Volunteers sought by dementia services provider

A Woy Woy dementia specialist aged care provider is seeking volunteers in the lead-up to National Volunteer Week, May 20-26.

HammondCare Woy Woy's volunteer coordinator Ms Tania Farmer said the facility was so thankful for its many volunteers that help ensure residents get the absolute most out of their time.

One such volunteer, Mr Graham Mowbray, has been volunteering at the facility for months and has been an invaluable addition to the volunteer team, she said.

Mr Mowbray said he had easily integrated his volunteer duties into his lifestyle and thoroughly enjoyed getting to know residents.

"I had a preconceived idea that people living with dementia were difficult to talk to and had little memory.

"However, having met quite a few people living with dementia and getting to know them and their history, I learned that they are certainly not difficult to talk to.

"Learning about people and hearing about their life experiences has been fascinating and so enjoyable it is hard to express in words," Mr Mowbray said.

"It has been very rewarding having residents' relatives and friends come up to me, thanking me for spending time with their loved ones, but little do they know, spending time with the residents has been my pleasure," he said.

During his time as a volunteer with HammondCare Mr Mowbray said he was able to enjoy a number of activities from lawn bowls, swimming and scrabble to scenic trips around the Central Coast, all while spending time with residents.

"There are so many volunteer roles available at HammondCare.

"I have spent time trying to lawn bowl, which means that we get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

"Sometimes it is sitting down to have a cup of tea and a chat.

"Occasionally I drive the bus to the swimming pool, but most of the time I get in the pool and enjoy the company of the residents, whether it is talking, swimming or being taught how to float on my back.

"This has encouraged me to attempt to complete the Bronze Medallion so that I can volunteer as a lifesaver," Mr Mowbray said.

"If anyone is interested in volunteering and like me, passionate about helping others in need, I highly recommend spending time with other people, whether it is with HammondCare or another respected organisation," Mr Mowbray said.

SOURCE:

Media release, 3 May 2019

Tania Farmer, HammondCare