A purposeful role with many rewards

Ruby, 22, has always enjoyed a close relationship with her grandparents. So when she wanted casual work while studying nursing, caring for older people in their homes was a natural choice.

It's turned out to not only be a great choice for her, but also for clients such as Dinah, who was feeling isolated and lonely at home. Ruby convinced her to join her for an outing to a Sydney beach - an adventure that brought joy to them both.

Here, Ruby shares how she knows she’s made the right decision to be a home carer...

Most days it doesn’t feel like work

"In a typical week, I can do a number of jobs, like transporting a client to a music and movement class, where we sing along the way. Or I might be cooking rissoles to store in a client’s freezer or accompanying them on a shopping outing.

"For me, supporting older people, making their day better, is more enjoyable than working in a café or a pub – we get to know each other. It’s a relationship."

Lessons I’ve learned along the way

"I’ve always been interested in older people and was brought up to respect their role in the community and the wisdom they’ve acquired throughout their life. My Nanna has 14 grandchildren - nine of us are girls aged 18-23 - and we often share a cup of tea at Nanna’s house. She’s shown us how resilient the older generation are. They’ve been through so much. Clients at 90 years of age can still be very active and engaged; I’m inspired by them."

The benefits can be surprising

"I feel really valued– suggestions I make on behalf of clients to improve their quality of life usually happen, which gives me a great sense of job satisfaction.

"My managers Emma and Fern are always available for support and advice; I never feel alone.

"Another benefit is the flexible nature of homecare work: I can fit my shifts around my changing university timetable, and even take blocks of time off in the term break for travel.

"I have a very special relationship with one client, Dinah. She became teary when I told her I'd received an award for my work. It was a very proud moment for her, too. I feel comfortable talking with her about most things, even my boyfriend, and sometimes she gives me great advice.

"Helping older people has taught me patience, and I’ve learned some practical skills such as how to iron a button-up shirt properly, or a pillowcase, and hanging out washing a certain way so that it reduces creases and dries quicker."

Plans and opportunities

"Next year I’m hoping to transfer from my Nursing degree to study Occupational Therapy. I’ll be exploring further opportunities with HammondCare once I have finished my studies. In the meantime, I might pick up weekend work as well, depending on my university timetable. The team at HammondCare has always been very flexible around my study priorities.

"Supporting people to live at home can be a humbling experience, and I get to slow down a little and take a breath while also providing support at a very personal level."

Come join us! Learn about our current job vacancies here: https://careers.hammond.com.au/jobs/search