What inspired you to be a caregiver?
Before becoming a caregiver, I worked in a nursing home in Waukegan. I assisted the aides and one recommended I take a certified nursing assistant class. I completed the class and really enjoyed it.
Why did you choose to work in home care?
Home care is more one-on-one. When I care for someone at his or her home, as opposed to in a nursing home, I am more engaged and get to know the person and the families better.
What is your favorite part about being a caregiver?
When you care for aging adults, you learn something valuable every day. I cared for a man who had been married for 62 years. His wife, who used to make wedding dresses, taught me how to sew.
What are some challenges you have as a caregiver?
The greatest challenge for me has been caring for aging adults who are new to assisted care. One woman had a hard time adjusting and recently lost her second husband and was diagnosed with cancer. I reminded her to take one day at a time and reassured her that I was there to help.
What lessons have you learned being a caregiver?
I’ve learned to appreciate aging adults and to treat them the way you would want to be treated. I love working with aging adults because it helps to see the reality of what my own life will be like. After all, they were once my age.
What do you like most about working for Open Arms Solutions?
I like the staff’s attentiveness. I can call an Open Arms care coordinator any time I need help and he or she works to resolve the issue. The staff is very flexible and accommodating.
What are you most looking forward to this summer?
A cruise to the Bahamas with friends and family!
To find a professional home care agency whose caregivers go above and beyond to ensure compassion and loved ones’ safety, visit http://openarmssolutions.com, our Facebook page or call (847) 272-4997.
