I’d always wanted to do some kind of volunteer work and then, by chance, I saw an ad on Facebook from Advocare’s Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme.
I must admit, it did take me a while but I did eventually get in touch and after speaking with Michelle (a Volunteer Coordinator) she asked me what sort of person I’d like to visit. I didn’t know what to say so I just said ‘someone nice’!
Anyway, they matched me up with *Luisa, an 86-year-old Macedonian lady. Luisa’s husband passed away years ago and her son and his family live in Sydney. Most of her friends are a bit incapacitated now or have also passed away so she was quite lonely I think.
I was nervous the first time I went to visit her, like what if we had nothing to talk about? But as it turned out, she was lovely, and we got on really well from the get-go.
It turns out, we both love old movies, especially those with Carey Grant or Gregory Peck! Luisa’s a good knitter. I can crochet and now we’re both making blankets beanies and cardies for emergency foster care parents for the kids they look after. We both like a cuppa and a bit of something sweet so quite often I’ll bring something with me. The other week, Luisa made some ANZAC cookies which are my favourite. It was lovely.
At the end of the day, I’m really surprised how much I’m enjoying the volunteering, although it doesn’t feel like that as Luisa’s become a friend, really. She’s very down to earth and we’ve had some funny chats … and whinges about our kids. They’re all grown up, but they still drive us bonkers sometimes.
I’d honestly recommend this kind of volunteering to anyone. I work full time but it’s something I can easily fit into my week and I really enjoy Luisa’s company. I know it’s meant to be all about giving back but to be honest, I think it’s mutual in our case.”
* Identity has been changed to protect privacy.
