Building services for seniors in the South

Since opening our doors there have been three key areas where we have been thriving, one of which being the offerings we have for the senior community. We have been heartened how we have been welcomed and embraced by our senior community as well as being thrilled to be a space for organizations to reach the Martinborough and rural South Wairarapa. 

These include the following services: 

Age Concern is at Heartlands Services on a Wednesday morning, and available to visit or connect with at a place suitable to you on Mondays and Wednesday afternoons.

Jacqui (Jacq’s) Wilton has come home to Martinborough and is working for Age Concern to support people  65 and over to live their best possible lives.  Alongside the weekly drop in, a monthly coffee morning event has been added to regular schedules. 

The group enjoys hearing from a speaker while having morning tea for a small $3 charge, and most recently The Safe Driving Course hosted by Age Concern was a huge success _ there was no more room in the house! The event was driven (pardon the pun!) by feedback received at a church group Heartlands and Age Concern had been to speak at. The group shared how anxious having to redo a test at age 75 makes people and so it was the perfect solution to address those worries. 

Louise our Digital Seniors volunteer notes: “It is great having a weekly Thursday 9:30 -11:00 a.m. Digital Seniors hub at Heartlands. It is a convenient place for people to come and learn how to do things on their phones, tablets and laptops. 

Hospice Wairarapa adds: “Having a space at Heartlands in Martinborough is a great way … to really connect with the wider community. As our offices are based in Masterton, it’s important for us to reach out across the whole of the Wairarapa, and this location helps us do that by offering a space in South Wairarapa. It allows us to collaborate with other local organizations, so we’re not working in isolation and can stay updated on what is happening in the community.” 

What’s coming up? 

The Hub is currently planning a medic alarm event to showcase what is out there so people can check out the options and ask questions. This is not only for the seniors but families who are looking to find out ways to retain peace of mind for their loved ones who are keen to live independently. 

We are also braining-storming ideas for Seniors Week in October which we are keen to be a celebration of living well.

The journey so far has highlighted the diverse needs we have in our community and we are looking forward to doing our best to provide the support , connection and advocacy that is needed. 

Feel free to pop in and have a chat and a cup of tea with us. 

Heartlands Services _  Monday to Friday 9:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Nga Mihi, The Heartlands Team.