As we age, loneliness can often take hold. With a lot of uncertainty as we grow older, it’s easy to feel a little lost and alone as your social network shrinks.
Studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness have a serious impact on longevity, physical and mental health, and quality of life.
At Adventist Aged Care, we believe that our residents should live with dignity and compassion in a connected community. It’s not just a home, it’s a neighbourhood—a village where friendships and community thrive.
We recently chatted to Pastor Tuni Laikum at Adventist Aged Care Wahroonga to hear his thoughts on the power of prayer and connection to God to help keep loneliness at bay.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
“I feel very privileged to be talking to people who have had so much life experience. I really learn so much from them,” says Pr Tuni.
In his time at Adventist Aged Care, Pr Tuni has been able to grow closer to his faith and the word of God.
How do you maintain your faith in times of anguish or loneliness?
“I go straight to the word of God. My relationship with God is what allows me to keep going despite any difficult challenges I may come across,” Pr Tuni says.
He views his life experience as “rising above” from any challenges he may face.
“I like to use the phrase ‘rising above’ because that’s exactly what I do. I use His word to lift me up from where I am, and I rise above the challenges.”
How can people facing loneliness use God to help them get through?
“I respect the beliefs of others, but I believe that God is always there.” Pr Tuni believes that it doesn’t hurt to have God in your corner.
“I always tell residents to just try it out. I say, ‘You’ve tried other stuff. Why not try this, and see if it works for you? If it doesn’t, you don’t lose anything.’ Even if they don’t feel that connection to God, there’s no harm in seeing what it can do for you.”
The value that being connected to God, Pr Tuni notes, is immeasurable.
“I believe that the most powerful connection you can have, is with God. You can’t feel lonely when you know God is with you. When you feel connected to God, you are loving, patient, kind, and respectful. These values are all instilled in you when you feel the peace and companionship that comes with being connected to God.”
To find out more about Adventist Aged Care including Residential Aged Care or Independent Living, or to arrange a tour of our facilities, contact our friendly staff by calling 02 8834 6100 for Kings Langley or 9487 0600 for Wahroonga sites, or visit our website aacsyd.org.au.
