It’s National Volunteer Week, a time to express dedication to the 6 million Australians who volunteer their time across various sectors.

Residential, home care, and disability services provider VMCH in Melbourne is paying tribute to one of its longest-serving volunteers, Carol Pickering. Ms Pickering began volunteering at VMCH in 1979 when she was 35—she is now 80 years old. Formerly known as Villa Maria Society for the Blind, Ms Pickering fondly recalls volunteering at VMCH.

“There was one woman, Doris, who was blind and deaf… I learnt how to do the letters of the alphabet on her hands so she could understand me. She was so wonderful. She was almost a second grandmother at the time,” says Ms Pickering.

Carol Pickering is just one of thousands of Australians who volunteer their time to work in the aged care sector, and they are crucial for several reasons.

Studies show that volunteers in the aged care sector enhance people’s quality of life. They engage residents in various activities, such as games, crafts, music, or simply chatting. These activities contribute to a sense of purpose, fulfilment, and enjoyment for the residents.

An Australian volunteer, Jim, is part of the Share a Cuppa program, an initiative of the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. The program began after COVID-19, when it became apparent there was a need to increase social connections within communities, particularly with older people. Volunteers visit an older person’s home and converse with them over tea.

“You don’t get to your senior years without a few stories to tell. Seeing the expressions on their faces as they recollect their memories is quite fascinating. I feel privileged to hear them share their vulnerabilities and stories with me, which encourages me to share mine,” says Jim.

Besides providing companionship and social connection for older people, aged care volunteers also help support staff and services. Aged care facilities often operate with limited resources and staff. Volunteers complement the work of paid staff by assisting with non-medical tasks, such as serving meals, facilitating recreational activities, or providing transportation. This support enables staff to focus on delivering essential care services.

Aged care volunteer, Robyn has been volunteering for four years at Kalyra Woodcroft, a Residential Aged Care facility in South Australia. She helps older people feel pampered while supporting aged care staff.

“I wanted to give my services to the elderly in any way I can to improve their quality of life. In my role I give manicures, apply nail polish, offer hand massages and support in group activities. Being in my age group, it was a challenge finding what fitted me in my retirement. Assisting residents to feel pampered and loved has made my volunteering experience a pleasure.

“Coming into the aged are home, I am welcomed and appreciated by staff and residents. I would recommend anyone to give their time and knowledge to aged care because you never know where it could be utilised,” says Robyn.
Ms Pickering, who is not planning on giving up the volunteer gig anytime soon, encourages others to volunteer in the aged care sector.

“I’ve gotten so much happiness from volunteering. It’s been a great experience”.