I was struck by something I read a few days ago on our corporate web site. It was a letter by a Home Instead Senior Care owner in Metairie, LA, about a client who so appreciated the services she received from CAREGivers with Home Instead that she decided to become one herself.
The letter conveyed that read, in part, she just lost her son and she wanted to be part of our company and contribute to others’ lives as we contributed to hers.
In fact, the Home Instead CAREGivers who provide services to our clients are truly the hearts and hands of our company. And, like this mother, their motivation stretches far beyond the wages they receive.
They’re caring people who represent a variety of ages, backgrounds and interests. And most, regardless of age or education, have already served as informal caregivers for their own family and friends.
These professional CAREGivers are using their real-life experiences along with their skills and training to work with seniors and others who need care. There’s Allyson, who herself has overcome major medical problems and keeps a very watchful eye on her clients, Cresensia who won’t let any client get by without eating a nutritious meal, and Tonia, who keeps long lists of things she wants to do for her clients. They’re all on a personal mission to help keep our clients safe and comfortable in their homes.
Don Weiman, a CAREGiver in Denver, Colorado, and the 2005 West Region “CAREGiver of the Year,” is the embodiment of this ideal. A prostate cancer survivor, he was diagnosed after just two months as a Home Instead CAREGiver; however, he decided to work right through his radiation treatments. “I think that working really kept my mind off of it,” Weiman said. “I could focus. When I’m with someone I’m in their world.”
I’m fortunate to work with people like Don, Allyson, Cresensia and Tonia and to offer our clients this invaluable resource.
Charlene Perrone, is a Certified Senior Advisor, and the owner of Home Instead Senior Care for Santa Clarita and the Antelope Valley.
For more information, please call Home Instead Senior Care at 661-254-8701.