Volunteer visitor stories – Matilda and Annie

Annie: [Speaking Cantonese] Hello

Matilda: [Speaking Cantonese] Hello, how are you?

Annie: [Speaking Cantonese] I haven’t seen you in two weeks!

[Speaking English] Snow peas, eh?

Matilda: [Speaking Cantonese] They’re so pretty!

Narrator: Matilda and Annie are members of Sydney's Cantonese community. They met two years ago through the Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme and have been close friends ever since.

Annie: How do you remember about our first visit?

Matilda: We were just having a casual conversation about our background and so on. You were the first one who said, “Oh, I used to live in Canada." And then I couldn't believe it. I said, "Oh, so did I. I used to live in Canada as well." Although it was the first meeting, I felt as though I've known you for a long, long, long time.

Matilda: This is where I used to live, Edmonton. So, this is where your university.

Annie: Yeah.

Matilda: in Nova Scotia.

Annie: I study BA Bachelor of Education at St. Francis Xavier.

Matilda: Each school has got its special graduation ring. So, this is how I recognise it, because St. Francis Xavier is a very renowned university in Canada.

This is a huge achievement. You should be proud of yourself.

Annie: I thought nobody knows.

Matilda: Yeah, yeah.

Annie: Actually, you know.

Narrator: When residents enter aged care their rich histories too often get forgotten. By recognising and celebrating Annie's achievements, Matilda helped her recover from a bout of depression.

Matilda: Every time I come, you are this much better. You're getting healthier, you're getting happier. You actually, you know, have the energy to do the things that you love to do.

Annie: I feel happier and happier.

Matilda: When my mother was living in a nursing home in Canada, she hardly had anybody visiting her except the staff in the facility. They show her kindness. So, after she passed on, I thought well, I can actually do the same thing. Not only can you give back to the community you will meet wonderful people.

Annie: Like me.

Matilda: Yeah, like you.

Narrator: We're looking for aged care volunteer visitors in your area. Go online and sign up today.