Auckland Council and the Age-Friendly Auckland Implementation Rōpū have secured funding to trial three dementia-friendly film screenings in the new year.
Councillor Alf Filipaina, liaison officer for Auckland Council’s Senior Advisory Panel says the silver screen will be used to help cinema-goers recall fond memories of going to the movies, build social connections and enjoy themselves in a welcoming environment.
“Cinema has been found to be a fun way to invoke nostalgia, and help reduce isolation and loneliness, which disproportionately impacts older people and those living with dementia.
“The funding will be used to ensure the venue is welcoming and accessible. By making the environment inclusive, we can remove some of the barriers that may prevent those living with dementia from doing what they enjoy.
“Attendees can go along with their friends, whānau or carers. They will be greeted by clear signs, soft lighting and will be welcome to chat during the film if they want to. If they would prefer a quieter space, they will have the option of watching the movie in a quiet room. There will also be an intermission and, of course, movie snacks.
“Almost 70,000 Kiwis live with dementia today, and four out of five New Zealanders know or have known someone living with dementia. We want people to take away good feelings from a positive experience. Importantly, this project is one way we can help those living with dementia to continue to do the things they want to do,” says Cr Filipaina.
Te Tari Kaumātua/The Office for Seniors has awarded $15,000 to Auckland’s Age-Friendly Auckland Implementation Rōpū to deliver the pilot.
Joanna Maskell, Principal Policy Advisor at Auckland Council says the pilot is part of Auckland Council’s work as a World Health Organisation-recognised Age Friendly City, to help make Tāmaki Makaurau a great place to grow old.
“Auckland’s older population is growing faster than any other age group and is increasingly diverse with diverse needs.
“This pilot is a chance to keep enjoyable, cultural activities ‘on-limits’ for those living with dementia.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to trial this programme in Auckland and apply what we learn to future events as well as share with others. We will be working with Dementia NZ and those with lived experiences of dementia to ensure it is a fantastic experience for all those who attend,” she says.
The screenings are due to take place in mid-2025. Participating cinemas will be selected once advice from the lived-experience advisory group has been received.
The pilot is one of many programmes and activities in the council’s Tāmaki Makaurau Tauawhi Kaumātua/Age Friendly Action Plan. You can read more about how Auckland Council is supporting older residents on OurAuckland.
