"Dees" Dementia Social Group
The Dementia Group affectionately named “Dees” provides assistance for people living with dementia on the North Shore of Auckland.
We help families who have loved ones living at home with dementia, as well as Dementia Caregivers, providing 4 hours each Thursday of respite care.
The group meets from 10am – 2pm each Thursday at the church hall.
Activities include socialising, indoor bowls, exercising (seated), board games, quizzes, cards, bingo and singing. Over the last decade more than 100 people have attended Dees. One of the original members still attends.
Please contact Tangi Joseph 022 657 3223 or papehia03@gmail.com or alternatively contact the Church Office for more details.
Join Us 10am Thursday mornings
Why Choose the Dees Social Group?
The purpose of the group is to provide a social environment with a range of meaningful activities for people with a diagnosis of mild/moderate dementia. Along with the opportunity to provide a break for caregivers.
The group is led by a coordinator who is supported by volunteers.
How much does it cost?
A donation of $5 is requested from members.
Members need to bring their own lunch time meal, but the church provides morning tea and tea/coffee at lunch time.
What sort of activities are there?
Some examples of our group activities
Tai Chi
Ball skills
Social conversation
Indoor bowls
Board Games
Quizzes
Singing
Dancing
Entertainment
Exercise with Music
Strength and balance movement exercises
Who runs it?
The Co-ordinator is Tangi Joseph, who is employed by the parish and is supervised by Presbyterian Support’s Enliven Branch. Tangi is supported by a team of volunteers.
How many attend?
The number of attendees fluctuates with around 12 on the roll and an average attendance of 10.
It has been shown that running a successful social group for those with dementia is achievable with appropriate facilities, professional oversight and willing volunteers who are given appropriate training.
Above all it is beneficial to those who attend and is welcomed by caregivers who get 4 hrs of respite time.
Working as a partnership
Professional oversight of the groups’ activities, procedures and standards together with the meeting of training needs of the coordinator and volunteers is provided by Enliven, Presbyterian Support Northern.
Culturally appropriate
We are sensitive and responsive to our member’s cultural values. Cultural advocacy groups can be involved as needed.
