AfCAS: A Little Connection Can Mean So Much.

CALD Older Australians enjoying at the AfCAS : Picture 1: Created By Canva AI

Growing older can sometimes feel very different when you are far from the place you once called home. For older Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, life in Australia may bring many good things, but it can also bring moments of loneliness, especially when family and friends are no longer close by.

This is where AfCAS can make a real difference.

AfCAS is not only about receiving care. It is about feeling understood, respected and connected. For an older person, being able to speak in a familiar language, talk about the food they grew up with, remember traditions from home or share stories from their younger years can bring a deep sense of comfort.

Sometimes, it may be as simple as having someone sit beside you and listen.

A friendly visit can make an ordinary day feel different. Having someone to talk to over a cup of tea, share a laugh with, discuss a favourite hobby or simply spend some quiet time together can help an older person feel less alone. For someone who may spend many days without much company, knowing that someone is coming to visit can give them something to look forward to.

CALD Older Australians mingling: Picture 2: Created by Canva AI

Through the Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme, AfCAS helps create these meaningful connections.

The focus is not on doing something complicated. It is about friendship, companionship and human connection. For an older person, a volunteer who speaks their language or understands their culture can make the experience feel more comfortable and familiar. They can talk freely, share memories and feel that their background is not something they have had to leave behind. Their language, traditions, stories and identity still matter.

Most importantly, the service can help an older person feel seen as a person, not simply as someone who needs care.

A visit might bring back a happy memory. A conversation might make someone smile. Sharing a story from childhood might create a moment of connection between two people who were strangers before. These small moments can carry a lot of meaning.

AfCAS reminds older people that they still belong. They are still valued, their stories are worth hearing, and their culture is worth celebrating.

Sometimes, we think making a difference means doing something big. But for an older person who feels lonely, a familiar conversation, a warm smile, a cup of tea or someone genuinely taking the time to listen can mean everything.

One visit. One conversation. One friendship. One connection at a time.

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

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Rajesh Budhathoki

Student ID: 10464181

Disclaimer: This content is for the sole purpose of teaching and learning at Edith Cowan University