Dementia North - Lakes

15/01/2026

Living with dementia | mate wareware – or supporting someone who is – can feel overwhelming. 💛

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is here to meet you where you are, offering free, trusted support for individuals, care partners, and whānau.

Get tailored guidance, access resources, join support groups, or speak one-on-one with our experts.

Learn more about our services across the Lakes region: https://dementia.nz/dementia-lakes/

13/01/2026

Imagine a library where books slowly disappear from the shelves, leaving only fragments behind. 🧠

That’s what dementia can feel like - memories, knowledge, and identity fading over time.

Dementia is caused by physical changes in the brain and includes many different illnesses. While there’s no cure yet, there are ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

🔗 Learn more: https://dementia.nz/about-dementia/what-is-dementia/

11/01/2026

Happy New Year and welcome back! 🎉

Our Lakes office is open, and our team is looking forward to reconnecting after the Christmas break.

Our support groups will be resuming soon. If you have any questions, your Dementia Advisor is here to help.

If you or someone close to you needs support, visit https://dementia.nz/dementia-lakes/ to find out how we can help.

31/12/2025

31/12/2025

Celebrating New Year’s with someone living with dementia | mate wareware may look different - and that’s okay. 🎆

Instead of big parties and late-night countdowns, focus on gentle traditions: familiar music, favorite foods, simple crafts like drawing fireworks, and even an early “countdown.” What matters most is connection, comfort, and calm. Honoring their journey means meeting them where they are and finding joy in small, meaningful moments.

23/12/2025

Hot summer ahead! 🌡 ☀️

😎 Slip, Slop, Slap & Wrap
💧 Drink plenty of water
❤️ Keep an eye out for those who might struggle in the heat

If you or your whānau feel unwell, contact your GP or call Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 for free 24/7 advice - yes, even on Christmas Day.

In an emergency, dial 111. 🚑

21/12/2025

While our Dementia North offices will be closed over the holiday period, you’re not alone. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support. 💚

🕓 Closed from 4pm Friday, 19th December
📅 Reopening 8:30am Monday, 12th January 2026

If you or someone you support needs help during this time, support is still available:

📞 Healthline New Zealand 24/7): 0800 611 116

📱 Call or text 1737 – free support for anxiety, depression, relationships or distress

🔗 Healthify Trusted health info & self-help: https://healthify.nz/

💻 Online GP Care (24/7, costs may apply): https://info.health.nz/online-phone-healthcare/online-gp-care

🚨 Emergency: Call 111

21/12/2025

Planning to travel with someone living with dementia | mate wareware can take extra thought and care. ✈️

✔Keep it simple, stay local if possible, and choose familiar places that feel comfortable and safe.
✔Small practice trips can help you understand what works best, and having a backup plan brings peace of mind.

With preparation, organisation and patience, holidays can be relaxing and meaningful for you both. 💛

🔗 Learn more: https://dementia.nz/planning-a-holiday-after-christmas/

20/12/2025

Lake Taupō is in our backyard turf for us here in the Lakes region – and this summer, it’s where Danielle Falconer will swim all 40.2km to support Dementia New Zealand.

Danielle knows how challenging the dementia | mate wareware journey can be for whānau, and she wanted to do something practical to support others. Her connection to Taupō makes this challenge even more special, and we’re grateful she has chosen this kaupapa.

You can read Danielle’s story on our website:
👉🏼 https://dementia.nz/swimming-lake-taupo-for-dementia-mate-wareware/

And you can support her Lake Taupō crossing here:
👉🏼 https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/danielles-40km-swim-for-dementia-nz

🧡 Go well, Danielle – the Lakes team is behind you!

19/12/2025

🎉 Win a Dementia Clock, thanks to Memory Matters NZ! 🎁

Simply head to our website and sign up to receive our Newsletters! https://dementia.nz/sign-up/

⏰ Entries close Friday, 29th December at 5pm. Good luck!

📧The winner will be drawn on Monday, 5th January 2026 and notified by email.

18/12/2025

Not every memory slip means dementia, but if you’re concerned about a loved one’s changes, getting support can help.

A GP visit is the first step, and our Dementia Lakes team is here with free information, guidance and local support services.

Begin with a self-referral today: https://dementia.nz/carer-whanau-enquiry-form/

17/12/2025

Unpaid care partners (whānau and friends) provide 62.5 million hours of care for people living with dementia | mate wareware every year in New Zealand.

Their support is valued at $1.68 billion annually.

💛 Their aroha, time and devotion make an incredible difference. Their generosity is immense - and deserves recognition.

We see you. 🌹 🙏

🔬 Research by Cheung, G., Ma’u, E., Tan, G., Kerse, N., & Cullum, S. (2025). Dementia in Focus. The University of Auckland - Waipapa Taumata Rau.