Promoting Abilities
11
Whangarei 20 plus support group
A
group for people of all ages with any form of arthritis. That’s the purpose of this support group for people with arthritis who live in Whangarei. The name says it all and reflects that arthritis affects all ages. It is not a condition that only affects the elderly. It can affect those in their 20s as much as those in their 70s. In fact, in New Zealand, half of the people who have arthritis are of working age. Children and teenagers can also have arthritis. Arthritis is a major health issue and a leading cause of disability that costs the country $12 billion every year (figure from 2018). It’s not “just a bit of arthritis” as we hear all too often – it is a serious and painful condition that can be debilitating and cause significant disability for those suffering from it. There are more than 140 different forms of arthritis; the most common in New Zealand are osteoarthritis, gout arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. One of the best ways to support people with arthritis is to connect them with others who are experiencing the same pressures and challenges, and that is why the 20plus group in Whangarei is such a success. The group’s focus is to provide support and share experiences not just the problems but also the successes and achievements of members. This sharing can cover a range of issues and challenges, and members benefit significantly from the experience of others and the
information the group can provide. Discussion is stimulating and can be controversial as members share their coping mechanisms and the barriers they are working to demolish. Discussions can range from accessing medicinal cannabis, healthcare services in Whangarei, home support services to useful equipment that helps make life a little easier for people with arthritis. Another important part of the group is sharing the circumstances and pressures people feel in managing everyday life and
family. Members find this sharing such a beneficial feature of the group- members have a wide range of experience and expertise and know the local community very well. Everybody is welcome to come along to the group, which meets on the first Saturday of the month at the Nazarene Church on the corner of Nixon and Princes Streets. You can be assured of a warm welcome and an excellent opportunity to meet others with arthritis and learn from them.
Safeguarding your Future
Enduring Powers of Attorney (“EPAs”) allow you to decide who looks after your property and welfare if you lose the ability to do it yourself. Our firm offers Will and EPA package deals at competitive prices. Contact our wills and EPA specialist Cass Hayward today for a friendly chat.
Contact us for further details 7 Maunu Road, Whangarei
P (09) 437 3070 | F (09) 437 2070
Email: info@malawyers.co.nz | www.malawyers.co.nz
