Dear Diary: The Visits I Never Want to Forget

3 August

This morning, Maria came to visit. She brought no big gifts, only her warm smile and a little time to spare. We sat by the window with cups of jasmine tea, and I told her about the garden I had back home.

The smell of the tea reminded me of Sunday mornings with my family. For a moment, Perth felt very far away, and home felt very close. Some of the visits I never want to forget are the simplest ones.

Before she left, Maria asked when she could come again. I smiled. I already knew I would be waiting.

17 August

Today, we listened to an old song from my country. I had not heard it in years. When the first few notes played, I remembered dancing to the same song at family celebrations when I was younger. I laughed because I suddenly remembered the way my sister used to sing it — always slightly off-key.

Maria laughed with me. She did not need to understand every word. She simply enjoyed the memory with me.

31 August

Today we talked about words. I taught my visitor how to say "thank you" in my first language. She repeated it carefully, and we both laughed when she got the pronunciation wrong.

It was such a small thing, but it made me happy to hear my language spoken again. Sometimes, I think we forget how much a familiar word, a familiar song, or a familiar story can mean when you are far from where you began.

12 September

Another visit, another cup of tea. Today, we did not talk very much. We simply sat together and watched the rain outside. I used to think a good visit had to be filled with conversation. Now I know that sometimes companionship is simply knowing someone is there.

When Maria left, she said, "See you next time." I hope so.

More Than a Visit

If you're reading these entries later and you don't remember writing them, that's okay. Some memories soften with time. What matters is that, in these moments, someone was there to listen.

That's the heart of AfCAS's Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme — an Australian Government-funded program connecting isolated seniors, particularly from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, with volunteers for friendship and company. Around 1 in 5 (19%) older Australians experience social isolation (Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, 2021).

A cup of tea. An old song. A word from home. Sometimes, connection begins with something this simple. 🍵🎶📒

Want to help create more moments like these? Visit afcas.net to volunteer or learn more. 💛

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