Community Social Work

Age Concern Otago provides a variety of Elder Abuse Services to help older people/kaumatua in abusive situations and to prevent abuse by providing information, advocacy, education programmes, and support.

Our professional community social workers help older people / kaumātua and their carers. We provide support and advocacy so that older people can be happy, healthy, and safe from harm.

We can help by:

• Listening and discussing problems relating to abuse and neglect.

• Assisting older people / kaumātua to improve their quality of life

• Offering options that may include referral to other professional agencies.

• Supporting informed choices

• Working with a resource team to assist victims, caregivers, and their families.

If you feel something is not right... Tell someone!

If you have concerns about the way you or someone you know is being treated, spoken to, or cared for, or if you are concerned about how money is spent and property is being used, we offer a free and confidential service to help.

Report suspected mistreatment to your local Elder Abuse and Neglect Response Service (EARS) or make a referral using the contacts on this page.

If you believe an older person is in a life-threatening situation, phone 111 or your local police station.

Help raise awareness by

• Talking about the issue

• Challenging injustice and ageist stereotypes

• Be an advocate

• Treat older people / kaumātua with respect

• Love and cherish your older relatives / kaumātua

• Keep in contact and talk with older friends,whānau, neighbours and relatives frequently

• Support older people / kaumātua to spend their money how they wish.

• Encourage and support older people / kaumātua to make their own decisions.

• Honour older people’s / kaumātua’s wisdom

• Be aware and alert for possibility of abuse

• Look around and take note of what may be happening with your kaumātua, older neighbours and acquaintances

• Ask questions and listen

• Learn more from Age Concern New Zealand.

• Know how to recognise signs of elder abuse and neglect.

What are the warning signs?

The following MAY indicate an older person is being abused:

• Unexplained behaviour, sleeping or eating habits

• Withdrawal and/or edginess

• Fear of a particular person

• Confusion

• Unexplained injuries

• Drowsiness (due to over-medication)

• Recoiling from touch

• Unusual withdrawals from bank accounts

• Unpaid bills, lack of money for necessities.

Why don’t older people seek help when they are abused?

Some of the reasons why an older person does not tell anyone about the abuse are they:

• blame themselves for the abuse

• are ashamed that the abuser is a family member

• depend on the abuser for support

• have low self-confidence and self-esteem

• don’t want to make a fuss

• are afraid that if they complain the abuse will get worse

• are isolated, making it difficult for them to tell anyone

• do not know who to tell or how to get help

• have dementia or an illness that prevents them from telling anyone.

ELDER ABUSE THRIVES IN SECRECY. IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT HOW YOU ARE BEING TREATED, SPEAK OUT.

Falls are the number one cause of injury, hospital visits due to trauma, and death from an injury among people aged 65 and older.

It is estimated that one in three older adults falls each year. Falls among older adults are a serious issue, but research has shown that many fall risks can be reduced.

Falls by older people are almost always associated with weakened leg muscles and poor balance.

There are many different factors that can increase the risk of falling. These include:

• Past falls

• Hazards in the home and community

• Problems walking

• Balance problems

• Weakness

• Improper footwear

• Chronic diseases

• Multiple medications

• Poor vision

• Depression

• Memory problems

• Behaviours like rushing

Because there are many different factors that contribute to falls, there are different recommendations for reducing falls. These include:

Talking with a Health Professional to identify and treat medical problems that might lead to falls. This includes discussing any previous falls with the doctor, reviewing medications with a doctor or pharmacist, and getting vision checked at least once a year.

Getting Regular Physical Activity Make a plan to have regular physical activity either in a class or at home. The most effective types of activities to reduce fall risk improve balance, strength, flexibility, and endurance.

Being Aware of Safety Hazards in the Home and Community includes looking at the home to identify fall hazards and making changes for safety, also called home modifications. It is also important not to rush and to be aware of fall risks when outside.

Falling over isn't part of the ageing process.

Many falls are preventable, and we want to help you stay on your feet and living the life you want to live. Check out Live Stronger For Longer.

Steady As You Go© (SAYGo) is Age Concern Otago's peer-led exercise initiative designed to help older people / kaumātua reduce their likelihood of having a fall.

The exercises are similar to those learned from a physiotherapist.

• Include simple exercises, seated in a chair, standing, and walking

• Proven to improve balance, spatial awareness, flexibility, and leg strength

• Participants feel physically better and more able

• Class members enjoy being with a friendly group of like-minded people

• A range of light ankle weights is used for leg-strengthening exercises.

All participants are encouraged to work at their own pace.

Classes are for one hour once per week.

太極智

Age Concern Otago's Tai Chi (tī-chē) exercise classes are peer-led and intuitively designed to help older people / kaumātua improve their physical condition.

Tai Chi has been shown to help prevent falls and improve health and quality of life. It is shown by scientific studies to improve:

• Balance

• Muscle strength

• Flexibilty

• General fitness

• Spatial awareness

• Relaxation

• Immunity

• Wellbeing

Tai Chi is also beneficial for back pain, arthritis, diabetes, breathing, and stamina.

Tai Chi movements emphasise the importance of weight transference to develop balance, decrease the risk of falls, and reduce the fear of falling.

Age Concern Otago's Tai Chi programme uses Dr. Paul Lam’s modified Tai Chi which is based on Sun Style Tai Chi.

Tai Chi is a gentle challenge as participants are on their feet for the hour and more coordination and memory are involved than in Steady As You Go©.

Classes are available across Otago. Classes are for one hour once per week.

• Dance-based movements

• Seated, standing, and walking movements

• Improve balance, stability, flexibility, and coordination

Dunedin

South, North, & Central Otago

Dunedin

South, North, & Central Otago

Dunedin

“Let's Love Later Life!”

Age Concern Otago’s series of independent living seminars are designed to assist you with having a sense of control and getting more out of life.

The programme of activities is designed and delivered in partnership with older people, community services, groups, and support agencies.

The 2-hour seminars offer an opportunity to explore remaining connected to activities, friends, and community, how to live safely at home, and maintain a healthy mind and body.

A session will cover planning for the future to ensure that you are well cared for and protected in the way you choose to be.

Each seminar will include:

• information, resources, and expert speakers

• opportunities to ask questions

• gather useful and practical information

• meet new people in a relaxed, social environment

• 2 hours of various subject matter relating to living well

• FREE light lunch & refreshments

Independent Living Seminars are free to all older people, both members and non-members of Age Concern Otago.

A koha towards expenses is always very much appreciated.

A Guide For Health And Wellbeing

Age Concern Otago has released this updated Independent Living Guide; it’s designed to help Otago’s older people age well and stay in good health.

The 24-page guide covers topics such as communicating about your health, being well within, making your home a safe place, preparing your affairs, getting out and about, and keeping connected to your community. It’s crammed with resources, information, and suggestions to assist in making informed decisions.

The guide is free and available in the Dunedin Office if you would like to pop in to collect one, alternatively, click here to download the full PDF guide.

What can your smartphone do for you? Join the next SilverTech course in your area to learn the basics and:

• What is WiFi vs Mobile Data?

• Sorting your contacts

• Messaging and emailing

• Using and navigating popular apps

• Connecting socially with friends/family

• Online safety, and much more…

View our upcoming SilverTech courses on the What’s On page.

What Is Staying Safe Driving?

Staying Safe is an approved NZ Transport Agency driving safety programme which Age Concern Otago deliver with a trained facilitator.

Staying Safe workshops are held throughout the Otago area assisting over 65s refamiliarise themselves with traffic rules and safer driving practices, as well as increase their knowledge about other transport options available to assist them stay mobile for as long as possible.

Visit our What's On page for a list of upcoming workshops

Visit our What's On page for a list of upcoming workshops

A driver licence is an important symbol of independence and many older New Zealanders rely on their car to get around – for shopping, appointments or visiting friends and family.

The workshop is facilitated in an informal manner using video, whiteboard, group discussions, anecdotes, and other material from workbooks.

Why Should I Attend A Staying Safe Course?

The older road user, regardless of blame, is likely to be more seriously injured or killed than a younger person when involved in a crash of similar severity. This increased risk is mainly due to the greater fragility and vulnerability of age rather than any inability to drive safely.

Most drivers receive NO further training from the day they first get their Driver’s Licence.It is important for all drivers, regardless of age, to regularly and honestly assess their own driving capabilities to keep themselves and others safe. It’s important to remember that the ageing process can affect a range of skills essential to driving –including eyesight, memory, decision-making and reaction times.

Rules and regulations change over time. It is your responsibility as a road user to keep up to date with those changes, especially since they are usually designed to increase safety for all.

Dunedin is ranked top of the communities-at-risk register for serious and fatal crashes at intersections. You owe it to yourself and those around you to do all you can to avoid becoming another road statistic.

What Do You Get?

• A FREE workshop run by a trained facilitator

• A FREE course workbook

• An opportunity to discuss common issues and experiences with your peers

• Increased confidence

• Refreshed knowledge of safe driving skills

• Coping skills for how the ageing process may effect you

• NO tests or exams

• An opportunity to increase the safety of all road users by becoming a safer road user

• Ideas for alternatives to driving

The Age Concern Otago building at 9 The Octagon provides a place where people can meet others who have similar interests and take part in a varied activity programme, seminars or events.

Gym

We have a private, well-equipped gym available to all

Age Concern Otago and Octagon Club members, free of charge - Monday to Friday during office hours (9 am - 3 pm).

Room Hires

Age Concern Otago building and the South Dunedin Community Hall venue hires are available for small or large groups; ideal for seminars, meetings, and private functions with a well-equipped kitchen for functions.

For bookings and additional information, contact Age Concern Otago.

03 477 1040

Opened in February 2023, our new centre is located at 1 John Street in Balclutha.

Walk-ins are welcome on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10am - 12pm

Please contact our South Otago Coordinator for further information on 03 418 0536

The Octagon Club

The Octagon Club provides people over 55 an opportunity to remain active, have fun and attend activity groups of interest. It promotes an opportunity for members to remain socially connected and for friendships to grow.

Activities:

Regular bus trips (check with the committee).

Annual 5-day holiday adventures (as above).

Monthly book chats — an opportunity to share a loved book, discuss and chat about what you have read recently: check with Rose Hines.

Variety concerts — 3rd Wednesday of each month by local entertainers. Afternoon tea and raffles are included (not scheduled till Level 1).

The Octagon Club social group has monthly outings which may include attending live theatre or films, social dining, and shopping trips that include lunch.

Check out their Facebook page for current activities.

Contact Us

The Octagon Club

Phone (03) 477 1040

26 Bath Street / 9 The Octagon

PO Box 5355 DUNEDIN 9058

Annual subscription $25.00

Taieri Age Connect

Taieri Age Connect (previously known as Mosgiel Seniors) is now an independent information and social hub designed to bring together the senior citizens of Mosgiel and Taieri in a fun and social setting.

5 Hartstonge Avenue, Mosgiel

021 254 3232

taieriageconnect@gmail.com

There are a number of local activities available for seniors in the Waitaki district.

Oamaru

• gardener

• handyman

• beautician (non-diabetic nail cutting)

• painter

• hairdresser

• builder

• general cleaner

• pet care

• plus many more...

If you need a job done or want to be part of our referral service, please click below or get in touch by phoning 03 477 1040

Age Concern Otago coordinates around 650 volunteer drivers who collectively deliver more than 200 hot two-course meals to Dunedin clients every weekday, including public holidays.

Volunteers, using their own vehicle, pick up prepared meals every lunchtime from one of the nominated collection points throughout the city including Mosgiel. Each run takes about an hour to complete. Often our volunteers provide the only human contact with Meals on Wheels clients from day-to-day and both the volunteers and clients describe this as a rewarding experience.

If you would like to become part of our team you can contact our coordinator (details below).

Contact the Meals on Wheels Coordinator

mealsonwheels@ageconcernotago.co.nz

03 479 3055

Meals on Wheels Adopt-a-Route

The Meals-on-Wheels Adopt-a-Route programme is an easy and effective way for companies and organisations to get involved with their local community!

Even a small work group can Adopt-a-Route and deliver meals one day a week. By rotating the delivery team, individual staff members only deliver occasionally, however, the team would be helping seniors every week. It is a fantastic way for businesses to perform community service without over-committing staff time.

Contact the Meals on Wheels Coordinator at mealsonwheels@ageconcernotago.co.nz

03 477 1040

WHAT DOES THE ASSESSMENT INVOLVE? 

The assessment takes 20-30 minutes and will include taking a photo of you (see Privacy Statement) which is added to the swipe card. The assessment takes place in our Dunedin office or Mosgiel Seniors Hall (every Wednesday between 1 -2 pm). Phone 03 477 1040 to book an appointment. 

HOW MUCH IS THE SUBSIDY? 

The subsidy is 50% of the fare, up to a maximum of $25. If the total fare is more than $50 the client must meet the additional cost (note that the level of subsidy is not fixed and may vary in the future). 

WHERE CAN I USE MY CARD? 

A full list of operators is provided in the table here, the listing also shows the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles. 

ARE WHEELCHAIR-ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES AVAILABLE? 

Yes, please see the Transport Operators table. Please let the transport operator know you require a wheelchair-accessible vehicle and are a Total Mobility member when booking your transport.