joseph w.

Hello, I have helped care for my father-in-law for going on 3 years now. I have been told I am patient, observant, attentive, empathetic and joyful. I take pride in finding ways to improve day to day tasks. Finding the most efficient and effective routines to follow can be really helpful, especially with mobility challenged patients that have mental challenges as well. I really enjoy just being a help to those who need it. I believe we should care for those that have difficulties caring for themselves. A personal achievement I am proud of is having the trust of my mother-in-law to care for her husband. This allows her to rest, get out of the house, or just recharge.

I have always wanted to help people with special needs; perhaps because I had a sibling who was born with severe disabilities, so I know first hand the difficulties and challenges faced by these individuals and their families. There was very little help available when I was a child, so we relied mainly on our family for the help and support we needed. Back then, there were no respite services or in-home caregiver services. You took your chances on finding a trustworthy stranger (if you could afford one). Now, it is very gratifying to me to be able to help other people who are dealing with illness or disability in any way I can. I like to make jewelry and craft items, and I like to share those hobbies with my clients, if they're interested. Many of them seem to enjoy these activities and find them gratifying. I also love to read, and some clients enjoy being read to, which I also enjoy. I've been told I'm a good listener and a pretty good companion, as I can adapt to whatever my client is capable of and willing to do. I am experienced, caring, and am a retired social worker.