1. Susanne Boonen Educator
Hi my name is Susanne Boonen and I am the Education Officer for Alzheimers Eastern Bay of Plenty. I have been in this role since mid last year and the greatest learning I have discovered since that time is that dementia is indeed complex.
I have come across a lot of amazing people during this time and each person I have met is unique. Each story and each journey is very different from the another and this is something I find empowering in how I can possibly make a positive difference in that persons world.

2. ‘Knowledge is Power’
Raising awareness about dementia is everyone’s responsibility, and my role as an Educator for Alzheimers EBOP allows me to work alongside many organisations, agencies and especially people in creating a better understanding about dementia.
We all know the phrase ‘knowledge is power’ – and this is also very important in dementia. If there is knowledge and an understanding then people will hopefully be more comfortable in making their own decisions about what their needs may be, especially in terms of care and support.
It is a bit like the ripples in a pond scenario, the more we are informed and can inform others the more we are headed towards creating a dementia friendly community, inclusive of everyone.

3. Living With Memory Loss Programme
Often when people first experience a diagnosis of memory loss, this can be very overwhelming. The Living with Memory Loss programme aims to help people with memory loss or early stage dementia, learn to live positively.  It is delivered over a two week period with four two-hour sessions and one follow up session the following week. It is free and delivered throughout the Eastern Bay.
During the program, participants have an opportunity to:
Obtain information and have questions answered
Meet with others who are in a similar situation
Share experiences and express feelings in a safe environment
Focus on maintaining and enhancing skills and abilities
Explore ways of managing now and into the future.
We have not yet confirmed programme dates for 2017 but if interested or, if you would like further information, please do let us know.  (Numbers are limited to six participants per programme).

4. Information Pamphlets and Library
There are a large range of booklets and information pamphlets available which cover many questions that people with dementia, their whānau and friends may have.  Please feel free to call into the Office, 38 Landing Road, Whakatane – (Professionals Building) Hours are Tuesday to Friday between 9.00am and noon.
Or phone; or
We also have a small library of books and DVDs which are available for loan on request. 

5. Speaking Presentations
I am always very happy to come and speak to anyone, or any Community Group or Service Organisations and Professionals.

6. Community Forum, Education and Training Days
Throughout the year we also run a Community Education Forum with several Education and Training Days which provide a comprehensive understanding of dementia and associated behaviours.
These topics can include
What is Dementia? What is Alzheimer’s Disease? Signs and symptoms Understanding behaviours Dementia as a DisAbility Legal matters and Support available in your community

7. What can I do to improve my brain health?
It has been proven that a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. It has been estimated that up to half the cases of Alzheimer’s disease worldwide may be the result of seven key modifiable risk factors: diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, depression, cognitive inactivity or low education, and physical inactivity.  If we are aware of these connections, changes made to our lifestyles at an early age will benefit not only our overall wellbeing, but also our brain.
What can I do to maintain or improve my brain health?  • Be physically active  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption  • Track your numbers: keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight within recommended ranges  • Stay connected socially and interact regularly with others  • Make healthy food choices, eat a well-balanced and healthy diet rich in cereals, fish, legumes and vegetables  • Reduce stress  • Challenge your brain by trying something new, such as playing games or learning a new language  • Protect your head by wearing a helmet when you engage in sporting activities 

8. Dementia Friendly Communities
As more organisations, businesses and individuals become aware of the needs of aging community members, and of those with various physical, developmental and intellectual disabilities, it follows that the unique needs of those with dementia — along with their care partners — must be carefully considered. While the world waits for a cure, we need more communities to embrace and engage those living with dementia instead of isolating and excluding them. This is an area where every single person within a community can make a difference.

9. A new definition – “Dementia is a shift in the way a person experiences the world around them” Dr Allen Power
“A new definition – Dementia is a shift in the way a person experiences the world around them” - Dr Allen Power

10. Thank you
It has long been recognised that attitude, skills and knowledge have the potential to change and influence the quality of life and a persons well being. Hence the black and white tablecloths. When I put them out I thought, no you cant do that, but in reality, sometimes we just need to be accepting and change the way we think. If we achieve the intended result then we have been successful. We can all make this difference.

11. 1. Look after your heart
Certain lifestyle choices can affect the health of your heart. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help to prevent high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, as not only do these increase the risk for heart attacks and strokes, they increase the chances of developing dementia later on in life. As well as being bad for your heart and lungs and putting you at risk of cancer and stroke, smoking has been linked to an increased risk of dementia. Giving up smoking can significantly reduce your risk of developing dementia. It is also recommended to limit alcohol consumption to two standard drinks on each drinking occasion.

12. 2. Be physically active
Leading an active lifestyle can help control your blood pressure and weight, as well as reducing the risk of type two diabetes and some forms of cancer. Some evidence also suggests that being physically active can help to reduce the risk of dementia, and getting active is proven to make us feel good, and can be a great way of socialising. Thirty minutes of gentle exercise such as brisk walking, five days a week is all you need to improve your health. If you have any health conditions that limit your ability to exercise make sure you talk to your doctor first.

13. 3. Follow a healthy diet
Our body and brain both rely on food for fuel. In order to keep it functioning properly we need to consume a healthy, balanced diet. While we need to do more studies into the benefits of specific foods or supplements, we do know that eating lots of fatty and processed foods which are high in saturated fat, sugar and/or salt is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, and is best avoided.  There is good evidence that eating a Mediterranean-style diet can reduce the risk of developing some forms of dementia. Remember, what is good for the heart is good for the brain.

14. 4. Challenge your brain Cognitive Reserve
By challenging the brain with new activities you can help build new brain cells and strengthen the connections between them. This may counter the harmful effects of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia pathologies. Activities that stretch your mind such as reading, crosswords and puzzles, and activities such as bridge, mahjong and chess are excellent. By challenging your brain you can learn some great new things such as learning a new language or taking up a new hobby or sport.

15. 5. Enjoy social activities
Social engagement may also be beneficial to brain health because it stimulates our brain reserves, helping to reduce the risk of developing dementia and depression. Remaining socially engaged and an active part of the community is important for people with dementia, so try and make time for friends and family. You can even combine your social activities with physical and mental exercise through sport or other hobbies.