and green to the pool above.’ become rapidly waterlogged were it impulse to return home, guided, patches. Having ‘come home’, the female not for the countervailing measure no one knows how, across those The smolts then set out en masse for thousands of miles of featureless lays her eggs and the male supplies the sea, initially at a leisurely descent of drinking hardly anything while his contribution but, exhausted and its kidneys bypass voluminous ocean by some inscrutable instinct as they are carried downwards by the - culminating in their recognising emaciated, they are mere shadows of quantities of urine to eliminate the rising waters to the river mouth. There with almost supernatural precision, their former selves. The survivors, by water seeping inwards. The situation they undergo that subtle but profound the river from which they first set out now voraciously hungry, snap at any is reversed on entering the sea, metamorphosis that will prepare with a sense of smell so sensitive passing fly or insect as they prepare them for the next stage of their epic whose saltiness is four times greater. as to detect the unique odour of its once more to return to the ocean’s journey. Their livery changes to a Now the young salmon’s tissues are waters. depths. And so it has continued for sea blue with a highly reflective white prone to dehydration as its internal And now the salmon must once again tens of millions of years. belly, the better to avoid potential fluids leak outwards. It compensates (Source: The Oldie, September 2011) An unique experience makewith the physiological My adjustments India Tours

Seven hours flight from the wealth and poverty – people are that this was their best trip. I will Netherlands, over 2,000 kilometres hospitable and friendly. certainly return to India with Indrani. in a chauffeur driven mini-bus, and Born and educated in India, Indrani Travelling in a small group with 1,000 photos later, I look back at my has lived in NZ for over 45 years. friendly like-minded people, was amazing, wonderful and hassle free She specialises in escorted tours of stress-free - a dream come true for adventure with Indrani of My India up to 10 clients. Our party included a single person! Leisurely breakfasts Tours. one gent who had never travelled to a and dinners were a treat. We enjoyed India is a country of colour and foreign country before and some well- fabulous accommodation – opulent contrast, grandeur and simplicity, heeled travellers who commented and historic palaces converted into heritage hotels, were an experience in themselves. We felt safe, enjoyed a choice of delicious local or Western cuisine, and faultless service, nothing was overwhelming! It is impossible to choose a highlight - New Delhi with its wide tree lined avenues, Udaipur – the Venice of India was truly beautiful, the “Thank you for all your kindness majestic hill top forts of Jodhpur and along the way – for your careful Jaisalmer, camel riding in the desert, planning and consideration for all our the sun setting over the Taj Mahal, the little idiosyncrasies – life will never be frescos of Shekhawati, the colony of quite the same again!” Jill A migratory cranes from Mongolia, and inter-acting with locals, of course! Did MY INDIA TOURS, PO BOX 129, I mention the shopping? So many incredible sights along the way - the CHRISTCHURCH 8140 list is unending. E: [email protected], It was an unique travel experience I www.facebookcom/myindiatoursnz will never forget. FEBRUARY 2017 KEEPING ON 27 Marion’s 100th birthday celebration Marion Mabin recently celebrated her 100th went back to work on the farm in the school birthday at Bupa Parkstone Care Home. holidays. She was born in the Leeston Maternity Hospital Marion fondly remembers many family holidays and grew up on a farm, learning to ride horses, in the Marlborough Sounds, and spending winters including jumping the gorse fences. Marion’s family in Australia on Magnetic Island. After her husband kept a dairy cow, and had a live in housekeeper Ken passed away, Marion lived with Brian and who helped run the big kitchen that fed the family his partner Trudy for 20 years before moving into and farm workers. care. Marion is an Anglican, and played the organ at Initially, Marion moved into St Nicolas Care the Irwell Church. She attended primary school Home and then when it closed, she moved to in Leeston and then became a boarder at Rangi Bupa Parkstone Care Home. Brian and Marion Ruru Girls’ School. After finishing school, Marion returned to the say the staff and meals are fabulous and they Marion Mabin celebrating her 100th birthday enjoy the new building. Marion celebrated her farm. She married Ken, the Leeston BNZ Bank with her family Manager, and had a son Brian and a daughter Jill. servicemen, one of whom married Marion’s sister. 100th birthday surrounded by her family (photo After the Second World War, the family farm, After her sister was married, Marion moved into attached). Brian believes Bupa Parkstone Care called Waipuna, was split up by the Government ‘town’ and lived in the family home in Christchurch. Home is an excellent place to come for someone and parts of the farm were given to returned Marion kept chickens in her backyard, and Brian who needs care. A

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KEEPINGON POSTAL COPIES Keeping On Advertisers - book now Please send me the next 4 editions of the Keeping On magazine. Name: (Please print clearly) for a advertising space in the Address: May 2017 issue of Keeping On. Date: A payment of $15.00 is attached to cover The deadline is Friday, 21 April 2017. postage and packing (no cash please). Post: Keeping On, Age Concern Canterbury, 24 Main North Rd, Papanui. Christchurch 8053. Please contact Anna-Marie on 331-7804. FEBRUARY 2017 28 KEEPING ON Age-group politics do older people vote selfishly?

by Judith Davey One of the threats foreseen by addressing the concerns and needs those who subscribe to the disaster/ of older people? Although there may burden perspective on population be concerns about retirement income ageing is that older people will use support and access to health services, their numbers as voters to dominate beyond this the political interests of the political agenda. Linked to this is older people are as varied as in other the belief that people become more sections of the electorate. Older conservative as they age and will citizens do not vote only according vote accordingly. How much truth is to what matters to them as seniors; there in this? they are clearly concerned about the We know a lot more about if people future of their children and grand- vote than how they vote. It is very children. clear that, in New Zealand and many to get out to vote to counteract any wars and depressions, with an In some countries political parties similar countries, the proportion of selfish tendencies! experience of deprivation, are more have emerged to represent the people who vote increases with age. According to research by political likely to be conservative than those interests of older people. Their In recent general elections, around scientists there is limited support who grew up during a post-WWII fortunes will wax and wane, so it 95% of New Zealanders aged 65 for the idea that voters necessarily affluence. Changes in electoral is difficult to find the most recent plus have voted, compared to 61% become more conservative as they systems can also affect voting information, and none seem to have of those aged 18 to 24 and around age. Instead, most argue that much patterns, for example, MMP gives a gained much political influence. Here 80% of people in the intervening age of the difference between older and potential voice to smaller parties. are some examples: groups. If older people are voting younger voters is linked to cohort Then there are the platforms of In 2006, after failure in five previous selfishly, then younger people need effects. People who grew up during political parties to consider. Are they elections, the Israeli Retired Persons Party garnered enough votes to enter the Knesset (parliament). It won Freedom and peace of mind seven seats out of 120 members, and became part of the ruling coalition, Nestled amidst 2.4 hectares of Fields. Instead, Barton Fields was “The freehold title ownership model is heading the Ministry of Health and landscaped grounds on the fringe of created around the Unit Titles Act, far more transparent than the licence the Ministry of Older Persons. Lincoln, Barton Fields is a lifestyle allowing residents to purchase their to occupy model”, he says. “Freehold In the late 1990s there were community with an ownership own villas just as one would a normal ownership gives the owner more two senior parties (Union 55+ and structure that provides both freedom home. options and means any capital gain General Senior Alliance) in the and peace of mind. The villa becomes their own in every is theirs, and theirs alone.” Dutch parliament. They had a few Despite being designed specifically respect; an asset they can borrow Built by the award-winning seats (2 or 3) but they were not very for older residents, Barton Fields is against, sell whenever they want, Mike Greer Homes, the villas successful because of dissention certainly not your average ‘retirement or pass on to other family members. are highly customisable, with between them. village’. In fact, it’s an exclusive And because there is no Deferred seven unique floorplans and four What do we have in NZ? On June enclave of quality homes surrounded Management Fee (i.e. Barton Fields different colour palettes. Facilities by communal gardens and sprawling doesn’t take a percentage on the 7, 2016, the New Zealand Herald within the development include an reserves; a vibrant community where resale), the owner of each villa will headlined “New political party architecturally designed Community people over the age of 55 can enjoy reap the rewards of any increase in represents older New Zealanders”. Hall and an array of walkways and an invigorating lifestyle without the value. According to this article, the New cycle ways, while the proximity to stress of maintaining a large home It’s a model that’s been praised by Zealand Seniors Party planned to and its accompanying grounds. investment experts including Paul everything from the local golf course register as an official party to run Unlike most traditional ‘retirement Rickerby, Director of Christchurch to the charming township of Lincoln candidates in the 2017 election. villages’ in this country, there’s no accountants and financial advisors ensures everything you could ever Licence to Occupy policy at Barton Moore Stephens and Markhams. need is within easy reach. A Some of the party’s key platform issues appear narrow – fighting  the “unfair” deduction of overseas pensions, suspending immigration (linked to hospital waiting lists) and a :` QJ 1VCR 1`V 7CV1CC:R 1JHQCJ ‘Living Wage’ pension for seniors. A Grey Power response was skeptical #:`VR#VH%`VR 1`V 7CV – maintaining that this was a “one- issue party” to which they would  not be aligned. However, looking ``QI$ 5 in more detail at the policies of the  New Zealand Seniors Party, as set .7C10V1.VJ7Q%H:JC10V:C1`V 7CV-  out on their web site, they seem to  %`RGVR`QQI01CC::`V``VV.QCR 1 CVJQ C1HVJHV QQHH%]78`VV.QCRQ1JV`.1] have a wider platform, with wide- $10V7Q%IQ`VQ] 1QJ:JRIV:JH:]1 :C$:1J1 11 .7Q%5 .V]`Q]V` 7Q1JV`8 ranging views on health, education,  V :@VH:`VQ`7Q%`C:1J5$:`RVJ:JRV6 V`J:C.QIVI:1J VJ:JHV``VV1J$7Q%%] Q employment and housing. VJ=Q7:CC .: #1JHQCJ:JR$VC17J.:0V QQ``V`RGQ1C5$QC`5`V :%`:J 5%]V`I:`@V 5 “The NZ Seniors Party exists C1G`:`75RQH Q`5H.VI1 :JR:.:JR7.Q]]1J$HVJ `V:JRI%H.5I%H.IQ`V8 for the common good of all New  %`Q%RC7G%1C G7&1@V'`VV`(QIV:JR11 .:7V:`&: V`+%1CR'%:`:J VV8 Zealanders……but with an emphasis on the needs of seniors. All will get $:CC% Q`1JRQ% :GQ% Q%`C: V ]`QIQ 1QJQ``V$1 V`7Q%`1J V`V 1JQ%`# :$V01CC:     old eventually and what is good for  1118G:` QJ`1VCR01CC:8HQ8J< seniors now is good for those that follow.” Next year we will see how they go. (Source: Abridged from the post Dec.,

VCC:I7;  V:C : V R 1HVJ VR ^ _ 2016 by Age Concern NZ ‘on research’).