​An important issue facing Aged Residential Care (ARC) institutions is the question of how to work with people who lack capacity to make decisions.
 
Dr Mark Fletcher published an audit of ARC facilities in Auckland in 2018 that found that 65 percent of residents without capacity to consent to living in that facility, had  proper evidence of having a legal authority in place. In the intervening years ARC facilities have put significant work in to addressing this problem but there is still more work to do.
 
Alison Douglass summarises the legal framework that we have for making decisions for these people.
 
The PPPR Act permits a person with capacity to appoint an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) to make financial, health and welfare decisions should they later lose their capacity and it confers statutory jurisdiction on the Family Court to make substitute decisions concerning the welfare and property of people lacking capacity or to appoint a welfare guardian or property manager (a Deputy under the MCA) to make decisions on their behalf.  Decisions for individuals who lack capacity are ideally made by an enduring power of attorney, a court appointed welfare guardian or guided by an advance directive.
 
Douglass further discusses how Right 7(4) from the code of rights is used controversially for making decisions in the absence of any of the mechanisms above and the significant issues that are raised by that approach.
 
A not uncommon scenario is that a person is admitted from the community acutely to hospital and is found to lack capacity.  If they do not have an EPOA or a Welfare Guardian and have no family and friends willing to take on that role, clinicians wishing to transfer their care to residential care, are placed in a difficult position.  The ideal option is to find someone willing to act as a Welfare Guardian but there are significant numbers of people who do not have any one willing to do this for them.  A court order can be applied for to approve the initial decision of the Subject Person’s transfer to residential care, but that does nothing to allow for their ongoing care, and there can also be significant delays in getting such an order through the court.
 
In the context of acute public hospital beds being in high demand there is anecdotally increasing reliance on Right 7(4).  In the past this has been managed informally in some centres by the clinicians or courts being aware of suitable individuals who are willing to volunteer as a Welfare Guardian.  This approach has proved to be inadequate to resolve the problem in Wellington.
 
The Wellington Welfare Guardianship Trust is a charitable trust established to recruit, approve and train suitable volunteers to apply to be court appointed Welfare Guardians for people who are unable to make, or communicate decisions for themselves.  Once appointed the Trust provides ongoing support of the volunteers.

=The Trust consists of a Board who brings various fields of expertise and experience to ensure the Trust’s aims are met.  The current Trustees have expertise in social  work, general practice, family law practice, family court processes and health and disability issues.

The Trust Co-ordinator receives requests for volunteers from a range of people including hospital social workers, lawyers, rest home managers and family members who live outside the local area or are unable/unwilling to act as a Welfare Guardian themselves.
 
Most requests for the appointment of a volunteer Welfare Guardian occurs when the Subject Person has no known relatives, when their relatives live in another part of New Zealand or overseas or when the person’s family cannot agree on which of them should be appointed.
 
The co-ordinator matches the needs of the subject person to a suitable volunteer and the Trust then supports the volunteer to apply to the Court for an Order appointing them the Welfare Guardian.
 
Once appointed by the Family Court the Welfare Guardian is the only person legally able to make decisions about the day-to-day care and welfare of their Subject Person, subject to the limitation on their powers prescribed by law.  These may include decisions about non-urgent medical treatments and accommodation.  The court orders may be tailored to specify what kind of care and welfare decisions the welfare guardian makes as the appointed decision maker for the subject person.
 
The trustees meet monthly and as needed to interview prospective volunteers and provide support/education sessions for volunteers.  We have a volunteer administrator.  The major costs we face are the costs of preparing and submitting applications to the court on behalf of our volunteers to become Welfare Guardians.  All the other work is done on a voluntary basis.  We are currently unable to provide any Volunteer Welfare Guardian costs, such as travel costs.
 
Welfare Guardians are appointed for three years so any volunteer needs to be prepared to take on this length of commitment, limiting the pool of people who may take on this length of commitment, limiting the pool of people who may be suitable.  Each volunteer has a board member assigned to him or her as a first point of contact in case of any queries.
 
We were established in 2015 modelled on the successful Otago Welfare Guardianship Trust, which has been operating since 2011.  We appointed our first Volunteer Welfare Guardians in April 2018.  Otago developed the website welfareguardians.nz that has the public site providing information about the function of the trust and importantly the confidential site which enables the storage of all the relevant documents and the recording of details of visits to Subject Persons by Volunteers.  This has been designed so that future regional Trusts can be added to the site easily.

In addition to Otago and Wellington other trusts have been established in Canterbury/West Coast Waikato and Whanganui, and the Wellington  Trust supports volunteers in the Wairarapa.  We had our first national meeting in July.
 
The work of trusts to meet the need of people who lack capacity having no person able to be their Welfare Guardian can only ever be a stop gap.  Clearly, there is no national coverage of public body that fulfils this role.  Even within our region, our volunteers live too far away from some of the subject persons for it to be viable for them to offer assistance.  There is no obligation to provide a volunteer.  There may also be situations where the Trust cannot offer a volunteer to match the request for a welfare guardian or, in some situations, not wishing to expose a volunteer to a family in conflict.
 
With increasing population and language diversity there will be more people who as they age either lose their fluency in English or were not fluent in the first place, thereby compromising their ability to communicate and to have culturally appropriate support through a welfare guardian.  With age baby boomers the small pot of volunteer welfare guardians will be a growing problem for the elderly.  It is also a significant issue for people with intellectual disabilities who have been cared for solely by their parents who may well die before their children.  Parents  may face cognitive impairments themselves and difficulties in fulfilling the guardian role for their adult children.
 
The current arrangements are not satisfactory.  We are hopeful that the law will be attended to address this in the near future.  The law commission is current doing a report He Arotake I te True mō ngā Huarahi Whakatu a ng Pakeke Review of Adult Decision-Making Capacity Law, and is consulting widely on the issue.  Anyone interested in making submissions can contact them at
huarahi-whakatau.lawcom.govt.nz
 
Author:
 
Dr Ben Gray
Chair Wellington Welfare Guardianship Trust. Wellington
 
Ref:  Aged Care NZ Issue 2 2022
 
 
 

​The way in which we travel by foot, wheels or air in our later years may take a little more consideration.  Let’s investigate the impact of our choices.
 
The consideration given to getting around later in life might need to expand locally and even internationally.  Perhaps it’s not only age that can motivate a change of route – many of us are now considering the environmental impact of our travel choices too.
 
Locally
 
Get walking!   Move it or lose it!  If you are retired, you’ll hopefully have more time to get to places.  Yes you could drive to the local supermarket for that loaf of bread, but what if you pop on some headphones, and get the blood pumping with a walk there instead?
 
If you can’t drive anymore, consider going electric.  Electric scooters can go up to around 17 km/hr and include a nice big basket on the front and a decent sized pack on the back.  They’re also easy on the environment.  Electric bicycles have gained huge popularity amongst the older generation – providing an opportunity to combine transport with an inclusive level of exercise that suit so many types of bodies.

Companies such as Driving Miss Daisy offer wonderfully helpful services and can take you to appointments, shopping trips, scenic drives and airport transfers.  Perhaps you’ll give up driving as much when you hit 65 and are rewarded with a Gold Card which gives you access to free or reduced-price public transport. It’s enticing to not have to factor in where to park and the cost of petrol plus you might enjoy the added benefit of meeting a nice like-minded  soul to chat to during the journey!

​Nationally
 
If you’d like to see a bit more of this gorgeous nation we reside in, consider a bus tour.  Often these tours cater to the over 65 market and make it easy going.  Many tour companies offer guided tours specifically designed for seniors. They set the timetable, with activities, and places to stop and eat, and they organise accommodation all with a very comfortable spacious bus to get you from A to B.
 
There is also the option of self-driving.  Rent a campervan to explore New Zealand’s scenic landscapes and attractions.  Don’t forget to inquire about whether they offer senior discounts.  The NZTA provides information on driver licensing requirements for seniors.
 
Cruise around the land of the long white cloud via ship!  Our scenic waterways and coastline make a popular destination for cruises.  The top cruise line companies offer special services and amenities depending on your age and abilities.
 
Internationally
 
There is more than just cruises on the menu that can suit a more mature audience’s appetite for adventure.
 
Take a flight from one of our nation’s international airports.  Many airlines offer special services for elderly passengers, such as wheelchair assistance and priority boarding.

​Cruises speak for themselves with popularity amongst this age group!  Aside from wheelchair-accessible cabins and medical facilities onboard, cruises are often tailormade with knowledge of the types of activities and destinations you’d love to comfortably travel to.
 
As with nationally, consider using a travel agency to organise flights and transfers to indulge in a tour over land.  Your travel agency will be able to recommend tours specifically designed for people just like you and take care of the boring admin of booking accommodation and knowing the best places to dine.
 
What about the dreaded jetlag?
 
With the world now re-open to the savvy traveller in us all, the practical aspect of jumping on a plane to somewhere fabulous also needs to be investigated.  Who wants to arrive in Europe feeling sleep deprived and moody when there are ways to alleviate the effects?  The best approach is using the Old Girl Guide’s motto: Be Prepared!  Adjust your sleeping schedule ahead of time and begin to go to bed and wake up closer to your destination’s time zone in the days and weeks leading up to the trip. Avoid coffee and alcohol (save the drinkees to celebrate arrival at your destination) and choose to stay hydrated with water instead.  Invest in some noise-cancelling head phones and get as much rest during the flight as possible, interspersed with occasional walks, if possible, up and down the aisles.  The other option if you’re not opposed to extra assistance in pill form, is jet lag pills.  Often these can be purchased from the airport or try your local chemist.  Melatonin can also be very helpful if taken for several days once you’ve arrived – but please do check with your Dr before throwing back extra medications.  Lastly, avoid heavy meals.  An upset digestive system won’t do your time adjustment any favours.
 
 
Get assurance with insurance
 
Whatever the travel you choose, it’s important to obtain travel insurance that covers any medical emergencies or unexpected cancellations. Some insurance companies may have age restrictions or require additional medical information so it‘s recommended to shop around for the best policy.  
 
Organisation is key to success for any kind of traveling you intend to do – plan your trip in advance and consult with a travel agent or tour company to ensure a smooth and comfortable, stress free experience.
 
 
Ref: Aged Advisor 2024

In today’s western world we have been encouraged to think success in life is all about academic achievement and the only way to achieve this success is through providing our children with ‘academic enrichment’ games and services.  These enrichment activities can start well before school age and tend to gain momentum as the child ages. This, the “stranger danger” phenomenon and our busy lifestyles have led to a decline in children and youngsters play time especially unstructured free play.
 
Play is very important in the growth and development of all youngsters.  It helps with their physical, emotional, social and intellectual development.  In general terms, play come in two categories:  unstructured (free play) or structured play.  Both forms are important.
 
Structured play is directed by an adult with a goal in mind.  It helps children learn to follow rules and routines, and give opportunity for development of physical and social skills.
 
Unstructured free play is not led by an adult and has no goal. It may move from activity to activity, and may involve other children and possibly adults. This type of play allows children to explore and develop the skills needed for negotiating life without feeling pressured or fearful of making mistakes.
 
Most play involves some physical activity, either hand skills or larger body movements. Play allows the child to gain strength, coordination and control over their movements, as well as physical fitness.
 
Free unstructured play helps children learn about society and their emotions, especially through imaginative role play, where they pretend to be an adult. This helps then understand the society they live in and how to relate to others. They gain skills such as turn taking, sharing, negotiating and managing conflict.
 
Youngsters learn from their peers and they enjoy playing together. This is a great learning ground for acquiring communication skills. The better children can express and make themselves understood, the less anxious and frustrated they will be, and the more relaxed they will be about new experiences and challenges.
 
The practice they gain from role playing helps them conquer their fears and develop the confidence to independently deal with new situations

Free play helps youngsters gain a sense of who they are, their likes and dislikes, strengths and abilities, and to respect the differences, thoughts and feelings of others.
 
They build on what they know and explore different experiences in imaginative ways, enhancing their thinking and problem solving skills and their ability to entertain themselves.

Why is the lack of free play a problem?

Over the past 20 to 30 years, in an attempt to ensure their children’s success, parents have filled their children’s weeks with organised activities so there is little time for creative imaginative free play.  This may account for the rise in anxiety, depression and suicide experienced by a growing number of our young adults. Studies have linked feelings of anxiety and depression to perfectionism.
​
Perfectionism often comes from highly critical parents who expect excellence, which may produce overly self-critical children.  Some may have learned success must happen at any cost and become anxious to get the perfect marks at the expense of values such as honesty and integrity.  This is believed to have contributed to the increase in cheating in our high schools and universities. Perfectionism reduces creativity and is not good for society.
If we wish to reverse the trend of depression, anxiety and perfectionism among our youngsters, society and parents need to revisit their ideas on what success looks like, slow our pace of life down and let our children engage in a balance of structured enrichment activities and unstructured free play.
 
 
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/119/1/182
 
https://www.pentagonplay.co.uk/news-and-info/why-free-play-is-crucial-for-early-years-children
 
https://www.verywellfamily.com/unstructured-play-2764971

​If we want to have a happy active life as we age we need to ensure our body is fit to last the distance.  Here are a few exercises that can be done in the comfort of your home.
 
These 10 easy exercises are planned to improve:
 

• posture
• blood flow
• nerve input
• flexibility
• strength

 
Begin slowly and keep practicing each day.
Do not expect results for several weeks.

1.  Chin Tucks

Stand as erect as you can with your neck drawn back and
chin tucked in, not up. 
Hold head correctly; do not tilt chin.
Pull head back in line with your spine, keeping chin horizontal. 
See picture.
Hold this position for 10 seconds, relax, breathe, and repeat 3 times.

2.  Shoulders back

​Pull your shoulders back as if you had a
piece of elastic pulling your shoulder
blades together in the back. 
Hold that for 10 seconds and relax. 
Repeat 3 times, relaxing and breathing and holding the position.

3. Shoulder shrugs

Bring your shoulders around in big circles,
3 times clockwise and 3 times anti-clockwise​

5. Toe Ups

​Go up on your toes as high as you can, come back down.  Do this 10 times, increasing each week by 5 times until you build up to 50.

7. Quad Sets 

​Tighten the muscles on top of the thigh as tightly as possible and hold.  Pull 10 seconds, trying every second to pull even tighter.  
Relax 10 seconds.

8.  Runner's stretch

​Standing with one foot behind the other, lunge forward bending front knee to stretch calf muscles in the back leg.  Keep both heels flat.  Hold for 10 seconds.  Repeat with the other leg.

9.  Hip Circles

​Stand in front of a mirror and make a big 
circle with your hip as if there were a clock around your feet. Trying not to move your shoulders, circle with your hips to one, two three, four, etc o’clock positions until you have made a full circle in a clockwise direction then repeat the movement in anti-clockwise direction.

If you are wanting advice on maintaining fitness as you age, our friendly Physiotherapist can help. Just contact Therapy Professionals Ltd:
                                                            Phone:             03 377 5280
                                                            Email:               [email protected]


From “Self balance hints for Older Persons” by Carole B Lewis Aspen Publishing

For many New Zealanders the idea of what a retirement village offers sounds enticing, but the comfort, familiarity and security of remaining in your existing home can be hard to relinquish.  Welcome to Virtual Villages – a concept that allows you to enjoy the services and care usually found within a retirement village while continuing to remain at home.
 
Although the first virtual village was founded in Boston nearly twenty years ago, it’s taken ten years to reach Australasia and a further five years for a New Zealand not-for-profit organisation to trial it in Auckland (in 2018). However, one of the ‘Big 6’ village operators now plans to make it a reality across the country.

​Arvida Good Friends is an initiative to keep older New Zealanders supported and connected, while living in their own home.  By eliminating the need for people to move into a village, Arvida’s intention is nurturing connections and independence for all their members.  The system is Community Centres, private home help and rideshare transport.  This allows members to have both independence and social connection.  CEO, Bill MacDonald explains the concept as a solution for older people to live well wherever they are, especially the 80% of people over 65 who choose to stay in their homes.  Although they already have 33 retirement communities across the country, McDonald believes Arvida Good Friends will fill a vital gap in the retirement sector.
 
“In ten years’ time, I want the world to notice how well older New Zealanders live.  And I hope it can be traced to Arvida’s commitment to transforming the ageing experience through person-centred care – what we call the Attitude of Living Well.”
 
When summarising the key advantages, McDonald claims the framework will provide state-of-the-art facilities for their clients, offer intelligent technology alongside human service and serve members with affordable transport solutions.
 
Based in Addington, the first Living Well Centre opened in April 2021.  The facility brings together activities, classes, club meetings, a cafe, beauty salon, exercise centre, physiotherapy, allied health services and regular events.  After the launch in Christchurch Arvida has plans to roll out centres across the country over  the next five years.
 
During their market testing phase, Arvida quickly identified control, transparency, reliability and consistency as fundamental problems in existing home care services. Hence, as they start their service, they are focusing on three components to combat these current issues.

​First, Arvida Good Friends is powered by Lookout   technology.  Australia has used this technology for the past few years in their Home Care Package, the National Disability Insurance Scheme and remote health monitoring by the government and private insurance companies.  Seeing its success, Arvida has actively invested in the development of this app for New Zealand.
 
Secondly, their focus on people centred care has driven Arvida to offer a unique subscription based membership model.  This gives members the opportunity to have full control over what services they choose and when.  Bill McDonald explains the technology is an important part of this service, as it enables transparency around care and costs, including for family members.  Furthermore, it matches helpers to members receiving care at home, based on their needs and their personality.
 
Finally, all staff will be inducted on the legal standards of home and community support care and taught Arvida’s Attitude of Living Well philosophy.  Through an online qualification system, supportive clinical oversight and Lookout, they will ensure Arvida Good Friends helpers will provide service of the highest standards.
 
Bill McDonald believes these practices will set Arvida Good Friends apart as a one-of-a-kind, positive and effective service for their members.  He says, “Living Well is about having choices on how and where we live, being able to find the help we want when we need it and finding it easy to stay active and connected with friends, family and hobbies.  Arvida is here to help older New Zealanders choose to live well, wherever they decide to live.”
 
 
Ref: Aged Advisor 2021

​The principle behind the use of slide sheets is they slide on each other to reduce the load on the helpers.  Slide sheets should not be used against bare skin.

• Adjust height of bed so knuckles of shortest person touches mattress.

Log Roll the person onto the slide sheet:
​

• ask the person to, (or a helper) move their head in the direction of the move, put their arm across their body and bend their upper knee,

 

• one helper places a hand on the person’s shoulder and hip, using a backwards lunge transferring their weight onto their back leg, rolls the person towards them and onto their side

Rolling over:
​

• ask the person to, (or a helper) move their head in the direction of the move, put their arm across their body and bend upper knee,

• the helper pulling the slide sheet will grip the top slide sheet with the outer part of their hand, not thumb, close to the person’s hips and shoulders (fig 3),

​

• on the command “ready, steady slide” the helper with the slide sheet will do a backwards lunge transferring their weight onto their back leg pulling the slide sheet.  The other helper applies some downward pressure to the hip and shoulder until the person is repositioned on their side in the middle of the bed.

Removing the slide sheets:
​

• one helper will remove the bottom layer by turning a top corner under, sliding the sheet on itself, to the small of the person’s back,
  

• repeat with a bottom corner, sliding the sheet on itself, to the small of the person’s back,

• continue to slide the sheet until it is completely removed.

Up and down the bed:

• log roll the person onto the slide sheets,

​

• get the person to lift head and bend knees to help push, if the persons knees can’t be bent then put another slide sheet under feet to assist with the move and to prevent skin damage to the heels,

 

• both helpers will ideally stand at the head or foot of the bed facing down the bed (moving up the bed, face the foot of bed, moving down, face the head of bed) (fig 4).

• ​​on the command “ready, steady, slide” both helpers will do a backwards lunge transferring their weight onto their back leg pulling the slide sheet as they do so (fig 5).

Remember to keep your arms close to your sides and your shoulders down, your body should move as one with the slide sheet as you lunge backwards. Be careful not to put the slide sheets on the floor.
 
Use of slide sheets should ideally be done with two carers, however if the client can help to some extent, you could get away with one carer. An alternative is the Wendy Lett system which is designed for one caregiver and it stays in position.

​If you’re wondering whether your village needs a residents committee or a social committee, a hybrid or both then perhaps it might help to understand the differences.
 
A residents committee is a group of residents who are elected to represent the interests of all residents in a retirement village.  They might meet regularly with the village management to discuss issues that affect residents and they can make recommendations on how to improve the village.
 
For example they might recommend changes to the rules and regulations, or they might suggest new amenities or services.  Residents committees can also play a role in resolving disputes between residents and the management.
 
Resident committees tend to be structured.  They will have a constitution or guidelines, keep minutes and are enabled under the Code of Practice ie a group of residents have a legal right to form a residents committee in their Village.
 
A social committee, on the other hand, is a group of residents who organise social activities for the village.  They might plan events like potluck dinners, game nights, or outings.  They also might help to organise volunteer opportunities for residents.  Social committees can help to create a sense of community and belonging in a retirement village. They can also provide opportunities for residents to socialise and stay active.
 
A village can have one, or both, or a hybrid of the two.  The most common is a combination – a residents committee that initiates social activities on behalf of the village.
 
The main difference between a residents committee and a social committee is that a residents committee is responsible for representing the interests of all residents, while a
social committee is responsible for organising social activities.
 
If you are thinking of setting up one then RVResidents (in conjunction with the Retirement Commission) have a great booklet that can help.  Visit www.rvr.org.nz or contact 0800 787 699.

​How Residents Committees work within a Village
 
Residents’ Committees are formed by residents of the retirement village, often through a democratic election process as is the care at a Village in Auckland.

Members are typically volunteers who want to participate actively in the community.
 
The committee represents the collective voice of the residents to the retirement village management and owners.  They often address issues related to facilities, services, and policies that affect the residents and serve as a communication channel between residents and management/owners by gathering input and feedback from residents.
 
Effective collaboration between the Residents committee and retirement village management is crucial for addressing residents’ concerns and ensuring a harmonious living environment. One person comments, “At our facility we are lucky to have an interested and proactive Manager who works well with our residents’ committee.  Her door is always open and she is invited to the last half hour of the bimonthly meetings where any concerns are discussed.  On occasions, the Facilities Manager and Health and Safety Officer attend too so that issues of maintenance and safety can be discussed.”
 
Residents committees may be able to help in resolving disputes or concerns that residents have with the retirement village management or services.  However the complainant is usually encouraged to approach management in the first instance as they find that most problems can be sorted quickly.  If this is not the case, the complaint can be discussed at a committee meeting and the committee may decide to approach the Manager to support the complainant, in this way, the committee representative can act as a mediator and help work towards a solution and thereby avoid escalation to a Formal Complaint.
 
Some committees organise social events and activities within the retirement village to promote community engagement and a sense of belonging among residents.

From Resident Chairs
 
“Our Manager is frequently invited to attend the bi-monthly meetings of Independent Residents and has welcomed our suggestions to invite other staff with responsibilities.  Our Facilities Manager has attended two meetings this year and we are looking forward to hearing about the role of the staff with Health and Safety responsibilities this month.  Her door is always open but the demands of the Hospital and Care sections and staffing issues mean a very busy schedule for her.  Working with the Facilities Manager more directly has been beneficial for staff and residents equally.”
 
“Personally I wonder about the separation between Resident and Independent resident.  This would appear to suggest the resident in Care has no advocate. Yet, if there is one thing we all need to be aware of it is the nature and state of Hospital and Care facilities. Many of us are likely to be using them and we want quality staff and quality facilities.  Transition from independence to dependency requires good communication and good understanding of the process. The Resident’s Committee is a group ideally suited to explore these issues and our Village Manger has agreed to address them.”
 
“We feel the committee and management both work torwards the same goal which is the well-being of all who  live and work in the Village, staff and residents alike. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement!”
 
“At our village we have a Managing Residents Committee, a Social Committee and a Bar Committee.  The residents committee became incorporated in 2014, which allowed it to hold a bar licence and run a bar.  This meant all operating funds would be managed by the Bar Committee which in liaison with the Social Committee, then channels profits back into social activities for the residents and on request pays for equipment not funded by the owner eg music stands library books etc.  The three committees are autonomous but work closely together.  In fact, some residents are on two or all three committees.  This makes communication easy as we support each other and work very well together.
 
As Chair, I have found our operator and present Manager very supportive – as demonstrated during and after the cyclone.  They communicate well. Gone are the days when residents felt they couldn’t email office staff or the Manager if they needed to know something”, says a resident. 
 
A resident at another retirement village says:
 
“The catalyst for our Residents Committee coming together was the arrival, virtually on mass, of 60 or so new entrants in 2019.  We comprised 40% or so of the village’s independent residents.  Overall we were a younger cohort.
 
Many of us saw a place for a committee though sensed that support was perhaps at best 50/50. We first formed a steering committee to canvas residents and to research what other villages did.  Six months on we called a special residents meeting at which a motion to form  a committee was arrived by a margin of seven votes out of 90.
 
Village management were neutral in this regard.  They didn’t oppose though also didn’t promote.  Head Office personnel were less positive.
 
Following establishment, however, management have supported us with the use of facilities  including photocopying, and on one occasion with airfares for an out-of-town guest speaker.  The operator’s Wellington regional manager helpfully facilitated our first few meetings with management.  There were also no barriers to our Legislative Review meetings”.
 
Terms of Reference
 
The committee’s foundation Terms of Reference described the role in terms of assisting in the optimal development of the village’s physical and social environment and at all times working constructively and in goodwill with management.
 
We were clear that we fitted between residents and management,  primarily as a voice for residents.
 
The first sections of these terms of reference were amended at the first AGM to actively promoting the physical and mental wellbeing and the independence of the village's independent and supported living residents.  The shift is significant in terms of how roles and functions have evolved.
 
Some of the committees early work included:

• Protocols around staff and contractor access to our apartments including unannounced walk ins
• Emergency procedures better fit for purpose for residents
• Fire and other emergency evacuation processes
• Out of hours ambulance access.  Ambulance staff had previously needed to jump fences and knock on apartment doors for access and direction.
• The committee also progressed road and traffic safety matters.  The outcomes include agreement by the council to seek a speed reduction from 50 km/hr to 30km/hr past the village, electronic  speed alert signs for each lane, a. protected crossing (ie a centre island with railings), and a designated parking bay for goods service vehicles (including for emergency services).  Separately though the Regional Council we have secured an additional bus stop shelter. 

 
Alongside these legacy and systemic matters, the committee meets monthly, normally with the manager in attendance or part. 
 
Observations:
 
The resident notes the following:

• Increasing average ages (and higher entry age thresholds) potentially make   traditional committee structures difficult to sustain.

 

• The very large village operators seem to very tightly centrally manage.  Their village roles, as here, are supervisory and administrative rather than management, which can create challenges.

 

• This raises an opportunity for committees, that well used, can be of benefit to local village operations, and can say things to the operator at national office in a way and at a level that village managers can’t.

 

• Looking at other villages, I sense that those without paid activities programme staff seem to have more vibrant committees; especially when their activities roles are seen as facilitating rather than provision.

 

• I think that the Retirement Commission 2023 Annual Investigation Report makes good   points re the expectations that village promotions unnecessarily or unintentionally create.  That is, especially around unrealistic expectations of wrap-around support.

 
I think committees have a key role in helping ensure that these ‘independent’ years are more, rather than less – including by pushing back on processes and messages that better fit independent rather than care living. 
 
 
Ref: Aged Advisor 2024

​As life continues to jog along and you enjoy falling into a pattern of behaviour and familiar ways of doing things, it is easy to get left behind and slow to a walking pace as new types of technology become available.  Even terminology changes and it may seem like you’ve missed the technology boat and decided it’s all too hard.  However! Don’t be discouraged. There are many exciting apps, websites and gadgets that have been designed to improve your life at any age.
 
Taking time to upskill yourself on how to use digital technology safely and to become a little more tech savvy can open up a whole new universe of opportunity.
 
Let’s explore the choices.

Connect with loved ones

Jumping online can help you make and maintain vital relationships with friends and family through online video, chat groups and social media.  Particularly important throughout the Covid pandemic when we were unable to leave our homes or travel overseas, connecting online was a lifeline for so many. Not only for meetings, use this technology to have a family video chat with those spread across the world.  Set up a Facebook page and search and connect with your friends so you can do fun, feel good things like share funny pictures and comment on photos. As you learn to use social media you will need to know how to protect yourself online by being aware of avoiding scams and fake social media profiles.  If someone you don’t recognize asks to be your friend, do not accept! You cannot be as trusting in the online world as you’d expect – remember to not take people at face value and don’t be afraid of appearing rude by not accepting a friend request or blocking a person who seems a bit suspect.  Chances are that cute trusting looking lady in her profile picture is actually an opportunistic dude looking to make some quick cash offshore!
 
Enjoy the convenience of internet banking
 
Gone are the days when banks are only open Monday to Friday and close at 5! All major banks offer easy to navigate online banking 24/7 where you can simply view all your accounts, transfer money and pay bills and invoices quickly and conveniently. If you’re not on a desktop or laptop then use the bank’s app! You can connect by sending an email and avoid queues. If you need to see an ACTUAL human to discuss more complex banking transactions, it’s straight forward to make an appointment through the contact us tab and visit your local branch.
 
Online shopping
 
Shopping online is an efficient and cost-effective way to overcome the weekly groceries battle. You can put your lifetime skills of catching the best deals at the supermarket into new use online too, as supermarket shopping sites use a list of weekly specials and make it easy to compare prices. Keep in mind that by shopping online you’re overriding the associated physical challenges you may find you’re beginning to battle at the shops as you age. Instead you can sit in the warm comfort of your slippers and fleecy jumper to get whatever morsel has caught your fancy recently…as well as topping up the tea, coffee and toilet paper.
 
When it comes to payment, you’ll be charged a small service fee which covers a staff member collecting your items off the shelves, and the cost for delivery. Be careful using public WiFi -and make sure you use a strong password and use a different one for every account. It’s a good idea to use a two-factor authentication on every account you can for an extra layer of security. When you whip out your credit card, use a well respected payment service that will protect you if something goes wrong, or consider using a disposable credit card (like Prezzy Card) where you can only spend what has been pre-loaded. Make a regular habit of checking your credit card statements to make sure your card hasn’t got into the wrong hands.

​Access to interesting websites and information
 
What’s your hobby? Even if you’re into some really wacky stuff I can guarantee there will be an enthusiast group out there with at least a basic website or Facebook group you can join. Immerse yourself in whatever it is that floats your boat and connect with people who love it too! Read, observe, scroll till your heart’s content but remember to think before you publish anything online as it’s almost impossible to remove completely – even if it’s later deleted or modified or you’ve changed your mind. When you’re using social networks, remember your p’s and q’s and avoid using language or pictures that could offend others or embarrass you. Most importantly, keep your personal information private, and don’t post photos of others or share their information without  getting their permission first.
 
Gaming and VR:
 
I’m not talking Mario Carts or Dungeons and Dragons – although if you’re into that we won’t judge! If you’re new to computers, start simple with a game you’re familiar with or enjoy already and build on that. Games such as Sudoku, Mahjong, and Solitaire are great for older adults who enjoy challenging themselves mentally. Simulation games such as SimCity are designed to mimic real-world activities and can be fun for people who enjoy managing and building things. There are also exciting adventure games which involve exploration and puzzle-solving – try Myst, The Witness, or Life is Strange. Keep it casual with games that don’t require a lot of time or effort and can be played in short bursts if you don’t have a great attention span or much time. There are lots of fun options like Candy Crush, Bejewelled and Tetris. Game designers are beginning to cotton on to designing games more specifically suited to the older generation. An article relating to Game Design for the Elderly on Australian website hellocare.com.au investigated this further, speaking to game designer for Mini Mammoth Games, David McCann. His message is that developing games for the elderly is an exciting and innovative approach to aged care, and game developers should prioritise creating an accessible and engaging experience for this demographic. “The positive effects of games have been well-documented” and there is ample opportunity to use games as a tool to motivate and engage elderly individuals.

​In the same category as gaming, but providing a different, more immersive experience, you’ll find Virtual Reality (VR). For the uninitiated into this virtual world, VR creates a computer-generated experience like nothing you’ve encountered before. VR equipment involves a headset and a type of hand held controller in each hand. Once the headset has been fitted you will be able to view an animated 3D image with realistic dept h and colour which makes you feel like you’re actually INSIDE a full depth film, with the ability to interact with characters and the environment using the controllers and body movement. The type of physical interaction varies depending on the game chosen for the level of ability of the player. For older people there are a range of more passive VR games suitable for their personal interests and physical abilities which would offer a wonderfully new and exciting experience. VR suppliers are beginning to open lounge style facilities in shopping centres where people from all walks of life can pay for a session on VR. Aged Care facilities can bus groups of residents to one of these lounges as an outing so they can enjoy an energising, safe new experience. It’s interesting to note that trials of VR on residents at different stages of  dementia have shown an improved quality of life, including reduced wandering and anxiety among residents.
 
Photography and video
 
Digital cameras have really come a long way. So many enjoy the instant gratification of point click and view and mobile phones make this so easy. Even those with a below average understanding of technology can navigate to the camera icon and push the button! Try adding a filter to adjust the colours and tone of your picture or edit with a free, easy to use tool like CapCut then share it online. As mentioned earlier though remember to gain permission first from people you’ve snapped a photo or taken a video of it you plan to share it on online.
 
Tips on how to teach an elder in your life the basics:
 
Do you know someone who needs your help navigating tech right from the start – or maybe just needs a leg up as they already know the basics? Teaching older people to use technology can be challenging, but with patience and the right approach it can be a rewarding experience for you both. Break it up into easy to digest chunks so not to overwhelm either of you while you’re just getting started:
 
Basics: Teach them how to turn on their device, navigate the interface and how to use the basic functions like the keyboard, mouse, touch screen and home button.
 
Keep it simple: Avoid technical jargon and use simple language. Break down the instructions into small steps and if possible use visual aids like diagrams, pictures or videos to help them understand.
 
Be patient! Everyone has their own way and speed of learning. Encourage them to ask questions – even if they think they are silly!  Offer positive feedback when they make progress and be encouraging.
 
Practice: The more they practice the more they’ll build confidence and reinforce what they’ve learned.
 
Use real-life examples: Illustrate how technology can make life easier and practice by using video chat or ordering groceries online.
 
Provide support: Be available to offer ongoing support once you’ve finished your session. You could suggest resources like online tutorials or help forums.
 
Make it fun! Try playing games or using apps that appeal to their personality or sense of humour. There are games and apps designed to help seniors learn technology which keep them engaged and motivated to continue learning.
 
Ref: Aged Advisor 2024

​Suzi Brown explains
 
Independent review website aged advisor has found 36.9% of  people who returned reviews say location was the most important factor when making their retirement choice.  So, what are our choices?  Who’s got a bit clever and successfully thought outside the box. Are our only options to live with family, continue in our own homes for as long as possible, or graduate to the retirement village?
 
Cruise Ship Living
 
Retirement is an opportunity to throw the 9-5 routine out the window and invent a new life for yourself.  Take a look at the resource ingredients you have to hand and bake yourself a ‘one of a kind’ retirement  - like retiring to a cruise ship!  If you look at the idea of retirement falling into thirds of progressive ability  - the first third being active, this idea isn’t as outlandish out there as you think.  A cruise ship offers the same amenities a retirement community does, while afloat!  Lodgings, dining and scheduled activities are conveniently bundled into one price, plus the opportunity to explore places you have never been.  In fact, cruising the world could actually be cheaper or similarly priced than other options.  For those who are good at budgeting and economical with activities, it’s worth considering.  Cruises include WIFI, laundry, food and shore excursions too.  Retiring on a cruise ship is an intriguing idea, whether you book a year’s worth of back-to-back cruises on a traditional cruise ship or purchase a floating apartment on a residential ship.  Companies that cater to the retirement community include Storylines MV Narrative, which offers a new way to cruise, creating luxury residential communities at sea.  It is set to circumnavigate the globe every three years, stopping at ports as it goes.  Another well-known company is “The World’, and Victoria Cruises Line has plans to refurbish two vessels for residential ships for long-term living. Some even allow you to bring your pets on board! You can lease a cabin for years at a time and pay yearly living charges which include food. Thinking outside cost, you will build a real spirit of community with those doing the same. A floating retirement community if you will?
​
A few hints would be:

• Watch for deals and book in advance – generally you can book most cruises 18-24 months in advance.
• Make sure your health insurance covers international travel
• Look into health and safety measures aboard

 
It’s a maintenance free lifestyle, you won’t have to worry about shopping, meal prep or boring home maintenance (and you can forget about washing the windows).  You might also be able to rent out your cabin when you’re not using it, helping offset the cost of your cabin.  It may not be for everyone but allow yourself a moment to dream!  When the cost of living is skyrocketing, it’s the one thing that remains free.

​Communal multi-generational living
 
Communal multi-generational living might not be everyone, but there’s no denying it would benefit those older people suffering from loneliness when they leave a family home, social connections and employment.  Many developers of urban senior-living rentals have cottoned on to the value of intergenerational living.  Basically this means integrating senior apartments with younger renters with the idea of sharing costs and creating friendships and community. This concept is taking off globally, with seniors jumping at the opportunity to continue to feel vital to community rather than a traditional retirement village.  Some developers have purposely built senior living facilities near university campuses – meaning students get a chance to live closer to campus while learning from elders real life experience and companionship.  It’s an idea that also works well for city businesses too, who benefit from retirees helping support shops, cafes and local amenities. It’s not a new idea for many cultures around the world, but one that has got a bit lost in western society.  Pasifika families particularly want their children to grow up with their grandparents.  It takes a village to raise a child, and that’s particularly true for Pasifika whanau who don’t want to leave anyone behind. In New Zealand, our first multigenerational state home has been planned and built with this idea in mind.  There are five new state homes built in Auckland’s Papakura which each have three to six bedrooms with two storeys and were designed by Pacific architects for extra size and circulation and are wheelchair accessible.
 
The Motorhome Life
 
If travel appeals to you while you enjoy the ‘first third’ of retirement living, but cruise ships aren’t your cup of tea, think about swapping a boat for wheels.  There are some really flash motorhomes available where you can feel extremely comfortable and live frugally for as long as your health allows.  No mortgage or rent cost is enticing and there are lots of other retirees in the same boat..err camper!  To choose this route, start planning with plenty of time before your official retirement.  You’ll need to consider how you’ll pay for your new home on wheels and that might include learning to live on a reduced budget which will set you in good stead for once the wheels start turning on your new adventure.  A motorhome is most likely smaller than your current abode so think Marie Kondo and thank each unneeded item for its service and input in your life, then move it on to the donation box.  A less cluttered life is truly a blessing if you can allocate a few hours every so often to have a clear out, and you’ll thank yourself when the time comes to move into your new home.  Just don’t get rid of too much!  You’ll still need your fishing gear and keep some good quality plates and glasses. Join up to the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association and you’ll only play $5 a night as opposed to campgrounds which can be up to $50. Yes, there are some drawbacks like a potentially long period of rain causing you to stay in a small indoor area for a long time, so don’t discard all the board games during  your tidy out!
 
Teeny Tiny Whare
 
A tiny home could be just the ticket if you’d like to live a more simple, inexpensive retirement, while enjoying independence in your twilight years.  Release some money from selling your family home and afford a caravan to get around while enjoying the benefits of a new and comfortable tiny home. Connected to the multi-generational living concept -  you can have a tiny home on your child or family member’s property and enjoy the combination of having your own space but also your grandchildren and whanau close at hand if you’d like extra company, or to support you in sickness.  If it all sounds a bit teeny for you, add a large wrap around deck for outdoor living with roof and an additional ‘pod’ as a nice little office or workshop for those who need the space.  Issues could include connecting sewerage, water and power, but there are solutions for each of these with a little research and imagination depending on what is available on the land you choose to settle your tiny house on.  There are some very satisfying other solutions too for storage and if you get the right architect, you can get everything including the kitchen sink comfortably in a tiny house sized footprint!

Flee the country!
 
Have you seen the movie The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel starring Judi Dench, Bill Nighy and Maggie Smith?”  The basic premise is that several British retirees decide to move to Jaipur, India, to stay in the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, advertised as an exotic retirement home.  After an eventful journey to Jaipur, the retirees discover the hotel is a dilapidated site, run by the energetic, but inept manager.  The idea I’m getting at is this, although the movie plot was off to a somewhat jumpy start with the retirement home not being all it was cracked up to be, why not grab onto the idea to move to Ecuador, Portugal or India?  Foreign countries can offer top class hospital assistance,  fantastic weather, and if you don’t choose a normal tourist spot – it can be as cheap as chips too.
 
The low prices in Ecuador are a big attraction for expat retirees.  Both the cost of day-to-day living and real estate can be far cheaper.  You can receive up to 50% off public transportation, utilities, recreational activities and events, plus reduced or eliminated income, capital gains, estate,  property, vehicle and sales taxes.  You are also eligible for duty free importation of household goods and expeditated services (skipping the lines in places like banks).   A pensionado visa in Ecuador allows you to work even though you’re meant to be retired.  This means you have the option of topping up your pension by doing a part time job such as teaching English.
 
In Britain, Portugal is becoming an increasingly popular retirement option.  Lured by the climate, outdoors lifestyle and lower cost of living, Portugal also has a reputation for safety, and the added bonus of friendly locals.  An expert in the field, Christina Hippsley from the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in London says, “Apart from the 3,000 sunshine hours a year in the Algarve, the country has more doctors per capita than England, and life expectancy is longer – no doubt due to the healthy diet and outdoor lifestyle.”

​For whatever option you choose, it would be prudent to organise a trip to dip your toe in the water of foreign retirement and get a feel for the place first. While you’re there take the time to have a chat with retired locals – before you know it you could be ready to take the plunge into more sunshine and improved lifestyle!
 
Whatever option you decide to pursue, cruise-ship, communal living, tiny house or overseas, be sure to do your due diligence, plan and discuss with others who have experienced similar adventures.  And remember to step outside your comfort zone – life is for living!
 
 
 
Ref:      Aged Advisor NZ
            NZ’s Best Magazine

Is Funding Charter Schools a ‘Slap in the face of disabled children’?
 
Recently the Associate Education Minister David Seymour announced $153 million had been set aside for 15 new charter schools and to convert 35 state schools into charter schools.

​This announcement has been met with dismay by many parents with disabled children who struggle to receive enough support for their disabled children at school.  Mark Potter president of NZ Educational Institute (NZEI) said ‘the $153m could pay for 700 full time teacher assistants across the country’.  This would go some way to closing the gap between the support currently provided for disabled children’s education and that which is needed.  The NZEI estimate it would cost $60,000 a student per year in charter schools compared to $9000 a student per year in state schools.
 
Others would argue that charter schools provide an opportunity for disabled students to receive an education in a more suitable environment. Or would this increase the isolation and marginalisation of disabled people?
 
According to Labour, charter schools are a failed experiment and should not be revisited. Others believe the money saved reducing the school lunches programme budget is helping fund charter schools, robbing one large, disadvantaged group to help pay for a failed experiment.

The government hasn’t yet shared their intentions for charter schools. There is very little detail about who these schools would cater for, whether they would follow the New Zealand curriculum and be subject to the same teaching standards as state schools. This makes it hard to judge whether this is a reasonable move or not.
Whatever your view on charter schools, is the fact remains that the education system is not resourced adequately to meet the education needs of disabled students.
 
For more on charter schools check out The Press for Maddy Croad’s article In the Education section, Friday 17 May 2024.
 
https://www.thepress.co.nz/nz-news/350278604/charter-school-funding-slap-face-disabled-children-mum-says