Reflecting on Years of Care and Service on Aged Care Employee Day
Aged Care Employee Day is marked annually on 7 August, a day to celebrate the enduring efforts of all Aged Care staff across Australia and acknowledge the care and professional work they deliver. Within The Salvation Army Aged Care, there are many long-serving staff members, some of whom have been with the organisation for decades.
Sarah, the Quality Systems Manager at Seaforth Gardens Aged Care Centre in Western Australia, has been with the organisation for 32 years, first commencing at the Centre as a domestic worker. She was then given the opportunity to become a carer and to study for a Certificate III and Certificate IV in Aged Care, before eventually completing a Diploma in Business Management.
When reflecting on her time with The Salvation Army Aged Care, Sarah says: “My favourite memory is of a very special resident who I made friends with on my first day. We both came from the same city in England, so we had lots in common. She was a resident for 15 years, until just over her 101st Birthday. She was a beautiful, kind, funny and appreciative of the care given to her and was loved by all the staff. She made us all feel special after providing care to her.”
Bernadette, a Care Service Employee, has been a staff member since 1995, following her completion of a Certificate III in Aged Care. For the last 13 years, Bernadette has worked at Macquarie Lodge Aged Care Centre in New South Wales. “I love looking after the residents and ensuring that they have the best care,” she says. “It is very fulfilling to not only caring for our residents but to also know that I can be good company to have a chat and even a laugh." Her advice for those considering a career in the Aged Care sector? “It is not just about looking after the residents, it is about ensuring the elderly feel they have been provided a positive difference - not just in their day, but in their quality of life.”
Rohini, a Care Service Employee at Weeroona Aged Care Centre in New South Wales, is also a long-serving staff member, having been with the organisation for over 32 years. “My passion for caring for the elderly began when I was looking after my own grandmother when I was a child,” she explains. “I was inspired by the connection with her and the positive impact I could have on her life. This experience solidified my decision to pursue a career in Aged Care in the early 1990s.” Since then, Rohini has undertaken additional training for her role to equip her to better understand and address the needs of those she cares for.
“My favourite memories involve celebrating Christmas with residents, where staff and residents would come together to decorate the Centre, sing carols and share a festive meal,” she says. “The sense of community and togetherness was truly magical, and it brought immense joy to see the residents’ faces light up with happiness.”
