I think it was the first time we met, we just clicked.
It was very comfortable from the start, new in the country and I had never spoken to a French person in my life and I thought this is an opportunity to get to know about those people who eat snails.
And when Anne moved to Australia, she began volunteering to help foster community connections.
This journey LED her to Marlene, who she visits each week and has built a close friendship with.
These leaves are turning green.
It's just a lovely scene to see, isn't it?
I'm really lucky to have you in my life.
You say I'm helping you, but you're also helping me.
It's really nice.
It's really nice to know there is somebody in a country where I don't come
from.
It's very important to have your friendship.
Thank you for staying there.
Oh, that's OK.
So where did you meet?
How do you mean?
You got to, you got to say I'm not saying it.
Marlene moved to residential aged care to stay close with her husband Rodney after he suffered a stroke.
Deciding between independence or meaningful relationships is a dilemma many older people face.
I had to move out of my environment when I wasn't ready, so it was a really painful time for me.
But now I can see if I didn't come, I wouldn't have met you or all the other lovely people.
You know what, when Nova brought you to me, I thought,
what the do I hit the jackpot?
And I was so happy thinking that you are going to be the person I'm going to talk to.
And you know what?
That was the day my life changed.
The Laura kids here are always in pairs.
They're very loud.
Your birds in Australia?
So what would you say to someone who's thinking about getting a volunteer visitor?
The answer is a definite yes.
Anybody in residential care feeling lonely, depressed,
all they have to do is say to staff, look, I need a social companion.
And your life changes like day and night.
What do you think makes a meaningful life?
Just share with other people.
And if you have something to give, just give.
It makes you happy.
But that's all you are.
You know what?
From Friday, I start getting excited in anticipation for Monday because I know that end is going to come.
Hello, Marlin.
I'm saying Oh yes, yes she is.
I feel grateful for for having you in my life.
We're looking for aged care volunteer visitors in your area.
Go online & up today.