Age Concern New Zealand wishes everyone a safe and fun filled Halloween.
We wish everyone a safe Halloween but we need to remember that not everyone wants to be part of Halloween celebrations.
For some older people Halloween can be a frightening and scary time so here are some helpful tips so everyone can enjoy themselves and come away with fond memories:
- Make it a family affair and go trick or treating with your kids or a group from your neighbourhood.
- Call your neighbours in advance to make sure it’s okay to call in to trick-or-treat
- If you don’t want trick-or-treaters calling print or make a sign for your letterbox or window saying no thanks. (New Zealand Police have had downloadable signs)
- If you are a trick-or-treater, respect the people who have a sign asking for you to stay away
- Keep your lights on and guests outside
- Keep your eye out for your older family members, friends and neighbours this Halloween and make sure we all get to enjoy the celebration.
Remember you can help make this a great celebration for your family and community and a great opportunity to connect with your older neighbours.
If you want to go one step further Age Concern New Zealand would like to encourage all Kiwis to sign up to their Dignity Champion Campaign to show a commitment to breaking down ageism and stereotypes and encouraging dignity and respect for older people.
Become an Age Concern Dignity Champion www.ageconcern.org.nz... this Halloween and involve and celebrate the older people in your lives.
Have your shopping habits changed?
Nelson retailers say sales have hit a worrying low, prompting them to cut staff numbers and tighten their belts. A street stall vendor told council that as well as the cost of living crisis, shopping patterns had changed, with more people making purchases online from places like Temu. Do you still head into town to buy essentials? Or are you hitting the internet?
Best medical alarms
Do you feel less steady on your feet than you used to be, or perhaps have already experienced a fall or seizure? If so, a medical alarm can help you regain your independence and confidence.
If you have a medical emergency or fall, just press the button on your personal medical alarm and speak to an operator through the built-in speaker. If you can’t speak, an ambulance will be dispatched immediately.
There are a number of different medical alarm options available in New Zealand, so you will be able to find one that suits your needs.
Click read more for the full article.
Update your Covid protection
It might not be making quite so many headlines these days, but unfortunately, Covid is still here. If you’re 65 or over, taking care of yourself is just as important as ever.
The good news is, keeping up to date with the Covid vaccine can help protect you from serious illness. It’s free and recommended for you and many others as long as you haven’t had the vaccine, or Covid, in the last 6 months.
To book your vaccination, go to BookMyVaccine.nz or talk to your healthcare provider.