We're here to help you with care and advice as you start your care home journey. Find out about the help available and what you'll need to consider when you're looking to move to a care home. Below is a video series we’ve created to help you understand the journey.
We know there’s a lot to consider when a family member or friend starts needing more support with everyday tasks. This guide provides early signs to look out for, such as missed medication, reduced independence, or difficulty keeping up with routines — and offers supportive advice on what to do next. If you’ve noticed a change or decline in a family member or friend a visit to your GP might be your next step.
Before moving into a care home (also known as a rest home), you will need to organise a needs assessment. This may be done by Health NZ Te Whatu Ora or Health NZ funded Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) agencies. A person may also be assessed by a specialist while a patient in a public hospital. This process helps ensure you or your family member receives the right support, based on expert advice.
As part of the assessment, you will find out:
Now that your needs assessment is complete, it’s time to create a personalised action plan. In this guide, we’ll explain how your Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) coordinator will help you access the services you need, whether that’s help at home, respite care, or a move into a care home (also known as a rest home), and guide you through key legal and financial processes such as designating power of attorney, or applying for a Residential Care Subsidy.
Choosing a care home (also known as a rest home) is a big decision, and often one that needs to be made quickly. Whether you’re planning ahead or navigating an urgent situation, this information will help you feel more confident about what to look for, who can support you, and what to expect when visiting a Bupa care home.
Before moving into a care home, you’ll be asked to sign an admission agreement. This document outlines your rights, the care and services you’ll receive, and any costs involved. In this video, we’ll walk you through what to expect from the agreement, what to look out for, and how the care home team can support you to feel confident before signing.
Once you’ve signed your admission agreement, it’s time to explore your eligibility for the Residential Care Subsidy. In this guide, we will explain what a Residential Care Subsidy is, how to apply, and who can help if you’re unable to complete the process yourself. Understanding your options, and what you’re eligible for, can help with peace of mind and feeling prepared moving forward.
Moving into a care home (also known as a rest home) is a big step for you and your family/whānau. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect on moving day, what to bring with you, and how the team will help you settle in.
From making your room feel like home, to meeting new people and staying connected with family and friends, we’re here to support you
Jean and her family wanted peace of mind and security for her. She says the care she receives is “top notch” and she’s very happy in what she calls her “new home”.
At Bupa, we prioritise comfort, safety, and overall well-being of our residents. Feel free to reach out to us for any questions or to arrange a visit. We're here to provide the best care possible for your loved ones.
At rest home level care, individuals may require help with things like personal hygiene, meals, and medication. Some may have some memory loss or a form of dementia, which can usually be supported, providing a safe environment. It is suitable for those who can generally mobilise independently with supervision or minimal assistance (i.e. using a walking frame).
Hospital level care in New Zealand is a type of care for older people with complex medical needs that go beyond what rest home level care can provide. This includes people with chronic health conditions, potential cognitive decline, limited mobility, or those recovering from illness, surgery, or injury who require regular clinical support and oversight.
Dementia level care is a specialised level of residential care for older people living with a diagnosis of dementia. This level of care is for people who can no longer safely manage at home, or in rest home level care. At Bupa, dementia level care is delivered in secure, purpose-built communities designed to promote safety, routine, and comfort.
Psychogeriatric level care (also known as specialist dementia care or D6) is for people living with advanced dementia and associated behavioural or psychological symptoms. This may include severe confusion, aggression, agitation, or significant mental health challenges that cannot be safely supported in rest home or hospital level care settings
Bupa already supports more than 5,000 residents throughout New Zealand, living in independent apartments and villas, or warm and welcoming care homes. Hear from family and residents on their journey and why they chose Bupa.
