A dementia diagnosis affects not only the person diagnosed, but the whole family and whanau. If you’re not the main carer, it can be difficult knowing how to help. When you are the main support for a person with dementia, it’s crucial that you take care of yourself as well. This means making sure you access the help and services you’re eligible for and getting help from family and friends whenever possible.

Supporter meetings provide a safe environment in which people supporting someone affected by a dementia can meet and share experiences. Each meeting will usually be facilitated by a Dementia Advisor who has a depth of knowledge about dementia and understanding of the issues and challenges facing informal carers.  The facilitator will also have a good understanding of the current services and resources available to support families and how these can be accessed.

These meetings are held in an informal atmosphere and benefits from attending will include:

• Information and advice on dementia and the services available to support families
• Self help and peer support
• An opportunity to raise and discover answers to questions or concerns.

Use our ‘What’s coming up?’ plan to see when and where Supporters Group sessions are happening around the wider Wellington area.  You are welcome to attend any Supporters Group  session outside of your usual location if preferred but let the Dementia Advisor know so they can welcome you.