Preparing for Possible Frailty or Disability

Preparing for Possible Frailty or Disability

Some physical conditions are more likely to occur in older people, but illness and disability are not inevitable in old age. Some older people do however need support in older age and planning ahead for frailty or disability will make it easier to adapt as changes are needed. Planning may include practical measures such as modifications to the home or home support arrangements.

Meeting changing health needs includes being aware of changes to our body and its ability to cope. Adapting to increasing frailty or disability also means anticipating the emotional aspects of coping. This can include overcoming fear, regaining lifeskills, re-establishing community contact and regenerating self-esteem.

Here are some websites that you may find helpful.

WEKA - What Everyone Keeps Asking

Everybody is a site to search through and covers many health conditions.

Enable New Zealand is a resource centre for people with disabilities, their families, disability support organisations and health professionals Enable aims to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities through by providing access to information, housing alterations and vehicle modifications, research and funding of equipment, and purchase.
Some services are available nationally while other services are provided regionally as contracted by the Ministry of Health, or ACC.

The Health Research Council offers links to sites around the world and New Zealand relating to health.

The New Zealand Disability Strategy is available for you to read. Find out more about the strategy by clicking above.

Disabled Persons International is a human rights organisation committed to the protection of the rights of people with disabilities.

Yes Ability Centre provides community-based resources and services to people with disabilities, their family/whanau, support people and health professionals in North Shore City. Their aim is to give people information which enables them to make informed choices about their lives. They have an online shop for disability products.

DmeDirect is a website tool that enables the elderly community and their families to research aids that can greatly assist in making everyday living easier and to extend the period of independent living.

The website details over 150 products from large items, such as scooters, through to aids that assist with the little things in life - from putting on socks, opening jars and help with bathing. There are specific areas for products to assist with arthritis, stroke, hip operations and continence issues.

There is also a mattress and seating evaluation service available to ensure you are getting the right product for your needs.

Products can be ordered and delivered directly to your door by going to www.dmedirect.co.nz or if you do not have internet access give them a call on 0800 890 616.