How does a day programme work?

Day programmes offer older people an opportunity to connect with a like-minded community, socialise in a stimulating environment and participate in a range of meaningful activities. As well as giving older people a fun day out, day programmes also provide carers and family with time out to take a break.

Day programmes are often held at small home-like community facilities or sometimes at a dedicated space in a residential care facility (such as a rest home). In some areas of New Zealand, very small groups may gather together in a host’s private home to take part in a day programme; Enliven HomeShare, for example, provides this option.

There are a number of day programmes throughout New Zealand that are contracted to provide the service; a contracted day programme receives funding from Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, which means attendance is subsidised. There are day programmes throughout the country that cater to specific needs, such as dementia support, and cultural and ethnic needs (such as kaumātua services). For non-contracted social and recreational day programmes, a small cost may apply.

People often attend a day programme several times a week. Various activities are offered, and morning and afternoon teas, as well as a midday meal, are normally provided. Transport may also be offered, for which there is usually a cost. To maintain a sense of belonging and connectedness, group numbers are often limited.

A subsidy may be available if you have been assessed by your local older person’s service/NASC as being eligible (note: this may not cover the cost of transport).

Find: day & social programmes in your area

You can also find a list of social, kaumātua and day programmes in your region in our Where from here He ara Whakamua handbook – download a free pdf here.