A good talk, a listening ear and five years of friendship

Joan Pearce admits she's a talker.

Fortunately, that's exactly what makes her such a valued volunteer visitor.

As she prepares to receive recognition for five years as an Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme volunteer with IMPACT Community Services, Joan reflects on the friendships, conversations and memories that have made every visit worthwhile.

"All they want to do is talk, and I must admit, I am a good talker," she laughed.

Over the past five years, Joan has visited five older people experiencing social isolation, forming friendships that have left a lasting impression on her life.

"I just love to volunteer," Joan said.

"I think it's a shame that there are so many lonely people out there that really need someone to come and see them."

Joan's time as a volunteer visitor is just one chapter in a much longer volunteering journey.

Since moving to Queensland in 2004, she has dedicated countless hours to helping others, first at the Blood Bank and later supporting patients at the local hospital.

Having previously worked for the Department of Community Services in Sydney, volunteering felt like a natural fit. It also helped her build connections after relocating to a new state.

"I didn't know anybody, except my daughter, and that's very hard when you don't know anybody."

Her first visitor was a woman living in Bargara who was receiving palliative care.

"She was just the loveliest lady. She was so full of life and we just talked all the time and had coffee. I loved her dearly."

Another was Gordon, who shared stories about growing up in the outback and life around horses.

Today, Joan visits May and Ron, who she describes as wonderful company.

Being a similar age to the people she visits helps create an immediate connection.

"We remember the same things. May is from New South Wales, so we have a lot in common."

Over the years, Joan has also experienced one of the most difficult parts of volunteering: saying goodbye. Several of the people she visited have since passed away.

"They say don't get close, but it's very hard not to. I've gotten close to all of them."

As a widow herself, Joan understands the importance of connection and companionship.

"I've been a widow for more than 10 years,” Joan said. “Why sit at home feeling sorry for yourself when you could be out there bringing some comfort to people and doing a bit of good somewhere?"

While her visits provide companionship for others, they also bring purpose and connection to her own life.

Her advice to anyone considering volunteering is simple.

"Absolutely do it. I think you have to like people to do it."

Five years on, Joan is still doing what she enjoys most: sharing stories, building friendships and making sure someone has a friendly face to look forward to.

And for Joan, that's time well spent.