Why Community Support Worker Karen loves working with allcare

“I think the elderly have a lot of wisdom to impart so you actually get to learn a lot of things that are unexpected.” - Karen

allcare is committed to delivering genuine consumer-directed care, and that’s why we need the highest quality staff. Today we talk to Karen, an allcare Community Support Worker who loves making a difference in the lives of her clients.

What drew you to the aged care sector?

Before joining allcare in 2022, I worked with the elderly for around seven years. I experienced my parents almost having to go into an aged care facility, however, due to people coming into their home and helping them, they were able to keep their independence and stay at home. I thought that was a really valuable thing to do. It drew me into wanting to pursue a career in aged care to help elderly people stay in their own home.

What are some things you like about working with allcare?

I like that I get to engage with the same clients every week. This helps me really get to know them and be part of their routines. They also appreciate getting to know me and can come to rely on me. On top of this, allcare offers lots of support whenever I need it. I find the office staff really easy to talk to and get along with.

What are some of the services you deliver to clients? 

Some of the services I provide are supporting clients with their personal care, such as showering and getting dressed, contributing to the day-to-day household cleaning, taking clients grocery shopping and helping put away their food and just engaging with them socially. 

I think the social aspect of what I do is the most important as some elderly don’t get to see many people throughout the week. I make sure to have a good chat and do things they like to do – like how I play cards with Merve and Faye. They taught me to play card games that I would have never known before.

Why are you proud to help people stay in their own home for as long as possible?

Being in your own home is so important for your independence – and I’m proud I get to contribute to that. A lot of elderly people have been in their homes for a long time and this familiarity of place and routine has a positive impact on their daily lives. At the end of the day, people want to be able to do what they want to do, the way they want to do it, and I get to make that happen.

At allcare, we’re always looking for people who are dependable, respectful, innovative, and have a passion for providing person-centred care for our clients. If you’re interested in making a meaningful impact to the lives of older Australians, learn more about our available job opportunities here: https://www.allcare.org.au/careers