The Community Visitor Scheme is a great way of reducing social isolation of the elderly in aged care homes. There is no personal care or lifting involved, but the volunteer just needs to provide an ear for a friendly chat. Some visitors have a coffee and a chat with the resident, or engage in easy activities such as reading or doing puzzles, writing to pen-pals or playing cards. Some visitors are also involved in groups, such as craft, bingo or helping with excursions. Volunteers need to be friendly, chatty, patient and be understanding of residents with hearing problems or possible memory issues.
