Saturday 7 August is Aged Care Employee Day. This is a day to recognise each and every team member involved in caring for the 1.3 million older Australians receiving home care or residential care services.
VMCH CEO Sonya Smart says the day is an important reminder to say thank you to those working in the sector do every day.
‘Nurses and care workers, allied health professionals, hospitality teams, drivers, cleaners, volunteers, lifestyle officers, administration staff and many, many others, they all do such a great job, every day.
‘Saying thank you is so simple, but it can mean so much. All of our wonderful staff work tirelessly across our at-home and residential aged care services, making a difference to the lives of others every day. There are a lot of people who keep the wheels turning, and they all do a magnificent job.
‘The effort they put in every day, especially during what is a very unsettling period of time, is recognised and so appreciated. With additional PPE requirements, visitor restrictions and an ever-present sense of caution, this is an unexpected way that we are being forced to work, and I thank all of our team for continuing to be a committed and passionate part of our organisation.’
Jessy Singh is the Lifestyle Coordinator at VMCH John R Hannah Aged Care Residence, Mulgrave. She says for her, working with older people was a calling.
‘Coming from Malaysia, I was living with my grandparents and they are some of my best memories. When my grandmother became sick, it was her smiles to show her appreciation that gave me a sense of fulfilment and happiness.
‘I love connecting with the residents as they are like family to me. I’m always learning from their wealth of knowledge and life experiences. It’s a great honour to be their caregiver and having the opportunity to spend time with them.
‘It’s not just a job but a passion in enriching people’s lives and making a difference in the aged care sector. The residents are amazing people and by bringing care and happiness to them, you are rewarded with gratitude and blessings.’
