About Lew
Lew has been volunteering as an Aged Care Volunteer Visitor with Southern Volunteering SA Inc for three years. His role involves one-on-one visits with socially isolated older people living in aged care homes, and he has also visited people living in their own homes.
Lew shares how the privilege of meeting and getting to know people has shaped his outlook. “I find the privilege of meeting and getting to know people a personally enriching experience, and I continue to learn much about life in all its richness and variety. It also teaches you to respect greatly the uniqueness and value of each person and the rich diversity of personalities and appearances,” he says.
Q&A Interview:
Disclaimer: The views expressed are the opinions and thoughts of our interviewees, reflecting on their own experiences and views.
Sometimes I bring chocolate, music, and have entertained them with “magic tricks” which I used to use at school assemblies, but after initial introductions it’s conversation to see how they are going and what’s happening for them and listen and reciprocate about our life stories.
Sometimes just being present is of benefit.
Following retirement as a pastor I had desire to give back into the community for all the good things I’d enjoyed in life. I love people, enjoy relating to them, getting to know them, supporting them, and hearing their life stories.
I find the privilege of meeting and getting to know people a personally enriching experience, and I continue to learn much about life in all its richness and variety. It also teaches you to respect greatly the uniqueness and value of each person and the rich diversity of personalities and appearances.
It’s hard to say what people enjoy most about my visits except that they do welcome them and it’s clear that social isolation has been an issue for them.
I think each time we visit we contribute something to help build social cohesion and connectedness between people. Relationships are central to the quality of life for all of us and by design we’re meant to do life together and help one another in our journey through the seasons of life. In a small way, each time we visit I think we help make our community and society a kinder and more caring place. I think very act of visiting someone says to them “you matter and have value”, which in a way is loving them. I reckon the Beatles had it right when they wrote that song “All You Need Is Love” 😊
I am supported through the ACVVS with Southern Volunteering. I am always looking to learn and add to my existing knowledge and experience. The PalliLEARN modules have been helpful.
I think it’s important that we remain open to following up people and as they transition into a palliative care/high care/dementia care. Their worth and value as people, and need for company is often greater than ever at this stage of their life.
I think by visiting we help contribute to help maximise their well-being/health in whatever circumstances they may be.
Definitely recommend it to others who have the time and heart to help people who may be lonely and in need of encouragement. Visiting other people is a mutually enriching experience. Friendships are formed and we all need friends regardless of our age or health.
