WHAREKAKA EXPLORING IDEAS FOR THE FUTURE     

On 10 May a small group of suitably experienced and interested people met to brainstorm ideas for how Wharekaka could best develop its assets and services going forward to continue to serve its primary goal – to assist the older people of Martinborough and surrounding areas to live fulfilling lives.  

First the group considered the national and local policy directions for services for older people, and feedback received from the Martinborough community in response to the community meeting held by Wharekaka in March.  This all points to providing better and more support to enable people to live well, independently, in their own homes.   The group also looked at findings from recent research conducted in New Zealand on what older people want.  This shows older people are most concerned about having:

• Control over their daily lives
• Good personal care and appearance
• Good food and drink
• Clean and comfortable accommodation
• Feeling safe
• Being able to participate socially
• Having occupation and activity in their lives

During the workshop session which followed, many ideas were put forward, most of which fall into three broad themes.  Workshop outcomes are now being developed into a first-cut rough draft of a possible strategy.  This will then be reviewed and critiqued at a second workshop session, where we hope to agree the options for serious appraisal.  

Meantime, our meals on wheels service is growing, well supported by a wonderful band of volunteers, and day activity offerings are underway in the Wharekaka lounge.    We have seated Pilates for seniors on Wednesday mornings, and a sewing group meets fortnightly.   We hope soon to establish a regular lunch club in the Wharekaka dining room.   If you, or someone you know, is interested in joining any of these, please call Sally on 06-306-9701.