Many older individuals receiving aged care services, whether at home or in residential aged care homes, struggle with loneliness and isolation. There are currently over 20 Greek-speaking seniors waiting desperately for a friendly visitor through the Multicultural Communities Council of SA's (MCCSA) Aged Care Visitor Volunteer Scheme. Sadly, some older people have died while on the waitlist before getting to meet a visitor, as there are not enough Greek-speaking volunteers.

Research shows that being lonely has serious negative effects on health. Social isolation and loneliness put an individual at similar risk of death as smoking 15 cigarettes per day, and at higher risk than those who are physically inactive or obese. For aged care recipients, having a friendly visitor could be a lifeline - bringing joy, comfort and human connection when it's needed most.

As a volunteer visitor, you can provide that vital lifeline of companionship. Just having someone to talk to who understands Greek language and culture can spark wonderful memories and make them feel alive again. Your visits give more than just company - you honour their heritage and identity.

There are great benefits for volunteers too! MCCSA offers training, social events and ways to connect with others. Volunteering brings a sense of purpose and links you to your cultural roots. It's a chance to give back to elders who paved the way for the Greek-Australian community.

Please don't let our esteemed Greek seniors spend their final years alone and forgotten. Your simple act of kindness – spending as little as one hour every two weeks as a friendly visitor - could truly be their lifeline. Many are waiting across metropolitan Adelaide.

Join MCCSA's Aged Care Visitor Volunteer Scheme program today and provide the lifeline of friendship.

For more information on how to become a volunteer, visit https://mccsa.org.au/project/acvvs/ or contact Maggie Asaad on (08) 8213 4604 or email maggie.asaad@mccsa.org.au.

The Aged Care Visitor Volunteer Scheme – ACVVS – is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.