On this special occasion of Aged Care Employee Day, we celebrate Australia’s residential, home and community aged care workers. This year’s theme #ThanksForCaring recognises everyone involved in caring for older Australians. This year, we asked our wonderful Lifestyle Assistant, Pauline Holden, who has been a valued member of our team for nearly 10 years, to share her aged care journey and what working at Seabrae Manor Aged Care means to her.
What made you want to pursue a career in the aged care sector?
From a very young age, I had a caring nature and respect for the aged. I came from a family of 6 and we were all required to work shifts in my parent's general store. A lot of our customers were elderly, and I would always go out of my way to help them.
After I completed secondary school, I knew I wanted a career that involved caring for people, so I started my RN training. I struggled with the pressure of this role and decided to become an EN instead.
My first job was in a small hospital, which was mostly elderly people. This was when I knew that aged care was where I wanted to work, and I have spent the rest of my career in this sector.
What do you like most about your role and working at the home?
Working in lifestyle has been the highlight of my career in aged care. I have been able to bring my fun, crazy side into my work and put a smile on residents faces. Even if they are laughing at me and not with me! I love that I get to make a difference to their day and improve their quality of life.
Sometimes it’s the simple things that are important to them. Like taking the time to chat and hear their stories and what they like. They have so much to share from their life experiences. I will always give my residents a gentle touch or hold their hand, to show them I really care, as it can mean so much to them.
I also love the warmth and familiarity I have when I am at work. The teamwork, support and positivity within the team inspires me to push myself further.
What is most challenging about working in aged care?
You can be faced with difficult and aggressive behaviour at times, and it can be hard to know the best way to manage this, and every situation is different.
I get very disheartened when I try everything I can to have a positive interaction with a resident but can’t. It can be challenging to come up with new activities that are simple and fun that residents will engage in. They are a tough crowd!
You become so close with the residents and their families; it is always so hard when you lose them.
What is a special memory you have from working at the home?
I have so many special memories of residents who have touched my heart over the years. I have bonded with family members and become very close with staff. There have been so many special moments over the 10 years I have worked here.
Just recently, I was acknowledged for my 10 years of service and rewarded with a travel voucher. The feeling of appreciation I got from this is something I will never forget. I also felt very honoured to be asked to write about my role for Aged Care Employee Day.
I will always treasure my role at the home, and I hope I can continue to make a difference in the residents' lives for many more years to come.
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