Ephraim O.

Greetings! I fell in love with caregiving while attending travel school, and working for an elderly man in his home. My passion for caregiving comes from growing up in a large family and always having people around me of all ages. I adored my grandparents, and had the pleasure of caring for all of my older siblings children before having 2 of my own. When I lost my grandparents, I decided that I wanted to spend my time around seniors, helping them to remain in their homes as long as possible. It has been a 35 year career for me, and I enjoy it more every day! The personalities of my clients are so varied and so valuable, and the knowledge and humor I have witnessed has been truly priceless. I hope I can somehow give back as much as I have been given.

A caregiver of seven years trained to handle a variety of health and behavioral situations, I am aware of the impulse of families to want to ensure the health and well-being of loved ones. The help may just call for daily living activities with extra touches that make life worthwhile: decent exercise, tasty healthy meals, a clean, pleasant environment, a good listener and conversationalist, and kind, competent care. Some situations, however, require attending to seemingly insignificant, but crucial tasks, such as reminders to drink enough liquids, to move body and limbs periodically to avoid pressure points and muscle atrophy. I believe my care is dispensed with respect, kindness, and purpose, mindful their need for such greater than ever. A general "How are you?" might be followed with a specific "Do you feel dizzy",; and too long a spell on the couch will suggest an exercise or outside to smell the roses. The idea, above all, is to provide for the well-being of body and soul. A wise tip I learned is to give old people something to look forward to, whether a fun treat or an item in their bucket list. It may not always be possible, but sometimes, even just trying helps. My career history is eclectic, but caregiving suits me because I believe I make a difference in the lives of those in my care; more often than not, the tables are turned to make me pay attention. I consider my charges' health and well-being challenges, such as easing a cynic's attitude with kindness or making one's last days a comfort. By researching and learning about their ailments before I take over, I make certain I "do no harm". I have gained hands on and annual online training from Home Health Aide courses and nurse delegated work. An energetic, resourceful worker, I offer empathy, kindness, and a bright outlook. They are what I gave my mom, now lovingly sent off to join dad, with plenty to spare for others.