Supporting our Senior Indians: from Loneliness to Connection

The Silent Struggles of our Seniors

Have you ever paused to think about what life feels like for our elders? Especially those who have moved to Australia later in life, leaving behind the familiar comforts of home, their close friends, and long-standing routines? At first glance, it might seem like they have adjusted well, surrounded by family and a new environment. But beneath the surface, many face a quiet, ongoing struggle.

Settling into a new country can be challenging at any age, but for elders, the transition can be notably isolating. Everyday tasks that many take for granted, like

reading a bus timetable,

tapping Myki card on and off

making a doctor’s appointment, or

greeting a neighbour;

can feel unfamiliar, deeply confusing, overwhelming and even anxiety-inducing when there is a language barrier or cultural difference.

At home, elders may hold back from expressing their needs or emotions. They often worry about being seen as intervening or burdensome, especially in busy households. Even in homes filled with love, they can feel excluded, being unable to keep pace with fast-moving conversations or left out of decisions. Over time, this creates a quiet kind of loneliness that often goes unnoticed.

Fortunately, many community initiatives across Victoria are working to shift elders' loneliness to connection by creating culturally safe spaces where they feel included and empowered.

But it does not have to stay that way.

Small Things Make a Big Difference

To address the challenges faced by our elders, several community-led programs across Victoria are helping bridge the gap and promote seniors’ wellbeing. These initiatives are -

Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) offers tailored support such as in-home care, wellness programs and social groups, helping elders remain independent while staying connected to their communities.

Indian Senior's Groups

Culturally appropriate support groups offer elders a chance to share and connect with others who speak their language and understand their values. These familiar spaces help build routine, emotional safety and a sense of belonging.

Northern Region Indian Seniors Association (NRISA), based in Doncaster, runs yoga sessions, cultural events, and regular gatherings that promote health and social connection.

Indian Seniors Association West (ISA West) hosts monthly events in Melbourne’s western suburbs with music, yoga, and vegetarian lunches—reminding elders they are seen, heard, and valued.

Australian Indian Seniors Association (AISA) supports Indian seniors through various programs focused on health, wellbeing and community care.

Point Cook Indian Seniors Group meets monthly for games, singing, dancing, and puzzles, creating a joyful space where seniors can reconnect with traditions and friendships.

Dandenong North Senior Citizens Club, supported by the City of Greater Dandenong, offers a variety of wellbeing and cultural activities.

Club 60 in Tarneit hosts social events that provide warmth, laughter, and a strong sense of belonging.

Other active groups include Ladies Club 60, Sanjha Club, Cardinia Seniors Club, Tarneit Bhartiya Club, Legends International of Seniors Inc, Tarneit Harmony Club, United Seniors Club Inc, Sunrise Bhartiya Seniors Group, and Truganina North Seniors Association.

Other Senior's Programs

U3A

The University of the Third Age (U3A) offers a wide range of classes, including technology, art and cooking-across most of the suburbs. All communication is in English, and all seniors are welcome.

IndianCare's Online English Classes

IndianCare’s Senior's English Online Classes are designed especially for seniors. These go beyond teaching language, helping to build confidence in everyday conversations like greeting a neighbour or making a phone call. Held online in Hindi, the sessions provide a warm and welcoming space where learning feels safe and enjoyable.

Digital literacy at Neighbourhood Houses

Digital literacy initiatives, often run by neighbourhood houses, empower seniors to use digital devices to stay connected with family and carry out essential tasks online.

Caring for seniors

Our elders have spent their lives caring for others. They have nurtured families, built communities, and carried forward rich cultural traditions. Now, it is our turn to ensure they are supported—not just in the basics of care, but in ways that help them thrive.