24 May 2016

All eyes on Rotorua as it leads the way on global stage

Action is beginning in Rotorua with the first public meeting to discuss an age-friendly and dementia-inclusive city with learnings being shared on a global level.

The Rotorua Lakes Council, Westpac NZ, Alzheimers NZ, Office for Seniors and Bupa will lead the discussion with an estimated 100 people on what changes are needed to become more dementia and age inclusive creating a resilient Rotorua. Combining both age-friendly and dementia inclusivity is unique – which will see Rotorua be the first in New Zealand.

“Dementia is one of New Zealand’s most significant healthcare and social challenges, one that is only going to grow as our population ages. If we are to respond effectively to this challenge, New Zealand must become dementia-friendly, where people with dementia are valued, are able to contribute and participate, and where they feel safe.” said Catherine Hall, Alzheimers NZ Chief Executive.

With ageing populations worldwide and the numbers of people living with dementia set to rise everywhere, but most of all in low and middle income countries[i], dementia truly is a global challenge. 2016 marks a critical stage in the journey towards a future where people understand dementia – currently affecting forty four million people worldwide – including how they can reduce their risk of the disease, and that those living with dementia are able to live well.

Current estimates suggest that around 60,000 kiwis have dementia and that number is expected to increase to around 154,000 by 2050. That is just the tip of the iceberg for everyone of those people there are family and friends also affected by the diagnosis [ii].

Fortunately, the journey has already begun. Faced with the social and economic challenge of ageing populations, and the fact that more people will never fully retire from the workplace or duties of care, we have a global need for a dementia inclusive society.

The Rotorua 2030 goals include a resilient community ... He hāpori pūmanawa- Inclusive, liveable and safe neighbourhoods give us a sense of place; and confidence to be involved and connected. The council believes it requires the whole community’s contributions and efforts- from families and homes, to neighbours in neighbourhoods, to businesses and ensuring our built environment supports people of all abilities.

The Office for Seniors is leading a national programme called Community Connects that supports communities to become age-friendly by working with the people that live there.

Blair McCarthy, Acting Director of the Office for Seniors, says throughout New Zealand local people are considering how they can create environments where people of all ages and abilities are valued, connected and able to participate in their community:

"Becoming age-friendly will help New Zealand to face the challenges and embrace the opportunities posed by our ageing population. With the right planning and support, we can all hope to live and age positively into our later years. We all have an interest in creating the communities we want to be part of."

Professor Graham Stokes, Global Director of Dementia Care at Bupa, an author and clinician who is also an internationally recognised authority on dementia care practice and policy, clarifies the current situation:

“As we address dementia today and also in the future, we need to put the person they are at the centre of their care - treat people living with dementia as unique individuals, understanding who they are, their life story, and the reality in which they are living.”

One of the biggest issues is making dementia relevant and addressing public misconception, fear and stigma. In doing this, the dementia challenge must be seen as relevant to everyone, whether school teacher, employer, carer, managing physician, bank or nurse.

ends

© Scoop Media