Alison Lewis (70) has volunteered for the past two years as a court-appointed welfare guardian for a disabled woman in her 60s.
The role gave her the power and privilege to work with the woman to make decisions about her health and future care, she said.
Guardians were appointed to make decisions concerning the wellbeing of people with dementia, brain injuries or other complications, whose family were unable to help.
The ageing population meant a significant need for more people to volunteer for the role, which was ''a big commitment'' but also rewarding.
''It is so important to have people in place to make decisions about people going into care, if an elderly person needs an operation or some sort of procedure and it is not clear who can make the decisions it can make things very difficult.''
She had witnessed the complications of vulnerable people not having family members or appointed guardians, while working in hospitals in New Zealand.
''I have seen cases where people suddenly don't have the mental capacity to make decisions which makes their time on a ward longer.''
Decisions made by guardians ranged from taking people out on day trips to working with health professionals concerning treatment and care at the end of someone's life.
Guardians had no authority over the property or assets of the person to whom they were appointed.
While experience in the health sector was not necessary, it was helpful, Mrs Lewis said.
''I retired at 67 and I've still got something to offer.
''You've got to have good character, a good sense of humour and be committed.''
Guardians could be as young as 20. All applicants were required to go through a thorough application process and then be approved by a judge.
Two other retired social workers were among Dunedin guardians.
As well as improving the life of the person they were representing, guardians gained from the role, too.
''I know I have made a difference to her and to her life but she's made a difference to me,'' Mrs Lewis said.
