Finding fulfilment: changing careers to support elderly people
At Spectrum, our aged care program is vital in helping elderly people live comfortably and independently in their own homes. Support Workers play a key role in this mission, providing personal care, domestic assistance, and social activities that make a real difference in the lives of our clients. We recently spoke with Trang, a newly recruited Support Worker, about her journey from working in insurance to finding her true calling in aged care.
“I’d been in insurance for about 15 years, “said Trang, “but in the back of my mind I’ve always wanted to work with the elderly and help the elderly.”
“I had wanted to get into nursing and work with the elderly, but my sister discouraged me. She said, ‘Trang, you love too hard and too much and you’ll get attached to them and they’re going to pass away and it’s going to impact and affect you.’ She suggested I should work with children, but I just think that children are always loved whereas the elderly can sometimes be forgotten and neglected.”
Trang was also drawn to the Support Worker role for the flexibility to be able to work shifts around her family responsibilities.
“Working in a nursing home is 7 to 3 – and mothers can’t do that. For myself, I never got in the industry because I couldn’t do the hours because I have school age children. When I found out about Support Worker roles, I thought ‘Magnificent!’ you can do your own hours.”
Trang had recently worked with another employer but chose to move to Spectrum because she liked that uniforms were provided, as well as ongoing training.
“Here (at Spectrum), I can see that you invest in your workers and that’s what I love! The induction was great, very informative. Things are always changing and evolving in this industry and it’s good to get information on what you can and can’t do, and the limitations as well.”
At Spectrum, we are always looking for people who are keen to make a difference for elderly people – and for some, like Trang, the experience is also life-changing.
“I love people, it’s my nature, I just want to give. All my clients have asked me to come back every week.”
“I’m content that I finally listened to my heart after so many years, have done the course, gotten in the industry, and I’m finally here.”
If you’re looking for a meaningful career change like Trang, consider becoming a Support Worker with Spectrum. Join us in helping elderly people feel at home in their own homes.