You’ve probably come here because you have a relative or friend who has, or might have dementia. There may be a few things you’re concerned about, like how to cope, what to expect, and what’s likely to happen in the future. We can help you with these questions, and as New Zealand’s largest provider of dementia care, our information here is drawn from a wide range of expert experience and knowledge.
Finding helpful information on dementia and dementia care can be difficult. There may be a few things that you would like to know; what is dementia?, what should you expect in the future? what dementia care options are there?
Bupa New Zealand has officially been recognised as 'dementia friendly' by Alzheimers New Zealand. This accreditation recognises Bupa New Zealand's commitment to raising awareness of dementia in the community as well as the work we do everyday to improve the lives of our residents - putting 'Person First, Dementia Second'. Find out more about helping to create dementia-friendly communities here.
Are you caring for someone living with dementia?
Over 60,000 New Zealanders have a dementia diagnosis. It affects 2 out of 3 New Zealanders [1] — people living with dementia, their family, friends and carers — so you are not alone.
Here are some downloads containing tips, advice and support which you may find helpful:
- Understanding dementia – a guide for carers and support people. If you would prefer a hard copy of this book, you can order one for free using our general enquiries form.
- Communicating and Connecting – tips on communicating with people living with dementia.
[1] Source: Alzheimer’s NZ http://www.alzheimers.org.nz/news-info/nz-information/awareness-in-nz
Dementia Expertise
Our passionate care team are trained to a high standard to ensure we are consistently providing excellent care to all residents. They practice person-centred training, which we call ‘Person First’, which teaches the team to tailor care to suit the needs and preferences of every resident.
When a person moves to a Bupa care home we sit with them and their family/Whānau to complete their ‘map of life’ so that we know their history, preferences and what makes them, them. This approach is provided to everyone in our homes, and is especially important for those living with dementia.
Beth McDougall – Dementia Care Advisor
Beth leads our face-to-face dementia training in New Zealand, helping people to understand dementia and the effects it has on people living with it and their families. Beth is also an executive member of the New Zealand National Dementia Cooperative.