Families, carers and community members were given a powerful insight into the challenges faced by people living with dementia during an awareness event at Radius Althorp in Pyes Pā.

The Dementia Awareness Morning Tea, held on September 22, featured a sensory exercise designed to highlight some of the difficulties people with dementia may experience in everyday life.

Participants wore vision-impairing goggles, oven mitts and headphones filled with distracting sounds such as sirens, car horns and overlapping voices before attempting simple tasks, including putting on a jacket, a statement to SunLive said.

Many described feeling helpless, agitated and overwhelmed by the experience.

Radius Althorp activities co-ordinator Becky King shared her family’s personal journey with dementia, explaining that both of her parents had been residents at the care home.

“When dementia first touched our lives, we had no idea what it truly meant,” King said.

“It was confusing, frightening and overwhelming. We didn’t understand the changes, the moments lost or the challenges we faced ahead.”

She and her sister navigated the experience together, supporting one another through an often uncertain journey.

The Dementia Awareness Morning Tea was held earlier this week.

The morning brought together staff, families and community members to learn more about the condition and discuss its impact on individuals and those closest to them.

Radius Althorp clinical nurse manager Veah Abalajon said the event was about recognising the person behind the diagnosis.

“Today is not only about the difficulties.

“Today is about honouring the journey, honouring the life that comes before dementia and honouring the person behind the diagnosis.

“Dementia may change memory, language, behaviour and independence, but it does not change a lifetime of experiences, achievements, relationships and love.”

Representatives from Dementia Tauranga also attended, with Faye Philp speaking about common misconceptions surrounding dementia and the importance of having open conversations to help reduce stigma and build understanding.

Guests took part in a dementia awareness quiz and learned about the Radius Althorp Sparkles Group, a support network for families and friends of residents living with dementia.

The group helps people to connect with others facing similar experiences, share advice and find support.

Radius Althorp in Pyes Pā held a Dementia Awareness Morning Tea this week, where people got to experience some of the things people who suffer from dementia go through.

Organisers said the event aimed to encourage greater understanding of dementia while giving attendees the chance to ask questions, access information and contribute to Dementia New Zealand through donations.

For many, the morning offered a valuable reminder that while dementia can alter the way a person experiences the world, compassion and connection remain essential for those living with the condition and the families supporting them.