Care Workers Are Anything But ‘Thick’

We Pour Care, Not Just Tea

Photo by 𝔥𝔦𝔩𝔩𝔞𝔯𝔶 𝔭𝔢𝔯𝔞𝔩𝔱𝔞 on Unsplash

“Wow, you’re a carer, that doesn’t require a lot of brainpower, does it? You just show up and make a cup of tea.”

Yes, you read that correctly. As carers, we go above and beyond to assist the elderly:

• Ensuring their safety
• Preparing meals, taking into account their specific dietary requirements
• Administering medications or eye drops
• Maintaining a tidy environment
• Handling laundry
• Concealing our inner struggles behind a smile
• Providing companionship and entertainment
• Monitoring blood sugars and blood pressure
• Staying current with moving and handling training

And so much more.

So, for those who believe this job is as easy as 123, you’re mistaken, my friend. To excel in this role, one must be fully dedicated, patient, understanding, caring, quick-thinking, and capable of making crucial decisions. The lives of those we care for rest in our hands.

Today, I had the privilege of reconnecting with an old friend I hadn’t spoken to in three years. We attended school together and shared occasional nights out while…