Celebrating the friendships that make HillView Care feel like home

International Day of Friendship – July 30

When you think about aged care, you often think about medical support, personal care, and comfort. But there’s something just as important that often gets overlooked — connection.

At HillView Care Ashmore and Merrimac, we know that a friendly chat, a shared laugh, or simply knowing someone is there for you can make a huge difference. That’s why, this International Day of Friendship, we’re shining a light on the power of connection, companionship, and the friendships formed within the HillView Care community.

You’re never too old to make a new friend

Many of our residents arrive thinking they’re leaving something behind. But what they often find instead is something new: community, conversation — and friendship. Whether it’s out and about in the community, or just sharing a cuppa together, our residents have so many opportunities to connect and build friendships with each other. 

The importance of social connection

Isolation and loneliness can impact physical and mental health, especially as we get older. But connection can be just as powerful — and positive. According to research, strong social ties can improve cognitive health, lower the risk of depression, and even boost immunity. 

Whether it’s chatting over lunch, teaming up for a game of cards, or participating in one of our many group activities organised by our lifestyle team, residents are constantly engaging with others. And that engagement has a real, meaningful impact.

Friendship looks different for everyone

For some, friendship is a shared hobby or regular chat over coffee. For others, it might be the comfort of seeing familiar faces each day, or the support of someone who’s been through similar life experiences. These connections can help residents feel known, supported, and more at home.

Creating opportunities to connect

Friendship doesn’t always just happen — it’s something we actively nurture at our Gold Coast aged care homes. Our lifestyle teams work hard to create environments where residents can connect through shared interests, activities, and plenty of opportunities to chat and laugh together.

Some of our favourite friendship-building activities include:
Group exercise classes 

• Craft and art sessions, where creativity sparks conversation
• Book clubs and discussion groups for those who love a good debate
• Outings in the community
• Regular social events like themed lunches, happy hours, and movie nights

We also encourage family visits – there’s nothing like seeing a familiar face, sharing a laugh, or just spending some quality time together – whether it’s with friends, children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren.

Fostering friendship at HillView Care

At HillView Care, we believe true care is more than just nurturing physical well-being — it’s about emotional connection, too. It’s about feeling included, understood, and surrounded by people who make life a little brighter.

To all our HillView residents, staff, families and friends – thank you for the everyday moments of friendship, support and kindness. And if you’re thinking about aged care for yourself or someone you love, HillView is more than a place to live – it’s a community.