Positive Ageing & Aged Care Programme
Buller REAP offer an Aged Care and Positive Ageing Support programme. Our Positive Ageing team are able to help the elderly by providing information, advocacy, advice and support for their needs in the community. This is also a referral service for the community when there is an identified risk of elder abuse and neglect of individuals in their homes or in aged care facilities.
REAP CONTACT : MARGARET LILLEY – margaret@bullerreap.co.nz
What is Elder Abuse & Neglect?
Elder Abuse and Neglect are acts or patterns of behaviour that are harmful to the safety and well being of an older person.
How does Elder Abuse & Neglect happen?
Sometimes carers lack practical and emotional support in their role. Those caring for an older person have a relationship with that person which implies trust. Often the carer is a son or daughter, partner, other family member, friend, neighbour, paid carer, volunteer, or staff within a rest home or hospital. There is both intentional and unintentional ways abuse and neglect can happen in the community. Family, friends and professionals may be unaware of the demands placed on those who are providing care.
Forms of Abuse
FINANCIAL : Exploitation, illegal, or improper use of an older person’s money or property including changes to a will or other legal documents.
PHYSICAL : Hitting, slapping, pushing, restraining, or causing pain.
PSYCHOLOGICAL : Verbal, threats, intimidation, humiliation, ignoring, harassment, removal of decision-making powers, and isolation from friends and family.
SEXUAL : Unwanted sexual advances and improper touching.
NEGLECT : When carers do not, or are unable to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, medical or dental care. Neglect involves the withholding or inappropriate use of medications. Neglect occurs when an older person is denied access to others who could provide adequate care.
REAP CONTACT : MARGARET LILLEY – margaret@bullerreap.co.nz
DO YOU KNOW AN OLDER PERSON WHO NEEDS COMPANY?
You could be a volunteer visitor
Are you:
- Warm, friendly and do you enjoy a chat?
- Keen to spend time with an older person?
- Able to give about one hour per week on a regular basis?
- Respectful of confidentiality and of other cultures and ways of doing things?
- Ready to be part of a team and experience ongoing support and training?
If this is you, become an Accredited Visitor. Volunteers are carefully selected,and are trained and supported by our AVS coordinators.
The six steps to Accreditation:
- Contact Age Concern
- Attend an initial interview
- Participate in our orientation programme
- Be matched with an older person
- Visit on a regular basis for at least six months
- Receive accreditation
If you have doubts or concerns at any stage talk to your Coordinator. You have the right to withdraw at any time.
Being a visitor is a rewarding experience!
Contact Margaret Lilley 03 789 7659 or margaret@bullerreap.co.nz
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