AfCAS-From Care to Connection: Inclusive Aged Care for CALD Older Australians

For many seniors from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, aged care is about much more than physical support. It's about respect, dignity and the feeling of being at home. Language, culture and identity shape how we connect and how we experience care. When these needs are recognised and met, older people will feel valued, respected and treasured within their communities.

Who Is AfCAS?

The Association for Culturally Appropriate Services (AfCAS) is an Australian not-for-profit organisation that supports culturally and linguistically diverse older people and promotes culturally appropriate aged care. AfCAS advocates for aged care that is accessible and culturally appropriate, recognising the diverse cultural and language needs of older people.

AfCAS connects CALD seniors with the wider social community by recognising their languages and cultural background. It also promotes culturally appropriate aged-care practice by bringing community members and service providers together. Through community engagement, education, and advocacy, AfCAS helps build bridges between CALD communities and the aged-care sector.

Building Inclusive Communities

For many older migrants, language and cultural differences can increase social isolation and make it difficult to access suitable care. AfCAS helps to eliminate the gap between people and services, creating opportunities for participation and engagement.

One important initiative is the Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme, which benefits the community by helping older people feel understood and connected. Through community engagement, education, training, advocacy, and culturally appropriate support, AfCAS improves the experience of aged care for diverse communities.

The Power of Volunteers

Volunteers are at the heart of AfCAS’s mission. By offering time, companionship, and understanding, volunteers help reduce social isolation and build meaningful connections with older people. Whether it’s sharing a conversation in a familiar language or providing companionship and culturally familiar experiences, volunteers play a vital role in supporting the emotional well-being of CALD seniors.

Volunteering with AfCAS is a chance to make a real difference—one connection at a time.

How You Can Support AfCAS

There are many ways to get involved and support AfCAS's work in culturally appropriate aged care:

• Support AfCAS by volunteering your time and expertise to connect with senior community members

• Partner with AfCAS to promote inclusive practices in your organisation

• Donate to support AfCAS’s services, volunteer activities and advocacy work

• Spread the word about the importance of culturally appropriate aged care

  
  

Every action helps create a more welcoming and inclusive future for CALD seniors.

Get Involved

To learn more about current volunteering, partnership, donation, or support opportunities, visit https://www.afcas.net.

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