New chapter for Rotorua's Dementia Lakes with new location

(From left) Lesley Morrison, Lynne Luke and Annette Hall of Dementia Lakes outside the new location. Photo / Shauni James

A new chapter and sense of homeliness has begun for Dementia Lakes as they settle into their new location, following a busy Awareness Week.

The new building is located at 1460A Hinemoa St.

Dementia Lakes manager Lynne Luke says this is the new location for them and Parkinsons Central Plateau.

She says they decided to make the move to the new building because it has a ramp, access is a lot better, there is plenty of parking, it is in a house setting which people with dementia would identify with, and has a homely atmosphere.

"The access to and era of the house is more appropriate and welcoming for people with dementia, rather than an office setting.

"It feels like it's got a bit more soul to it."

She says it is still a work in progress and once they have a few more adornments added it will be even more homely.

An open day is going to be held on Thursday October 18 from 1pm to 4pm, so members of the community can gather for a cup of tea, have a look at the building, have a kōrero and meet the staff.

Lynne says the building was blessed by Henare Mohi before they moved in.

The move has followed a busy September, which is Dementia Awareness Month.

She says the Purple Bike Ride had about 30 riders dress up in wonderful purple outfits and painted faces.

"We were well supported by the general public at the Rotorua Night Market and the poem reading went superbly."

Dementia Lakes
- The Dementia Lakes support co-ordinators are Lynne Luke and Annette Hall. Lesley Morrison has joined the team as kaiāwhina. Margaret and Christine are administration staff.
- Office hours are 9am to 4pm.
- To contact Dementia Lakes call (07) 349 0053.