Building a life after everything changes

When Gordon's wife, Anne, moved into a care home four years ago, life changed dramatically. After 69 years of marriage, Anne's dementia had progressed to the point where she needed full-time care, leaving Gordon living alone for the first time in his adult life.

"After living with someone for 60-odd years, suddenly you're on your own," Gordon says.

Recognising the risk of isolation, Gordon's daughter encouraged him to get involved with Link. She brought him along to Link Thursdays and, as Gordon puts it, "It just clicked. It really did."

Before joining Link, Gordon would often take the bus into town and spend time wandering around on his own. One day, a member of the Link team noticed him and invited him to join a friendship table at a local café.

"Instead of wandering around on my own, I'm meeting people," Gordon says.

That simple invitation became the start of a new chapter. Now 91, Gordon enjoys a busy social calendar. He attends Link Thursdays each week, uses Readibus to bring him to shop in Wokingham, which he combines with attending the Friendship table at the Sedero Lounge on Mondays, bowling sessions and the Gentlemen's Friendship Group. Seeing familiar faces throughout the week has helped him build friendships, maintain his independence and stay connected to his community.

"I've ended up being involved on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, and I think that's the important thing."

While Gordon continues to face the challenges that come with having a loved one living with dementia, Link has helped him find purpose, companionship and a renewed sense of belonging.

"You meet people, you've got something to do."

"People don't have to be on their own if they know about it."

For Gordon, Link is not just about filling time. It's about friendship, connection and continuing to live a life that feels meaningful, even when circumstances change.