Be Informed
Free resources, local support, and health education for our community
Free resources, local support, and health education for our community
Receiving a bone density (DXA) scan result can feel overwhelming. Whether your scores were a surprise or expected, the most important thing to know is that bone health is dynamic. There are many ways to protect your strength and keep doing the things you love.
A DXA scan is a snapshot of your bone strength. Understanding your score allows you to make informed decisions with your medical team.
T-Score -1.0 to -2.5 (Osteopenia): Think of this as a proactive warning. It’s the perfect time to look at nutrition and movement to prevent further thinning.
T-Score -2.5 or lower (Osteoporosis): This means your bones need extra care and specific medical strategies to stay strong.
What you can do now:
Talk to your GP: They are your first port of call to discuss your results.
Check your levels: Ask about your Vitamin D and Calcium intake.
Specialist Insight: If you have complex questions about medications or underlying causes, an Endocrinologist can provide specialized clarity. You are welcome to book a consult with me, or take your results to your GP to discuss your next steps.
My goal is to help you take those results and turn them into a lifestyle that is both safe and deeply meaningful.
This is fantastic knowledge to have! Think of it as a golden opportunity. You have caught this at a stage where you can make a real difference. Even small habits—like standing up and sitting down from your chair five extra times whenever you sit down—help build the essential strength and "muscle armour" that protects your skeleton.
It is important to focus on preventing falls by removing trip hazards, ensuring good lighting, and managing what I call "the rush"—that split-second urge to move before we are ready. Taking a moment to stop and think before we hop out of a chair or onto a bike is a huge factor in staying safe.
Also, it is equally important that these steps don’t take away your confidence. I understand that a new diagnosis can feel like a fine line to walk, and I truly believe that where there is a will, there is a way. Environments and tasks can be adjusted so you can keep doing what you love safely. Safety and vitality can exist together.
Please do book a session with me if you feel you are losing confidence or pulling back from life. Often, a little help with the acceptance of a new diagnosis can make you feel a bit lighter. From there, we focus on how to build a life that is sustainable and vibrant with the bone health we have.
Everyone deserves access to care, and many excellent programs in Rotorua are free or even subsidised by ACC.
Live Stronger for Longer: This is an ACC-supported initiative. These classes are specifically designed for over-65s to improve strength and stability, often at a very low cost.
Find a Class: Visit www.livestronger.org.nz and search "Rotorua."
Sport Bay of Plenty: Our local office is a great hub for info on Tai Chi and "Steady as You Go" groups. Call them on 07 348 4125.
Nymbl App: A free, fun balance training app funded by ACC for all New Zealanders. It’s a great way to train your balance in just 10 minutes a day at home.
Osteoporosis NZ: Provides wonderful free pamphlets and bone-friendly lifestyle tips at www.osteoporosis.org.nz.
The best thing you can do for your bones today is to stay informed and stay moving.
We believe in being open about all your options because your health comes first. If you ever feel stuck or need a more personalized plan, Dr. Davide and Jenna are available as a resource for our community.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not replace individual medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider regarding your specific results.
While Jenna is currently private-pay only and not (yet) an ACC-registered provider, she believe everyone deserves accessible support. Depending on your age, background, or circumstances, you may be eligible for fully funded (free) counselling through the following services:
Gumboot Friday: Provides free counselling sessions for anyone aged 25 and under. You can browse their database of registered counsellors and book directly through their platform.
Youthline: Offers free face-to-face counselling in some regions, alongside their 24/7 text and phone support.
Brief Intervention Services: Many GPs can refer you for 4–6 free sessions with a Health Improvement Practitioner (HIP) or a counsellor via their Primary Health Organisation (PHO). This is often the fastest way to access free support for mild-to-moderate distress.
Work and Income (WINZ): If you are on a low income or receive a benefit, you may be eligible for the Disability Allowance, which can cover up to $70.04 per week toward counselling sessions with a registered provider.
ACC Sensitive Claims: If you have experienced sexual abuse or assault, ACC funds long-term, specialized therapy. You must see an ACC-registered provider for this (which I am not), but you can find a list of available therapists at FindSupport.co.nz.
EAP (Employee Assistance Programme): Check if your employer (or a family member’s employer) provides EAP. This typically offers 3–6 free sessions for any life or work-related issue.
Taiohi Tūrama (Youth Health): Free mental health support for young people aged 12–24. Located on Pererika Street.
Atawhai Abuse Services: Specialized, free support and counselling for those impacted by sexual harm.
Korowai Aroha Health Centre: Kaupapa Māori health and wellbeing services for whānau.
Family Focus Rotorua: Support and counselling for family violence and general whānau wellbeing.
If you need to talk to someone right now, these services are always free:
Free call or text 1737 to speak with a trained counsellor.
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text ‘HELP’ to 4357.
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202.