Cherishing all kaumatua is an important part of my work
Supporting older people to maintain their independence makes me proud
Maree and Josie's stories
Maree and Josie are both active in their community and age does not hold them back. “We support older people where we can and ensure there’s always someone to talk to, no matter what the circumstances” says Maree.
Maree and Josie, who both receive New Zealand Superannuation, are involved at the Frankton/Dinsdale Rauawaawa Charitable Trust in Hamilton, an organisation that prides itself on providing a wrap-around service which keeps kaumatua warm and safe. Maree and Josie both say they have seen the benefits of wrap-around services and have experienced first hand the difference and impact that agencies and community groups working together can have.
Maree, a nurse many years ago, still has a passion for the well-being of people, and looks after the feet and hands of her kaumatua, especially in the colder months. When people are too frail to visit the Trust, Maree makes home visits to support them. She proudly says that the highlight for many older women is when she does their makeup, she says “It makes them feel loved again!”
For Josie, it’s all about people and the community, and she is always involved in organising and supporting activities. She is also involved in Tai Chi, an ancient exercise practiced by warriors and sentries in China, to help older people maintain a relaxed state of readiness. Maree is focused on working alongside kaumaua to support older people to maintain their independence and give them an opportunity to be part of the community.
Success for Maree and Josie is about having a meaningful purpose in life.