By Abbey Cannan
With Arcare Noosa now fully operational after opening its doors last month, the Lifestyle team is calling on local community members to volunteer their time to support seniors living in aged care.
Arcare Volunteer Coordinator, Margaret (Marg) Furlong said she’s seen a decline in volunteer numbers across the board since COVID-19 and is hopeful more Noosaville locals will register their interest and give a little where they can.
“It’s so important for people in aged care to know that they’re remembered by their community,“ she said.
“It’s also really important for their health and wellbeing to have people come and see them and let them know that they matter.
“At the new Noosa residence that just opened last month, we’ve had eight join which is great, but we’d like to times that by six.
“We’d really like to see a boost in those numbers now that Covid is hopefully settling down.“
Arcare aged care has an established national volunteer program dedicated to supporting its residents through a series of initiatives – morning teas, skype calls, physical visits, pen pal programs, music therapy, and much more.
The program ensures residents stay socially connected – giving seniors the chance to meet new and interesting people, and try new things.
Nothing is too small or big an act from the volunteers – whether that just be enjoying simple activities such as playing a game of chess or to listening to music, through to offering pet therapy services.
Five volunteers were welcomed on Wednesday 10 February with a special morning tea.
One of the first volunteers to join the program is Senka Thwaites. Her dad is living at Arcare Noosa and she thought it would be a great way to spend time with him and the other residents.
New volunteer, Debra Kalanj was recently asked why she joined the program, to which she replied, “It warms the soul and is a great way to give back to the community.”
When asked what they are looking for in volunteers, Marg said, “Ultimately, we’re looking for people who have a heart for the elderly.“
“They may be interested in 1:1 visits with residents, enjoying a chat over a cuppa in the caf¨¦ or in the courtyard, or if preferred, there’s opportunities to assist the lifestyle team with running small group activities, or going on bus outings.”
“We hope to see more new faces join our program soon.“
Those thinking of volunteering at Arcare Noosa can enquire at: loom.ly/3-voOsQ
