Are you a Carer?
Most of us become a ‘carer’ at some time in our lives. This article lists sources of information to support family carers in this important task.
Local information
To find out if there is a carers support group near you, how to organise a break, or find out what is available in the health system to support you and the person you care for, contact your local Age Concern.
National support for carers
The organisation Carers New Zealand provides-
- A website for carers containing a huge range of clear and useful information including links to all government resources for carers.
- Family Care internet radio broadcasts
- Family Care magazine– a quarterly magazine free to carers. Contains stories, information, health and wellbeing tips and other information.
- Toll free line for carer inquiries (0800) 777 797
- Email hotline for carers’ concerns provided by Carers NZ: info@carers.net.nz
- Carers
New Zealand
Resources
The Ministry of Social Development publishes:
A Guide for Carers http://www.carers.net.nz/files/pdf/carers-brochure-english.pdf
Includes topics such as: financial help, having a break, help at home, health and disability rights, and equipment and injury cover.
The New Zealand Dental Association has produced: Healthy Mouth, Healthy Ageing: Oral Health Guide for Caregivers of Older People
The Cancer Society of New Zealand has an on-line directory of cancer related resources including many that may be of interest to carers. See www.cancernz.org.nz
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Alcohol and older people: information for older people, family, friends and carers
> LINK [large PDF file, 4MB] -
What happens when you can no longer make decisions? Why you need an Enduring Power of Attorney > LINK [PDF file, 0.2MB]
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Ageing is Living, a guide to positive ageing > LINK [PDF file, 0.5MB]
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Age Concern information sheets including Thinking Ahead - Guidelines for older people/guidelines for families > LINK [PDF file]; and Facing Change together > LINK [PDF file]
Other organisations
Organisations like Hospice New Zealand, the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand, Cancer Society of New Zealand, Parkinson’s New Zealand, Alzheimers New Zealand all offer information and advice to family carers.
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