The Unexpected Rewards of Caregiving
Any caregiver will tell you that the job has its challenges. Taking care of another human being is physically and emotionally demanding. But the job also has benefits and unexpected joy that you don’t find in other jobs, and this is what keeps caregivers showing up day after day.
“Once you get used to it and get to know the client, it’s the best. Oh yeah, it’s the best!” — Reginah Gathumbi
Reginah Gathumbi, who has been a caregiver since 2016, says once a routine is established, the job, well “it’s the best”. Her daily routine includes preparing meals, doing housework, laundry, and showering her clients. Reginah told us she took the job because she enjoys helping those who cannot help themselves. In fact, it gives her great joy to know that her clients are not only fed and showered but overall in a better state than when she greeted them in the morning. To be able to leave for the day, knowing she has improved the life of another, is worth the challenging part of the job.
“The smile the people give you and when they tell you thank you. There is no better feeling.” — Teta Shemsa
After many years of working with the elderly in Kenya, Teta Shemsa set her eyes on a degree in psychology here in America. In addition to being a student, she picked up a job with Alpha Home Care working with the elderly just 6 months ago.
While it is difficult to see her clients struggle with day-to-day tasks, she says there is no better feeling than to see them smile and hear a sincere thank you for helping them with tasks they cannot do themselves. To Teta, this is not just a job. Her clients and their families become like family to her and sometimes good friends. Teta shared the story of one client who eventually moved to a long-term care facility once he was no longer able to live on his own, even with part-time care. Teta still visits him in his new residence, just to say hello. She said she has built such lasting friendships in such a short time, that she often meets up for coffee with her client's family members long after the care is over.
Reginah and Teta are far too humble to brag about the impact they have on their client's lives. Instead, they list off a small number of challenges and a much longer list of how the job brings immense joy and happiness to their lives.
Some jobs are more rewarding than others. Caretaking is one of those. If you are the type of person who cares about others, builds deep relationships, and finds fulfillment in helping people while maintaining a flexible schedule, in-home caregiving and homekeeping might be a great fit for you. Visit our Careers page to learn more about our open positions, or feel free to ask us a question!
