Working as a Carer – More than just a job

I have worked as a carer with my client for about 8 years now. We have built a beautiful friendship over this time to the point where really, we feel like family. Our client-carer relationship has grown to feel more than just a job.

During the recent pandemic my client, due to restrictions, had no family or friends visit him for many months. Not only does he live alone, where he lives is quite isolated. With the isolation he was unable to go shopping and was not able to get a slot for food delivery. So, I would call to check he was ok and if he needed any shopping, would add his food to my shopping list and drop it round. It also felt great to support him by just saying hi on the doorstep whilst dropping off groceries. I would never leave it too long before I did a check in call.

This is simply basic care of another human being. It was just what was needed.  It was the most natural thing in the world to support him through this, as I would have my own grandfather.

During this time of isolation when I did my monthly cleaning visit, I was amazed at how light-hearted he was, which blew me away, there is such a surrender and beauty in this elderly gentleman. He would not moan or complain, and he wasn’t checking out, far from it, he remained as bright as a button. He knows exactly what is going on.

I loved taking care and checking in on him during the pandemic, even though he was in a vulnerable position there was such a strength with him. The whole situation hadn’t knocked him, I was amazed at his steadiness and resilience. He had been one of 10 siblings, money had been tight growing up and he was grateful for what he had. There wasn’t comparison and competition when growing up, just an appreciation for what he did have and the relationships he had with his family, particularly his siblings. I loved hearing about his childhood. He lived very simply, ate what he needed to eat – he wasn’t accustomed to over-eating. He ate simple, healthy foods and lived very simply. He loved being in the garden and nature and his house feels beautifully still.

He is a great inspiration for me.

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