Researchers at AUT and the University of Auckland have found mate wareware can be slowed in Maori dementia patients by incorporating a Maori worldview into treatment.
Research director Makarena Dudley says they have adapted a British programme of cognitive stimulation therapy a Maori context.
The Haumanu Whakaohooho Whakāro programme helps slow down mild to moderate dementia, or loss of memory.
“It’s really a programme that challenges and stimulates our kaumatua to think beyond what they might already be doing, so they are extending their cognitive abilities,”Dr Dudley says.
By 2018 it’s projected there will be about 4500 Maori with dementia, double the figure of a decade ago, which will put a significant burden on whanau.
The manual for Haumanu Whakaohooho Whakāro – Māori was launched today at Te Mahurehure Marae in Tamaki Makaurau.
