Ann’s Story
Ann was only in her mid-fifties when she was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimers. Unfortunately, she had to resign from her much loved teaching career. Ann stayed active in the community and kept busy with voluntary work but when that got too much she had to give that up too. It was a very stressful time for Ann and her husband Steve. Steve took early retirement to care for Ann full-time and this took a toll on his own mental health and he started to feel depressed.
Eventually, Ann’s GP referred her to Alzheimer’s Northland and after receiving ongoing support from their local Community Advisor, life is a whole lot brighter for the couple. Ann now receives Home Help twice a week and has become great friends with Jo who supports Ann with the housework and meal preparation. Ann is a real foodie so it’s great that she can keep creating in the kitchen. This also allows Steve time to catch up with his mates and do some much-loved fishing. Steve attends the local Carer Monthly Support Group where he gets awhi and encouragement from the local Community Advisor and other family members who are caring for their loved one with Alzheimers at home. Ann and Steve are so thankful that they now have support around them and they no longer feel alone in their journey.