Elderly Family Members Inspire Carers' Careers

On Aged Care Employee Day on August 7, Carinity celebrates the contribution of our dedicated employees who care for Queensland seniors. The day recognises the contribution of the 370,000 aged care workers nationwide, who support more than 1.5 million older Australians.

It includes nurses, personal care workers, allied health professionals, lifestyle coordinators, hospitality teams, cooks, cleaners and administration staff.

Minnarose Chacko, who began working as a Clinical Nurse (Infection Control) at the Carinity Karinya Place aged care community in Laidley last year, believes caring for seniors is “truly a blessing."

“I love interacting with older people. I love to hear their life stories. It is mesmerising to see them smiling and being happy,” Minnarose said.

“I am a person who believes that we will receive what we give. I always see myself in my residents. I know that I will be one of them in 50 years.

“I believe that all the help and assistance I provide to my residents today, I will receive when I am older.”

Family in India inspired Minnarose’s decision to work in aged care. Her mother is a nurse and Minnarose also “had such a good bond with my grandma."

“I love helping elderly people. It is an amazing job and really eye opening. It is challenging work, but it is worth it,” Minnarose said.

For Virginia Vaughan, caring for seniors in her role with Carinity Home Care Rockhampton is a continuation of supporting the elderly when she was younger.

“I was fortunate to grow up with two sets of grandparents – one of whom we lived with most of my childhood – and a set of great-grandparents. I have always had a deep regard for the lifelong experiences of the people around me,” Virginia said.

“About eight years ago my grandfather became terminally ill, and I took turns with my mother to nurse him in his own home through his final months. This really made me passionate about ensuring people can stay in their homes as long as possible.

“I particularly enjoy a bit of banter and a good yarn about the extraordinary lives people have led so far. Building these relationships ensures that I know my clients well and can help forge the best support systems for them.

“If gratitude were a currency, workers in the aged care industry would be rich.”

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