"Caring for the Elderly leaves me feeling hugely fulfilled, that I have been able to bring a ray of sunshine and happiness into their lives."
We're able to carry out our work supporting the Elderly because of the special individuals who make up our Care team. Get to know them in our weekly Tea & Chat posts and find out more about why they are so passionate about caring for the Elderly.
What makes you so compassionate about caring for the Elderly?
Caring for the Elderly is so rewarding. If I had it in my power, I would look after every Elderly person who needed care, They’ve had their turn in life to be the breadwinners and mothers and now it’s their turn to be cared for and loved in the way they cared for their families. My heart very often feels like bursting with empathy and compassion that I am able to care for an older person who can no longer do certain things for themselves. Caring for the Elderly leaves me feeling hugely fulfilled, that I have been able to bring a ray of sunshine and happiness into their lives.
How has caregiving changed your life?
It has made me realise that I am not old, that in comparison to them I am a spring chicken (their words). Caring has given me a purpose in life. With my four children grown up and my seven grandchildren living in other towns and countries, I would be very lonely. I am now also very aware of all the different ways that age can affect a person. When I was young I never gave getting old a thought but as we reach middle age, we realise we are fast approaching old age, and what can happen to our mind and body. I often sit and wonder what route my mind and body will take as I get older.
What’s your favourite care memory?
I was a driver for a gentleman who had Dementia. He had a beautiful speaking voice, lovely British accent, spoke very well, having being a Preacher man. His singing voice was amazing and we used to sing along to a CD in the car every morning on the way to breakfast. He really lifted my spirits. One day he told me to shut up as I was irritating him. That was such a sad day for me because we didn’t sing any more. That is the unkind nature of Dementia, what you love one day can be a great irritation the next. This client took my understanding of rapidly deteriorating Dementia a new level. It was very challenging to deal with the moods and I always had to be ready to respond correctly, be it happiness, extreme sadness, frustration or anger.
Name your favourite food?
I don’t have any one favourite food - enjoy all foods.
What book are you reading at the moment?
I don’t read often but I find it very therapeutic to draw and paint on small rocks and pebbles. Also enjoy knitting.
What career would you chose after caring?
Well, being past the age of choosing a new career, I will become a CareCompany client and get the quality of caring that our company offers our clients. I should have chosen nursing as my career when I was younger. When I worked in the medical field I always enjoyed my interaction with patients.
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