Our knowledgeable key workers are well-versed in navigating the Mate Wareware-Dementia journey, from getting a diagnosis within our health system to coping with changes as a whānau.  With a timely diagnosis and the right support in place, people with Dementia can continue to enjoy living life to the fullest in their community for many years.  We can support you and your whānau to plan ahead and feel more confident about the future.

Key workers can assist individuals and whānau with navigating the following:

• how to get a diagnosis
• coming to terms with a diagnosis
• understanding dementia
• dementia education and information
• how to access funded supports
• how to access socially and cognitively stimulating activities
• adapting to changes within relationships
• grief and loss related to change
• managing changes in the dementia journey
• considering decisions around care and options
• legal and financial information
• abuse/neglect
• providing assessments for a Total Mobility Card
• help navigating safety concerns

One of our Key Workers can arrange to meet you and/or your whānau at your home or at the Dementia Canterbury office to discuss the new diagnosis, your situation, including any concerns, questions or needs you may have. Key worker support enables you to access information, dementia education and materials, and a range of Dementia Canterbury activity opportunities available in the wider community. Based on your choices and unique situation, a Key Worker can advocate on your behalf to help you navigate the ‘system’ when necessary.

Referrals can come via your GP, the Memory Assessment Clinic, Older Persons Mental Health Service and any other service within the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB), by completing the referral form. As long as there is a confirmed diagnosis you may also self-refer in order to access Key Worker support by speaking to a Duty Person at the Dementia Canterbury office by calling 03 379 2590.