The Australian government funds the Aged Care Visitor Program to foster community connections and combat social isolation among older individuals. This valuable initiative arranges volunteer visits for seniors residing in residential aged care facilities or receiving Home Care packages, enriching their lives through companionship and social interaction.
What Happens During a Visit?
The core aim of the Aged Care Visitor Program is to forge meaningful relationships and alleviate loneliness by engaging in enjoyable social activities together. These visits are flexible and tailored to the interests and abilities of both the volunteer and the senior.
A typical visit might involve:
- Sharing a friendly chat over a cup of tea or coffee.
- Enjoying a leisurely walk to a nearby café or park.
- Reading aloud from a book or listening to audiobooks together.
- Participating in shared hobbies, games, or other recreational pursuits.
These simple yet significant activities can make a profound difference in the lives of older people, providing them with valuable social contact and a sense of belonging.
How to Become an Aged Care Volunteer Visitor
Volunteering for the Aged Care Visitor Program offers a deeply rewarding and potentially life-changing experience. By dedicating your time, you can bring joy and companionship to an older person in your community.
To become a volunteer visitor, you must be at least 18 years of age and successfully complete a National Police Check. This check ensures the safety and wellbeing of the seniors participating in the program. It’s important to note that police checks are valid for three years and require renewal for ongoing volunteers.
If you’re interested in making a positive impact, you can find comprehensive information on becoming a Volunteer with the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme.
Who Can Request a Visitor?
The Aged Care Visitor Program is accessible to older people who would benefit from social visits. Requests for a volunteer visitor can be initiated by various individuals and parties:
- Older individuals themselves: Seniors who feel isolated or would like more social interaction are encouraged to request a visitor directly.
- Family members or friends: If you know an older person who could benefit from companionship, you can request a visitor on their behalf.
- Health professionals: Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers can identify suitable candidates and make referrals to the program.
- Aged Care Provider staff members: Staff within residential aged care facilities or home care services can also request visitors for residents or clients.
To learn more about the process, you can find detailed instructions on how to request a volunteer visitor.
Finding More Information about the Aged Care Visitor Program
For those seeking further details about the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, several resources are available.
In Victoria, you can reach out to Esis from Ageing with Grace. This organization serves as the contact point for the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme and can connect you with your local program coordinator.
To explore comprehensive information directly from the Australian Government, please visit the official website for the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme. This resource provides extensive details about the program’s objectives, guidelines, and impact on the community.
