.
When a loved one starts showing signs of memory loss or receives a diagnosis of dementia-mate wareware, it can be overwhelming. Families often find themselves unsure where to turn, worried about the future, and uncertain about how to provide the right kind of care.
At Home Carers, we understand these emotions deeply. Our mission is to help older people live with dignity, comfort, and connection in their own homes. But we also know that specialist community support plays a vital role in helping families navigate life after a diagnosis.
That’s why we’re proud to highlight Dementia Canterbury — a trusted, not-for-profit organisation supporting people living with dementia and their whānau throughout Canterbury and the West Coast. Their compassionate team helps families find clarity, strength, and hope when it’s needed most.
About Dementia Canterbury
Dementia Canterbury provides a comprehensive range of services designed to support both people living with dementia and those who care for them. Their focus is on understanding, empowerment, and connection — because while dementia changes life, it doesn’t stop it.
From the first signs of memory change through every stage of the condition, Dementia Canterbury walks alongside families to ensure they have the tools, education, and emotional support they need. Their services include:
- Dementia Advisors to help create personalised support plans after diagnosis.
- Group respite programmes for people living with dementia and their carers, offering opportunities to connect, stay active, and express creativity.
- Education seminars that build understanding and confidence.
- Specialised support for younger people with dementia.
- Culturally responsive services for Māori and their whānau.
👉 Learn more about their work at www.dementiacanterbury.org.nz.
How Dementia Canterbury Supports Older People
A dementia diagnosis can bring uncertainty — yet life does not stop. With the right support, people can continue to enjoy daily activities, maintain independence, and remain part of their communities.
Dementia Canterbury focuses on what people can do rather than what they can’t. Their services are built around helping individuals stay socially connected, engaged, and purposeful.
Here’s how they make a difference:
- Provide ongoing guidance and reassurance after diagnosis through their Dementia Advisor service.
- Offer stimulating and supportive group activities that encourage creativity, laughter, and a sense of belonging.
- Run education sessions for families and carers, empowering them with practical skills and understanding.
- Deliver tailored support for those diagnosed young, helping them navigate work, relationships, and changing needs.
- Support Māori and their whānau through culturally informed care and connections to community resources.
Through these services, Dementia Canterbury helps people living with dementia and those who love them to move forward with compassion, courage, and hope.
How Home Carers Complements Their Work
While Dementia Canterbury provides education, emotional guidance, and community support, Home Carers delivers the practical, in-home care that helps families put that advice into action every day.
Our carers support clients living with dementia by creating calm, consistent routines, offering companionship, and ensuring a safe, comfortable environment. We also provide respite care, so family members can rest knowing their loved one is in gentle, capable hands.
Together, Home Carers and Dementia Canterbury offer complete, wraparound support — combining knowledge, empathy, and daily care to help older people live meaningfully at home.
👉 Learn more about our in-home support options
Helpful Tips From Dementia Canterbury: Recognising the Early Signs of Dementia-Mate Wareware
Understanding the early signs of dementia can make a world of difference — early awareness allows families to seek help, access support, and plan ahead with confidence. Dementia Canterbury encourages people to look for subtle changes in thinking, communication, and daily habits.
Here are some of the common signs to watch for:
💡 Gentle Reminder: Not all memory changes mean dementia — but noticing these patterns early is important. If you have concerns about yourself or a loved one, reach out to Dementia Canterbury for advice and support.
You can read more about the early signs of dementia on their official website:
👉 https://dementiacanterbury.org.nz/about-dementia/what-dementia/signs-dementia/
Explore More Support with Dementia Canterbury
To learn more about Dementia Canterbury and their local services for people and families living with dementia-mate wareware, visit www.dementiacanterbury.org.nz.
You can also:
- Call: 0800 444 776
- Email: admin@dementiacanterbury.org.nz
- Address: BrainTree, 70 Langdons Road, Papanui, Christchurch
For compassionate in-home care that supports independence, comfort, and dignity, visit www.homecarers.co.nz.
Together, we’re helping New Zealand families live well with dementia — with understanding, connection, and care that feels personal.