Aged Care Employee Day is an annual celebration on August 7 to recognise the 456,000 aged care workers who support older Australians.
More than 1,300 dedicated Carinity aged care and home care workers support Queensland seniors to live safe and fulfilling lives.
Jennifer Johnson worked as a primary school teacher and principal for 33 years. She now supports Hervey Bay seniors as a Lifestyle Carer for Carinity Home Care.
“I chose to work in seniors care as I believed it would give me a deep sense of purpose and provide me with the opportunity to make meaningful connections with valued people in my community,” she said.
Olivia Becher, an Activities Officer at Carinity Clifford House in Brisbane, was inspired to work in aged care as she “always felt a strong connection with looking after people and trying to brighten people’s days.”
“My biggest motivation is supporting the residents. I enjoy their stories and caring for them; they have a lot of wisdom, life experience and fascinating histories,” Olivia explains.
“Seeing them smile, laugh and have a good time fills me with joy. It makes me want to do everything I can to make sure they stay happy and keep loving life.”
He worked as a lab technician, hotel security, and video games arcade manager, but Rakesh Prasad “always had a desire to help and work for seniors”.
“What motivates me to help others in my role is a bond that you build over years looking after residents. They become your family away from home,” said Rakesh, who has worked at Carinity Colthup Manor aged care in Ipswich for 23 years.
“What I enjoy the most caring for seniors is the love, affection, and appreciation you gain through looking after them. It truly is very inspirational for me.”
Moira Williams and Preet Pannu support seniors living at the Carinity Fairfield Grange aged care home in Townsville.
“I enjoy building positive relationships with residents and knowing that my support can make their day easier, safer and more enjoyable,” Moira said.
“Knowing that I can help them feel comfortable, respected and valued gives me a strong sense of purpose and satisfaction.”
Preet enjoys “interacting with residents, listening to their stories, and knowing that I am helping to improve their quality of life”.
“Seeing residents happy and knowing that my work contributes to their comfort and wellbeing motivates me every day,” Preet said.
Peggy Wilson has worked across the aged care sector for 12 years and enjoys “making a genuine difference” in the lives of seniors supported by Carinity Home Care Hervey Bay.
“Knowing that even the smallest acts of kindness, encouragement and compassionate care can make a difference to someone’s everyday life is what I enjoy the most,” Peggy explains.
For Mariana Brat, the most fulfilling thing about being a personal carer at Carinity Cedarbrook aged care on the Gold Coast is “the bonds you form with residents, their families, and fellow staff members”.
“The best part of working with the elderly is listening to their life history, experiences, travels, and lots of interesting stories,” Mariana said.
“I am happy when the residents are happy. Every day is different and I go to work with joy.”Carinity CEO, Kevin Griffiths, feels honoured to lead a “committed team of people who are so passionate about providing care and comfort to older members of their community”.
“Whether they live in our residential aged care homes or we assist them in their own house, the individuals in our care are truly fortunate to have such committed and loving people supporting them.”
