Learning how to better care for elderly patients or family members will be the focus of a training workshop in Ngatangiia tomorrow.

The training workshop is a joint initiative between Te Vaerua trainers and professionals and Mana Tiaki Ngatangiia community organisation.

Mana Tiaki secretary Nana Short said she was inspired to organise a collaborative workshop with Te Vaerua after attending a similar programme in Avarua.

“I thought it would be very useful for training workshop to happen in our Ngatangiia community, but those who live in Takitumu who feel they would benefit from this type of training are encouraged to attend.”

She said the workshop will be interactive and there will be one on one training “so only 25 places are available on a first to register first to have a place confirmed”.

Short added it will be an opportunity for caregivers to network and share their experiences with others in the community.

“If they wish, each will be able to share what works for them best in terms of delivering care for their elderly or disabled clients or family members, learn from each other and of course learn great skills and obtain valuable information from the professionals at Te Vaerua.”

Te Vaerua occupational therapist Kelly Pick and Short were on the local radio last Thursday speaking about the training workshop and the benefits it will give those who care for elderly family members or have clients with disabilities.

Mana Tiaki Ngatangiia are grateful for the willingness of Te Vaerua to collaborate on the training initiative and do this in their own time.

The training will be held at the Ngatangiia Sunday School Hall between 4.30pm and 6.30pm.

The programme will include:

Programme 1. Presentation by Pare

- Safe Transfer & Manual Handling of patient/client or elderly

- Exercises for prevention of fall

- Managing backs from chronic pain & sciatica.

Programme 2. Presentation by Kelly Pick

- Use of assisted equipment or mobility

e.g. wheelchairs, kermodes & walkers.

Programme 3. Presentation by Maine Beniamina

- Nursing care relating to prevention of bed sores.

Those wanting to register for the workshop are asked to contact Nana Short on 71753 as soon as possible.