While ‘Bowl N Dance’ was a roaring success, social engagement for seniors must be encouraged throughout the year. SydWest operates culture and language-specific social support groups for seniors that help break social isolation through regular social outings, information sessions and group sharing.

Raj and Satya Singh are regular members of the Blacktown Indian-Fijian Seniors’ Social Group, as well as recipients of our Home Care Package, which supports seniors to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

“My husband and I joined the Seniors’ Social Support group 2 years ago because we wanted to socialise with people outside our immediate family. The Indian-Fijian Senior’s Social Group gives us the opportunity to meet a wider group of people, who we could still communicate with easily.

“We have an excursion or event nearly every month to look forward to, but with nearly 25 people in our social group we have made lots of friends who we like to spend time with outside the group as well. 

“Another thing that has helped us are the information sessions. These have helped us understand what kind of support we have access to, in our own language.

“Through the social group, we learned we were eligible for the Home Care Package, which provides some assistance to us in our own homes, so we can stay independent and avoid a nursing home. 

“Vithya, our group coordinator, has done an excellent job making sure we always have information when we need it or a fun event to look forward to. It’s really helpful to have someone be able to communicate with you in your language.”

Raj & Satya Singh