A job that changed me: I cried nearly every day working in aged care, then realised I could bring joy instead
I once asked a resident what she would do if she could do anything. She replied: ‘I’d run in a field’
TL;DR
- The author transitioned to aged care reception work after her previous roles in acting and facilitation disappeared due to COVID-19.
- Initially, she found the role emotionally challenging, often crying due to confronting residents, particularly those with dementia.
- A perspective shift, prompted by a colleague, helped her understand her reactions were tied to her own fears of aging and mortality.
- She learned to bring joy and love to her work, appreciating the opportunity to connect with residents and her own life more.
- The author worked in aged care for three years, finding the experience deeply meaningful and highlighting the value of intergenerational connection and mutual appreciation.