As New Zealand prepares to celebrate Grandparents Week from October 27 to November 1, it is an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary contribution grandparents make to our families, whānau and communities.
For many families, however, the role of a grandparent also brings its own challenges. As people age, they may need increasing support to remain independent, connected and well. That's where families, communities and organisations such as Enliven can make a real difference.
At Enliven, we see every day how important it is that older people are supported to continue living fulfilling lives in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.
One person who understands the importance of supporting grandparents is Tia Pele, an Enliven resource coordinator who also helps care for her 99-year-old grandmother, Mele-Latai Havea.
Although caring for her grandmother is not part of her professional role, it has been a lifelong commitment.
"I've been doing it for the majority of my life when it comes to caring for my grandma," she says, describing it simply as something she does out of love.
For Tia and her family, caring for her grandma who lives with them, is deeply connected to their culture and values.
"It's part of our Tongan culture to look after our older people," she explains. "When they do get old it's something that we do out of love for them."
Like many family carers across New Zealand, Tia helps fill the gaps around formal support services. The family receives assistance from Enliven support workers, while Tia steps in after hours and at other times when extra support is needed.
She says one of the most important things they can do is help her grandmother remain independent while still knowing support is nearby.
"We try to keep her as independent as possible," she says. "Just showing her that there's still people there and she knows that we're here as well."
That philosophy sits at the heart of Enliven's Home-Based Support Services. By helping with everyday tasks and providing practical assistance, support workers enable older people to continue living safely and confidently in their own homes while giving family members reassurance that their loved one is receiving quality care.
As New Zealand's population ages, the role of community-based services becomes increasingly important. Many older people wish to stay in familiar surroundings and remain connected to their communities. They may not need residential care but can benefit significantly from practical support, social interaction and opportunities to remain active.
Grandparents Week is not only about celebrating older people. It is also about asking how we can better support them.
Families can also look at whether additional support services might help older relatives maintain their independence. Sometimes a few hours of home-based support, participation in a day programme, or connection to community services can improve quality of life for both grandparents and their whānau.
As Tia's story reminds us, caring for older generations is ultimately about connection, respect and love. When we support our grandparents to live well, remain connected and retain their independence, we honour not only what they have done for us, but who they are today. And that is something worth celebrating every week of the year.