SUMMER 2018 QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER www.ageconcernotago.com Otago He Manaakitanga Kaumātua o Otakou Age Concern Otago Serving the needs of older people Celebrating Otago’s older people since 1948

For advertising phone Monique (07) 577 9092 or email [email protected] A Pukeko Print & Design Ltd publication | www.pukekoprint.co.nz | Please refer to website for disclaimer 2 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people SUMMER 2018 3

From the Executive Officer Driving Miss Daisy Contact Information Brighten up your festive Hello everyone and welcome to season your companion DUNEDIN OFFICE SUMMER! I have a feeling we’re Phone: (03) 477 1040 in for a long, hot one. I would For many, Christmas is a time of family and your driver! Email: [email protected] like to take this opportunity togetherness, the sharing of meals, relaxing No.1 Address: 9 The Octagon, Dunedin 9016 to wish you all a very happy together over a holiday break, youngsters playing Z’s N

Postal Address: PO Box 5355, Dunedin 9054 Christmas and New Year. whilst the adults watch on. Backyard cricket, S

bbq’s, afternoon siestas, long days at the beach, C R O E V CENTRAL OTAGO - ALEXANDRA OFFICE MOVING IN WITH FAMILY: camping, picnics packed in chilly bins and M I P R Phone: (03) 448 7075 Multi-generational households Christmas cake with a cuppa. It’s a wonderful ANION D Email: [email protected] can seem the answer to everyone’s problems…and season and we’re so lucky to live in this beautiful Address: Alexandra Community House, 12-20 they can be, providing support and companionship country that offers such natural beauty and Centennial Avenue, Alexandra 9320 for old and young. However, unclear or informal wonderful outdoor activities. arrangements can lead to discomfort, family dissent, OFFICE HOURS elder abuse and even homelessness. There are many In contrast, the festive season can also be a time of 9.00am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday things to think about and do before deciding to move in with family - here are some suggestions: many; remembering loved ones and reminiscing of Service information available on our website: wonderfulquiet reflection, Christmases contemplation and holidays and memories gone by. for www.ageconcernotago.com 1. Talk frankly about the issues and assumptions Keep your independence and involved. e.g. what questions do you have about Like us on Facebook - Age Concern Otago freedom with our safe, reliable finances and what questions do others involved At Driving Miss Daisy, we love this time of year have? Does everyone share common expectations and want to help you remain as active and companion driving service. about finances, personal spaces, personal independent as possible so that you can enjoy the We can drive and accompany you to: possessions, food, cooking, caregiving, transport, traditions of the season. We provide a number of The views expressed in this newsletter are not different services to assist you – here are a few • Medical and other appointments necessarily those of Age Concern Otago. noise and friends? Don’t assume anything - write ideas: The inclusion or exclusion of any product does not a list and go through each issue one-by-one, • Family/social occasions mean that the publisher advocates or rejects its use. noting down your agreements and where there is a • Christmas card shopping & posting need for further thinking and conversations. • Christmas gift shopping for loved ones • Shopping trips • Clothes shopping for special occasions • Scenic drives 2. If you are looking at merging your financial • Companion driving to end of year functions & • Take your pets to the vet interests, for example by selling your house, get events independent legal advice and record expectations • Companion driving to church & carol services • Airport drop-offs and pick ups and agreements in writing. Don’t use the lawyer • Grocery shopping for special Christmas meals Cerebral Palsy GOT vouchers and Total that your family is using - get your own as they will and treats Mobility vouchers accepted be advising in your best interests only. • Airport and transport transfers (including at departure and arrival ports) ACC approved provider 3. Consider if your move is reversible if you or your • Christmas light tours family’s needs and choices change? This is Bookings are essential - call today and make • Festive outings with a group of friends very important as often there are changes your next outing a pleasure! Dunedin C004218 AC that take place within your family’s lives that Driving Miss Daisy is committed to helping our Ribbonwood is a small country home offering rest may impact upon you. Small children can become home and hospital level care. Located in the heart difficult teenagers, marriages can break down clients get out and about, so they can live life to Dunedin North Ph: (03) 467 5017 the full and make the most of every moment. of West Otago in Tapanui, Ribbonwood is a place and finances can become a problem. Similarly, Dunedin South Ph: (03) 486 2033 you will feel proud to call home. you may require full-time care or can no longer live Remember that many of our franchise owners It is a modern care facility with spacious, safely in the space provided for you. have fully equipped Wheelchair Accessible private rooms for residents and Ensure you have options available to you to move Vehicles, to assist with walkers or wheelchairs. sunny lounges for relaxing. elsewhere (and with adequate finances) in the event of these changes. Call us today to discuss your festive season Contact Karen McHutchon for more information requirements. If there’s something you need help Phone 03 204 8668 4. What will your day-to-day life be like? Moving away with we’d be happy to talk through the options. www.drivingmissdaisy.co.nz Email: [email protected] Continued on Page 4 Editorial supplied by Driving Miss Daisy Pulling the Plug – a poem for Marg When my girlfriend died several years ago I thought I’d4 keepAGE an eye CONCERN on her Mum. | Serving We both the loved needs gardening, of older people SUMMER 2018 5 baking and clothes shopping so we had heaps in common and used to have many a trip into town to ‘check out’ and purchase the new season’s clothing. Marg always used to say to me - “Don’t take me to any old ladies’ shops Ruth!” She was only in her 80s so I thought that was a reasonable request! When she became frailer I would often Pulling the Plug – a poem for Marg from a family home or familiar neighbourhood Property Solutions for the Elderly go down and read at her place while she had a bath or sometimes can be she especially was just happychallenging for me when to be it at means my place but Hello from the Reception withinWhen cooee my girlfriend if she got died stuck! several We became years ago the Ibest thought of mates I’d keep - our an friendship eye on her was Mum. ageless We :-) both loved gardening, Estate Property Solutions is a Dunedin owned family baking and clothes shopping so we had heaps in common andmoving used awayto have from many a life a historytrip into of town experiences to ‘check and out’ Desk! long established networks and support systems. run business that can assist you with all the details and purchase the newPulling season’s the plugclothing. Marg always used to say toSighing me - “Don’tshe looks take at me her to body, any old her ladies’ skin shops Here we are at the end of another year! I trust you all of an estate so that you don’t have to. We don’t just Ruth!” She was only in forher 80sMarg so I thought that was a reasonableThings torequest! considernow constantly When regarding she bathed became the spacein frailerwrinkles. you I would will be often are enjoying the longer and warmer days. The office do estates but have a wealth of knowledge and can living in if you move in with family: manage a wide range of services. go downShe and no read longer at her feels place confident while she in thehad bath.a bath or sometimesThere she was will justbe no happy leaping for me today. to be A decision,at my place but is a buzz of pre-Christmas excitement. With all the within cooee if she got stuck! We became the best of mates• -Your our friendshiplevel of health was orageless disability :-) in relation to craziness that comes with the holidays please take Check out our website: You hear of people getting stuck, she says. to pull the plug before or after disembarking. access to your living space - avoid slopes to the care on the roads and allow extra time to get where www.estatepropertysolutions.co.nz Pulling the plug Sighing she looks at her body, her skin This morning with planning and precision, frontWith door slips and in having mind it’sto usea matter stairs of if ensuringpossible you need to go, we want everyone to welcome the Summer is here and it’s a great time of year to think courage and care,for Margshe takes the plunge. • Are thenow bathroom constantly facilities bathed suitable in wrinkles. for your level New Year safely. about having a good clear out. We can help with house of health orthe disability softest landing- are there but grab then, rails and cleaning, decluttering advise or assistance. We can SheShe no allows longer the feels water confident to take herin the weight, bath. There will be no leaping today. A decision, I would like to welcome all of the new Meals on Holiday Hours there’seasy access the possibility into the shower of drowning. or bath? She lies there, help you with rubbish removal, tidy up of garden along Youwatches hear herof people toes bob getting up like stuck white, she horses. says. • Doto you pull have the pluga kitchen before area or after to cook disembarking. your own Wheels drivers that have come on board this year, with any maintenance jobs around the house. Maybe watches the water draining away. Age Concern Dunedin and Alexandra meals/make cups of tea and toast or will you and a big thank you to existing and retired Volunteer you need some painting done we can do that too. We ThisAdrift morning she remembers, with planning childish and precision, delight shareWith with slips family? in mind it’s a matter of ensuring drivers, without your dedication we could not support offices will be closed from can do as much or as little as you need. Do you have a courage and care, she takes the plunge. All hands on deck she murmurs as she negotiates when skin turned prune-like. • Is it a dry andthe softestwell insulated landing environment but then, and garage full of unwanted stuff? We can clear it out for her emergence. so many of Dunedin’s older people. Wednesday 19 December 2018 She allows the water to take her weight, therefore easier to keep warm? you. Do you live out of town? No worries we are happy The leaping, squealing, shivering, before there’s the possibility of drowning. She lies there, I wish you all a happy and safe holiday season. Take until Monday 14 January 2019. to do out of town work for you. watchessnuggling her toes into bob the up towel’slike white hug. horses. • Is thereReaching sufficient for space the phone for you she to callssee visitorsme. in watches the water draining away. care and keep an eye on each other. If you need any help managing the tasks of a property privateYou’re and off stay duty over bosun, if so desired?I’m safely ashore. SquirmingAdrift she as remembers, Mother rubbed childish hair delight dry and Messages left on our main answer no matter how big or small maybe we can help carry • AllAccess hands to on local deck services she murmurs and recreation as she negotiates - can Cheers, whentickled skin turnedbetween prune-like. toes. you easily get to theRuth Bank, Arnison Post Shop, Doctor’s phone (03) 477 1040 will be you through the process. her emergence. Call us at Estate Property Solutions 0800 00 11 26 The leaping, squealing, shivering, before Surgery, Library and any clubs or groups you Fiona McMillan cleared regularly. or 027 878 9473. alreadyReaching belong tofor or the would phone like she to joincalls me. Independentsnuggling Living into the Guide towel’s hug. [email protected] We are launching a new Independent Living Guide which You’re off duty bosun, I’m safely ashore. Squirming as Mother rubbed hair dry and Finally: It would be helpful to think of someone you Normal hours will resume is full of all sorts of information and ideas to help you tickled between toes. trust who is a good listenerRuth Arnison and independent of your Monday 14 January 2019. Carrying you live well safely and happily. Topics are: family that you can talk your plans over with. Also through the process consider who may be available to help you if you have IndependentImportant Numbers Living Guide Meals on Wheels will continue Monday to Living Well and Getting Older a dispute with your family. We are launching a new Independent Living Guide which Friday including statutory days as usual. Changes with Ageing is full of all sorts of information and ideas to help you Communicating About Your Health live well safely and happily. Topics are: The Octagon Club will close from Monday Eating Well for Good Health Debbie George Important Numbers Executive Officer 17 December 2018 until Monday 14 January It’s Never Too Late to Start Doing Exercise 2019. LivingHeat is Well a Health and Getting Matter Older Da tat ChangesBeing Well with Within Ageing Find your local hearing South Dunedin Seniors will close Thursday Aga oato CommunicatingHappy Minds About Your Health Eating Well for Good Health experts at Audiology South 13 December 2018 and reopen on Thursday 14 au a a Depression February 2019. It’sAbuse Never and Too Neglect Late to are Start Not DoingOK Exercise oag au HeatFalls isAre a NotHealth a Natural Matter Part of Ageing Free hearing check. Up to 60 day Trial Period on all hearing aids. Ministry of health or ACC Funding Available Mosgiel Seniors Bowling Group are already ull house cleanin and cleanup BeingMake WellYour WithinHome a Safe Place in most cases. Locally Owned and Independent. closed for this year and will reopen on Thursday isposal of unwanted oods HappyGetting Minds Out Expert Professional Care. 7 February 2019. eclutter adice and assistance DepressionGetting About Abuse and Neglect are Not OK ardenin and section clearin Join a Club Bring in this ad to receive $200 o selected hearing aids Falls Are Not a Natural Part of Ageing aintenance and repairs of buildins Otago When it comes to your hearing you really should trust Prepare your Affairs He Manaakitanga Independent Living Kaumatua o Otakou Make Your Home a Safe Place Celebrating Otago’s older people since 1948 the experts. Call for your FREE hearing check. rranin for sale of oods Assessing Your Needs A Guide for Health and Wellbeing PLEASE SUPPORT Getting Out Thinking of Moving AUDIOLOGY Dunedin Clinic: Getting About Cnr Moray Place and Filleul Street o House? Phone: 03 471 5866 OUR ADVERTISERS Join a Club SOUTH Clinics also in Queenstown, Invercargill, Their support enables the production of this Ea otatotoutoo Gore, Winton, Mosgiel and Te Anau. Look out for it soon at Hearing Health Professionals Otago www.audiologysouth.co.nz newsletter, so please support them. Prepare your Affairs He Manaakitanga Independent Living Kaumatua o Otakou Assessingthe Age Concern Your Needs offices. Celebrating Otago’s older people since 1948 A Guide for Health and Wellbeing Editorial supplied by Estate Property Solutions Thinking of Moving 6 House? Look out for it soon at the Age Concern offices. 6 6 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people SUMMER 2018 7

International Volunteer Day ESTATE SERVICES MADE EASY assessed with From Central Otago valuable items December 5th 2018 is International Volunteer Estate of Grace is a new local family owned sold and the Its been a great year with Age Concern in Central Day. All around the world people celebrated business that prides itself on providing a caring balance of goods Otago running two seminars on how best to live and recognised volunteer contribution to their and holistic approach to estate services. They are shared across six independently and two on senior’s driving safe communities. Age Concern Otago showed their focused on doing the best for the client, family local charitable and one Senior Chef. We hope that we will run a appreciation at the annual Volunteer evening on and their estate by maximising value and making organisations. similar line up in 2019 so keep an eye out for these Wednesday 5 December 2018. a difference to the community with options to The house was then fully wonderful seminars for us older adults to keep Each year, over 1000 plus people and organisations whenever possible. cleaned and independent happy and healthy. within our region volunteer and donate valuable support local charities and non-profit organisations staged, including time to Age Concern Otago. The wonderful volunteer Andrew Whiley, and his wife Jackie, established the the garden, to With Christmas coming up I keep thinking of those visitors; our Peer Leaders for falls prevention classes; business seeing the many issues facing the elderly ensure that without family so please keep in mind the fantastic people who deliver hot meals; no matter what the down-sizing and families dealing with estates. the client was able to maximise the selling price. Christmas Lunch at the Enochs Church in Alexandra weather; the groups who pack the magazine and Today, families often don’t live locally; distance His quote says it all. “In view of what the place at midday on Christmas Day, this is always a fantastic deliver them in the community; professional experts looked like before they went in, I think they’ve free celebration, if you think you may be interested in who assist in governance and guidance. You are all required when dealing with an estate. This includes worked a miracle. The place inside and out looks coming along please contact me on (03) 448 7075. truly inspiring and we are grateful for your support thecan challengemake it difficult of transitioning to balance elderly the physical parents tasks to a fantastic”. and commitment. I have some fantastic Christmas presents that have retirement facility. Estate of Grace been donated by the Clyde Four Square so if I have process! Estate of Grace can also assist those that wish simplifies the missed anyone please ring and I can also drop off a to pre-plan how their estate is handled. Feel parcel for you. A recent client engaged the company to look after free to contact Andrew to discuss how Estate of the estate of his late Mother. Household goods were Grace can assist you! Editorial supplied by Estate of Grace I would like to think I will get around to visit most of you before Christmas but if I don’t I hope you all enjoy the time and look forward to seeing you in 2019.

Marie Roxburgh Accredited Visiting Service Central Otago Coordinator (AVS)

I would like to take this time Estate of Grace is a local family owned business that prides itself on providing a caring to thank each and every one and holistic approach to estate services. The company works with families, lawyers, of you who have contributed executors and trustees to provide services to simplify the estate management process. to the Visiting Service over the Personalised services include: • Assistance with Downsizing & Relocating to Retirement Facilities past year. You have made a • Professional Estate Clean-up from the staff of considerable difference to the • Asset Inventories - including video-graphic and photographic lives of many older people. The • Estate Liquidation Age Concern Otago • Packing & Moving festive season can be a very lonely time for many. If • Storage Arrangements - Short and Long-term you are heading away or taking a break then it might • Shipping Services for Local and International Items We wish you a sharing be nice if you write a note, send an email or even • Rubbish Removal make a quick call to those you visit to remind them • Home Staging and Property Preparation for Sale • Rest-Home Pack-Up Services and caring Christmas. that you are thinking of them. I wish you all a very • Options for asset liquidation including Garage Sale, Trade Me and Auction Services May you receive peace and joy, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and I look to Maximise Return forward to meeting up with you all in 2019. • Working with non-profit, community and charitable organisations for donations of and a safe and happy holiday! unwanted goods Kind regards, Phone: 027 465 3222 (Andrew Whiley) | Email: [email protected] Tristan Kavanagh www.estateofgrace.nz Accredited Visiting Service (AVS) 8 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people SUMMER 2018 9

Holiday Safety Tips It is better to give...safely Preventing Falls in a Social HealthCare New Zealand is part of a national When choosing toys for infants or small children it is network of experienced and trained professionals. Our Holiday safety is an issue that burns brightest from important to avoid small parts that might become a Group person centred approach means we work alongside late November to mid-January when families and choking hazard. Here are some additional gift-related people and their family each step of the way, with friends gather, parties are scheduled and travel safety tips: Age Concern Otago’s Steady As You Go© and Tai Chi a personalised support plan that incorporates the individual’s needs and goals. spikes. Some basic precautions to ensure you remain • Select gifts for older adults that are not heavy or Falls Prevention programmes have grown to 100 safe and injury free throughout the season. awkward to handle. classes throughout Otago with 1800 participants. We have a proven track-record of successful outcomes Two new classes have just started and another two working with people who have either basic or very Even angel hair can hurt • Be aware of dangers associated with coin lithium are starting in the new year, in Brighton and Ocean complex support needs. Our tailored services can Putting up decorations is one of the best ways to get batteries; of particular concern is the ingestion of Grove. These programmes are well researched and typically include help with: in a holiday mood, but can cause injuries in the home button batteries. proven to improve strength and balance, increase • Washing, dressing, grooming and toileting as well. • See which toys have been recalled. socialisation and prevent falls. An estimated 500 • Preparing and managing meals • “Angel hair,” made from spun glass, can irritate • For answers to more of your holiday toy safety falls were prevented in the past year and many • Shopping and home management needs your eyes and skin - always wear gloves or questions, check out www.consumerprotection.govt.nz • Taking medication safely friendships made. These classes are run in Dunedin substitute non-flammable cotton. • Exercises to help increase mobility and strength Watch out for those fire-starters suburbs and rural townships throughout Otago by • Spraying artificial snow can irritate your lungs if • Assistance to achieve mobility goals such as Fires, burns and other fire-related injuries every year trained, volunteer Peer Leaders. The volunteer aspect inhaled - follow directions carefully. walking to the park cause thousands of deaths. Increased use of candles enables the classes to remain affordable. • Decorate the tree with kids in mind - move and BBQs, combined with an increase of decorations • Learning new skills to manage symptoms of any ornaments that are breakable or have metal hooks illness you have such as breathing exercises for present a fire risk. Tai Chi is great for balance, relaxation, flexibility, toward the top. people with respiratory problems • Never leave a lit BBQ unattended. strengthening, general fitness, breathing and mental • Always use the proper, supported stepladder - do • Being part of a community group, club or activity • Have a fire extinguisher ready at all times. focus. Steady As You Go© includes seated, standing, programme. not stand on chairs or other furniture. • Never leave burning candles unattended or sleep balance, strengthening and walking exercises. • Lights are among the best parts of holiday HealthCare New Zealand is community-based and in a room with a lit candle. Techniques to walk safely are given to help avoid decorating - make sure there are no exposed or committed to supporting the people of Otago. • Keep candles out of reach of children. trips and slips. Participants consistently report more frayed wires, loose connections or broken sockets. • Make sure candles are on stable surfaces. independence and ease with daily living tasks, an • Plants can spruce up your holiday decorating, but • Do not burn candles near trees, curtains or any extensive list of health benefits and of course a keep those that may be poisonous (including other flammable items. reduction in the incidents of falls. One of our Peer some Poinsettias) out of reach of children or pets • Do not burn trees, wreaths or wrapping paper in Leaders says: “What a big difference the classes - The New Zealand National Poisons Centre can be the fireplace. make. I see people standing taller, walking with reached on 0800 764 766. • Check and clean the chimney and fireplace area at confidence and moving more freely. Everyone really • Make sure paths are clear so no one trips over least once a year. looks forward to attending for the social aspects wrapping paper, decorations, toys, etc. Do not give the gift of food poisoning where there is always fun and laughter, friendships Here are some food safety tips for the holidays: formed and people often go out for coffee afterwards • Do not rinse raw meat and poultry in warm/hot and stay connected.” water before cooking - run the cold tap for a few t o a o a a ooa ta seconds first. So, if you are in the older age bracket and are looking o oa ag a g ua ta a uot What makes • Use a food thermometer to make sure meat is for an enjoyable and affordable activity to improve ou to t ou o o cooked to a safe temperature. your balance and mobility, and a chance to get out of e can proide ou with the followin serices you smile ? • Refrigerate food within two hours. the house, one of our much-loved Steady As You Go© ersonal care, such as support with dressin, bathin • Bring sauces, soups and gravies to a rolling boil or Tai Chi classes might be right for you. and showerin when reheating. ursin serices Whatever it is, • When storing food, cut the leftovers in small pieces Check out www.ageconcernotago.com to find a ome are serices, includin support with cleanin, washin and rocer shoppin we guarantee you so they will chill quickly. class near you or contact Margaret at Age Concern oal based serices that enable ou to ain reater will feel comfortable • Wash your hands frequently when handling food. Otago on (03) 479 3052 or email: and confident. strenth, confidence and mobilit. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday season and look [email protected] to enrol! forward to seeing you in 2019. If you prefer another option for a Strength and ur serices are full certified and in some cases ma be free Balance class, check out the Live Stronger for Longer for eliible residents. e also support priatel pain clients. Full & partial dentures 0800 Repairs and relines 500 730 website. o o oato aout o a uot ou www.thelab.co.nz Snoring appliances thelabsmile Something to Smile About Kristen Beardsmore a o o t atao Health Promotion Coordinator Editorial supplied by HealthCare NZ 10 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people SUMMER 2018 11

Falls Prevention Fun in the Sun Changes to Community I feel a great deal of gratitude to our Steady As You Now that the weather is heating up, and we are Services Card Go© and Tai Chi Peer Leaders all over Otago! They all participating in more outside activities remember to do such a wonderful job with our 65 Steady As You prepare for the warmer weather. Be aware of your As from the 1st December 2018 Go© classes and 27 Tai Chi classes in Dunedin city, elderly neighbours, children and those with health • the eligibility for a community services card is also the Peninsula, Port Chalmers, Waitati, Waikouaiti, conditions as these are the people that can be the being extended to people living in public housing Palmerston, Mosgiel, Allanton, Outram, Waihola, most vulnerable to the heat. and accommodation supplement recipients. • low cost visits to doctors will be subsidised for Milton, Kaitangata, Balclutha, Roxburgh, Alexandra, Things to remember; Clyde, Cromwell, Ranfurly and Wanaka! Age Concern community card holders if the general practice • Protect yourself from harmful UV rays by using a chooses to participate in the scheme. Otago is very proud of its falls prevention programme. 50+ sunscreen, wearing a hat and covering up or New Steady As You Go© classes have started this year staying out of the sun in the hottest part of the Current income threshold to be eligible is: in Mosgiel, St Clair and Concord. Next year Steady As day. • single living alone $29,299 You Go© classes are planned to start in Ocean Grove • Stay hydrated - remember to drink extra water on • single sharing accommodation $27,571 and Brighton. warm days. If you are drinking alcohol alternate • married/civil union or those in de facto “The group is very welcoming. We get together and with water in between drinks. relationships $43,872 Some comments from new participants: have a few laughs.” • Use a cool face cloth on the back of the neck to • receiving NZ Superannuation help cool yourself down. “I’m loving it. Both for my body and for the “You don’t need to stress if you have a pain because • If exercising - try to do so early in the morning Contact: companionship with people of my own age.” you know you do not need to do everything.” or later in the evening when the sun is not at its • MSD call centre on 0800 999 999 if you think you strongest. might be eligible The Tai Chi Peer Leaders recertified as Tai Chi for • Your local GP to find out if your doctor will be Arthritis instructors this year and recently showed offering these subsidised low cost doctors visits their skills in a more advanced Sun 73 workshop. Disability Make sure over the Christmas holiday you get some Information exercise to keep up your strength, balance and Service flexibility. Incorporate exercise as much as possible into your daily routine and always be aware of what WALKING FRAMES your feet are doing! You can exercise core muscles WHAT WE OFFER: by sitting away from the back of your chair to sustain • Free Information & Advice your own posture. Diaphragm breathing also assist • Equipment & Assistive Aids these postural muscles. Ankles can be kept flexible • Continence Product Service by exercising feet when watching TV. This is excellent • Assessors for the Total when travelling too as it keeps blood flowing to help Mobility Scheme avoid cramp or deep vein thrombosis. Give your legs On the sixth day of Christmas my • Mobile Service across Otago HEALTH SOCKS a work out too by climbing stairs or hills and doing some sit to stands from a chair. true love gave to me, Shop in comfort Six rugby players, and privacy with Remember too that good hydration of brain and Five chocolate fish, body is essential to prevent falls. The summer heat, the support of our Four sausage sizzles, friendly staff alcohol, tea and coffee dehydrate the body, so extra care is required. Three white sheep, VISIT US AT: PEDAL EXERCISER Two boogie boards, Dunedin Community House, Have a fabulous Christmas and New Year! Cnr Moray Place and Great King Street, Dunedin And a meat pie from the local dairy. Phone: (03) 471 6152 or 0800 693 342 Email: [email protected] www.disabilityinfo.co.nz Margaret Dando Falls Prevention Coordinator 12 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people SUMMER 2018 13

surprisingly, this is associated with the burgeoning ineffective treatments for improving the symptoms Dunedin City’s only locally owned Cure Mongering: the case number of publications on medical cannabis. These associated with dementia.” of Medical Cannabis have increased almost 9-fold since the year 2000. and operated funeral home The most significant number of publications was in The words that we clinicians use matter particularly Gillions is one of only two locally owned and operated A/Prof Yoram Barak, MD, MHA. the field of psychiatry. The specific indications with in relation to drug policy. The medical cannabis funeral homes in the greater Dunedin area - the Otago University Medical School, Department of the largest number of publications were HIV and industry is comparable to the tobacco and gambling other being Campbell and Sons in Mosgiel. Gillions Psychological Medicine, Dunedin, New Zealand. chronic pain. industries. Is there much that we clinicians can is a third-generation company with connections that do about the politics behind policies? Probably go back to the Victorian era. Our building, in Hillside Disease mongering is the peddling of sickness that Medical cannabis has received widespread not. Abusing cannabis outside the indications widens the boundaries of illness and grows the attention as a treatment for various chronic medical highlighted by the NASEM report might cause users converted in the early sixties into a funeral home. markets for those who sell and deliver treatments. It conditions, including pain. Although the growing to feel unfairly judged if labelled as drug users, but AlthoughRoad - originally it is over the 100 South years Dunedin old, our fire facilities station are - was is exemplified most explicitly by many pharmaceutical support for state legalization has led to its approval pretending that cannabis is anything but a drug is modern. industry-funded disease-awareness campaigns. for medical use in most of the 50 USA states, perhaps doing them an equal disservice. Drug companies are by no means the only players enthusiasm for medical cannabis has been based in this tragedy. Informal alliances of pharmaceutical really dedicated to helping grieving families. We largely on anecdotal information. The National Link: belongOur staff to are professional trained, qualified bodies (FDANZ and experienced & NZIFH) and corporations, public relations companies, doctors’ Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, groups, and patient advocates promote these ideas which means we have support, ongoing professional (NASEM) report on the health effects of cannabis and Medicine. The Health Effects of Cannabis development and standards to adhere to. to the public and policymakers - often using mass published recently arrived at nearly 100 different and Cannabinoids: The Current State of Evidence media to drive a certain view of a particular health research conclusions related to cannabis use and and Recommendations for Research. Washington If you are thinking about pre-planning or pre- problem. We have been much less aware of “Cure health. Of these very few conclusions reached the (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2017 Jan payment towards your funeral - get in touch - our Mongering.” The concept was first mentioned 25 level of “conclusive or substantial evidence” on 12. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/ friendly team are there to help you. years ago in the first issue of the International effectiveness or risk. Cannabis use was effective for NBK423845/ doi: 10.17226/24625 Phone 03 455 2128 or email us at Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine the treatment of chronic pain in adults; antiemetic in [email protected] wherein a scathing piece accusing practitioners the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and of alternative medicine of cure-mongering was vomiting and for improving patient-reported multiple published. The parallels between disease mongering sclerosis spasticity symptoms. Risk was substantial Joke Corner and cure mongering abound and the campaign for for motor vehicle crashes and the development of Q. What do you call a kid who doesn’t believe in “medical” cannabis may be the most extravagant schizophrenia or other psychoses, with the highest Santa? case of cure mongering to date. We’re locally and risk among the most frequent users. Of special A. A rebel without a Claus. interest to older adults and people suffering from family owned and Driven by profits it is predicted that over the next dementia is the question of using medical cannabis Q. What do you call an elf who sings? 10 years, the legal cannabis industry will see much for dementia and particularly Alzheimer’s disease. A. A wrapper! operated which progress. Spending on legal cannabis worldwide is The NASEM report found not only that there is means we’ll always expected to hit $57 billion by 2027. Medical cannabis no benefit in using medical cannabis for people Q. What does Santa bring naughty boys and girls will take up 33% of this market and the largest group suffering from Alzheimer’s disease but rather that: on Christmas Eve? be here when you of cannabis buyers will be in North America. Not “…there is limited evidence that cannabinoids are A. A pack of batteries with a note saying “toy not included”. need us

As a little girl climbed onto Santa’s lap, Santa > Great quality dentures Able Feet Podiatry Ltd asked the usual, “And what would you like for Compassionate guidance, Dunedin’s New Home Visit Service and dental repairs Christmas?” support and advice 24/7 > House calls to the greater The child stared at him open mouthed and horrified Struggling to care for your feet? Dunedin area for a minute, then gasped: “Didn’t you get my F U N E R A L S E R V I C E S Can’t get to a clinic? > Friendly service E-mail?” > Insurance and WINZ quotes Registered Podiatrist My New Year’s resolution is to help all my friends Sally Woodward OTAGO gain ten pounds so I look skinnier. Ph: 455 2128 (24-hours) (03) 477 0106 DENTAL Toll-free: 0800 858 555 Phone: 476 1918 / 0212 301 177 0800 367 120 SERVICE I was going to quit all my bad habits for the new 407 Hillside Rd, Sth Dunedin or email: [email protected] 83 Crawford Street, Dunedin Incorporating Ace Dental Laboratory year, but then I remembered that nobody likes a www.gillions.co.nz quitter. Editorial supplied by Gillions Funeral Services 14 AGE CONCERN | Serving the needs of older people AGE CONCERN OTAGO NOTICE BOARD Make us your first call for Bea-line From birds to trees. In Brisbane, lots of wonderful information, education & advocacy colour, with bougainvillea, and grevilleas and All service information is available on our website: Age Concern Otago would like to thank I’m writing this from Australia, magnificent blue jacarandas. When I can take my www.ageconcernotago.com our 2018 funders, sponsors, other major where from Sydney, we went north eyes off the trees I look at the roses, lilies and irises. STAFF DIRECTORY: financial supporters and our members and to Armidale then on to Brisbane. Marvellous. Nae bad, or good as gold, Chief Executive Officer: supporters who made individual donations depending on where you come And I find myself appreciating foliage more and more. Debbie George (03) 479 3056 Accounts/Administrator: in both money and kind throughout the year from, with the one exception that I love the myriad greens, and varying textures of Maree Turnbull (03) 479 3051 - together you make all the difference. we nearly ran out of petrol on our way north. There trees and bushes, and small plants: the smoothness of alecost and slight roughness of sorrel; blades of Accredited Visiting Service (Dunedin & South Otago): was one very tense driver and tense passenger, until Tristan Kavanagh (03) 479 3058 FUNDERS: tarragon, and the lovely rounded soft green of basil. the next open petrol station appeared on the left. Falls Prevention Programmes: • Southern Victorian Trust Temptation persuades me to nibble. Leave them! I’m On our way north we passed through settlements of Margaret Dando (03) 479 3052 • Marjorie Barclay Trust told. They’re there for the kitchen. Health Promotion Programmes/Elder Abuse Educator: • DCC Aberdeen, Dundee, Glencoe, Ben Lomond, and I felt I’ve just discovered the name of my favourite plant: Kristen Beardsmore (03) 479 3054 • DCC Rates Relief completely at home, despite the blazing heat. As a • Otago Motor Club anthriscus sylvestris ‘ravenswing’. Gorgeous lacy Elder Abuse Response Service: Scot, the names rang all the bells. Marie Bennett (Dunedin) (03) 479 3053 • COGS black leaves, wonderful miniature white petals. It’s of Marie Roxburgh (Central) (03) 448 7075 • Southern Trust The temperatures are hot! 38 degrees in the the cow parsley family, doesn’t sound romantic does north. I don’t want to be outside, just lead me to a Peggy Waite (North Otago) 027 231 4880 • Lotteries it? Reception/Meals on Wheels Driver Coordinator: • HP ACNZ: August: comfortable air conditioned room. Slightly cooler Never mind! The kitchen garden back home is doing Fiona McMillan (03) 479 3055 • Otago Third Age Trust in Armidale, but still the plants in boxes need to be • Central Lakes Trust quite well, despite slightly late plantings. Beans Office Hours: 9.00am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday checked, moved into the shade, watered and given • NZ Post growing mightily, lots of celery, and all the salad lots of water crystals. DUNEDIN OFFICE: • Age Concern New Zealand vegies in boxes flourishing. Beets seem to be a bit Phone: (03) 477 1040 And I noticed composting to be very interesting in this slower for us this year but the potatoes are coming Email: [email protected] SUPPORTERS: weather. I dump some kitchen waste on the compost along nicely, to my surprise, since I don’t think they’re Address: 9 The Octagon, Dunedin 9016 • Dunedin North Lions heap, and move back fast! Snake? No? A slithery in the best position. However, ‘the gang’ is adding PO Box 5355, Dunedin 9054 • Balmacewan Lions glossy black lizard. He darts to the fence, climbs up tyres and earth to the first group holding the seedling CENTRAL OTAGO (ALEXANDRA) OFFICE: • Dunedin South Lions and looks at me. He runs further along, stops and • Dunedin North Rotary tatties, so I look forward to a mighty crop, maybe of Phone: (03) 448 7075 stares. Then since I haven’t moved, he drops back • Dunedin Rotary tiddlers, but certainly some biggies amongst them. Email: [email protected] • Dunedin South Rotary down the fence to the garden, and disappears. A Address: Alexandra Community House, 12-20 Centennial • Saint Kilda Sunrise Rotary beautiful creature. Back soon! Avenue, Alexandra 9320 • Dunedin East Rotary That’s not the case with the ants, with which I argue • Napthali daily. ‘Out of there!’ Squash, squish, splash - and Beatrice Hale CLUBS NOTICE BOARD • IDEA Services away they go. Defiant Gardening Granny OCTAGON CLUB • Mornington Presbyterian Church Various weekly social and exercise group activities • Hawkesbury Trust Any predator on the precious plants gets the same • Highlanders treatment. for people 55 plus. To find out all that is on offer, come in to pick up a • Grants Braes School • Naylor Love However there are other creatures just waiting to be Can I ask everyone for a big favour? brochure from the Octagon Clubrooms, Age Concern admired. Kangaroos, for example. I only saw two, and Otago building. Entertainment or travel trips are • PACT they stared at me before lolloping off to the watery Those of you planning to place Christmas lights available on our Website or Facebook page or phone • Dunedin Community Police • Aon gullies. They are magnificent creatures. and decorations in your yards, can you please avoid (03) 477 1040. anything that is red or blue and flashing? Every • AMI Dunedin And, believe it or not, a kookaburra, sitting on a log, time I drive by such homes, I think it’s the police, MOSGIEL SENIORS • SBS Bank • Westpac Business Banking staring at me unblinking. He didn’t seem to worry and I have a panic attack. I have to take my foot off Bowls; Total Mobility assessments each Wednesday 1.00pm - 2.00pm. Phone Tristan to find out more • ANZ Private George Street about the traffic line, just sat there and stared at the accelerator, toss my beer, fasten my seat belt, these weird people streaming along the road while he (03) 479 3058. • Southern Wide throw my cellphone on the floor, turn my radio down, • MTF Finance gazed dreamily over the landscape. and push the gun under the seat. It’s too much SOUTH DUNEDIN SENIORS • Cutlers More birds - flocks of lovely green and red parrots for me to do in such a short notice. Thank you for Thursday social group, weekly meet at the South • Kingsgate and a stream of white and noisy cockatoos flying past understanding. Dunedin Community Hall. Everyone welcome. Phone • Housing NZ the window. ~ David Jones, Duluth Age Concern reception to find out more. • Dunedin City Council • Volunteering Otago Packers 2019 Age Concern Subscription $25.00 January 2019 - December 2019 Otago Membership Magazine $5.00 Otago He Manaakitanga Kaumātua o Otakou Donation (Tax Deductible) $...... 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Strawberry Santas Makes: 20 Time to make: 15 minutes Ingredients: • 20 medium-large strawberries, hulled for a flat base • 100g Philadelphia Light cream cheese (Note: other brands of cream cheese can be too runny for this recipe; this is the one we’ve found works best.) • 4 - 6 tsp icing sugar, to taste • 40 mini dark-choc bits or chocolate chips Method: 1. Cut the top third off each berry and reserve. Stand berry bases on a serving platter. 2. Mix cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth and creamy. 3. Pipe or spoon 1 tsp cream onto flat berry tops. 4. Place reserved berry tops on top. Use the smallest piping nozzle to pipe mixture onto the tip of each strawberry “hat” (pompom) and onto “chest” (button). 5. Use tweezers to place 2 chocolate pieces onto each cream “face” (eyes). Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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