Unlikely friendship tackles loneliness among Australia's elderly

Hana Byambadash and Wanda Janus share a bond that transcends age, meeting seven years ago through a program designed to combat loneliness among Australia's elderly. Their friendship, filled with laughter, singing, and even dancing in local parks, highlights the profound impact of human connection.

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Wanda was in Poland, I was in Mongolia, it was something we had similar

Wanda, 87, who resides in an aged care home and lives with dementia, finds her mood transformed by Hana's visits. "She becomes a different person" when they dance, Hana observes, underscoring the power of shared activities and companionship. Their connection, sparked by a mutual love for music and Polish films, demonstrates how simple interactions can significantly improve the quality of life for those experiencing social isolation.

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People like to be with me because I'm funny and I'm joking with them, I have a good time and then they come again

The program facilitating their friendship is offered by Umbrella Multicultural Community Care in Perth. Borhan Milani, the organization's CEO, describes social isolation as a "significant and under-recognised issue" affecting one in six Australians, particularly those with cognitive impairments. He emphasizes that just an hour or two of shared activities, like playing cards or having tea, can give elderly individuals "hope" and make them "look forward to starting their day."

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What we've realised is that one or two hours … playing a card game or having a cup of tea or a coffee or going for a walk, that alone has completely changed their life

However, the growing demand for such programs is outpacing the availability of volunteers. Milani states that more volunteers are "desperately needed." The rising cost of living is also a factor, with families struggling to dedicate the time and resources required to care for elderly relatives. As Australia's aging population increases, the need for community support and volunteer engagement becomes even more critical.

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They have hope, they look forward to their next visit … and for the first time some of them are actually smiling and look forward to starting their day.