Join us as we meet some of our amazing aged care workers.
Casey is a former Registered Nurse who made the move from hospital work to aged care just five months ago. Now working as a Care Home Residential Manager at BaptistCare’s Maranoa Centre, she shared with us why she chose to leave the acute sector, what she loves most about working in aged care, and her tips for healthy ageing.
From hospitals to homes
Making the move from hospital work to aged care homes was certainly not a decision Casey made lightly.
“Nursing is a very giving profession, but moving into aged care was also about taking care of myself so that I could better take care of others,” she explains. “Making that decision a reality was a big personal achievement for me.”
As well as offering better work-life balance, Casey says aged care has given her an opportunity to get to know her residents over time and build relationships.
“One of the main features of working in the acute sector is the constant pressure to get people out of the hospital once they come in. The focus stops being so much about the person and more about the bed space.
“Aged care is quite different. It’s built into my role to spend time with residents, to support them in feeling happy, safe, and at home. It still feels like a bit of a luxury to be able to do that!”
Supporting staff to support residents
Casey says that her role as Residential Manager is primarily about supporting her team to deliver exceptional, person-centred care to residents.
“I don’t provide direct care, although I often interact with residents,” says Casey. “My role, though, is more about taking care of the staff that work here and ensuring that the home is always running smoothly.”
Part of the care home community
And the support goes both ways. According to Casey, aged care homes offer a close-knit and supportive community for residents and employees alike.
“Our care home community is made up of hundreds of people – from the residents and their family members to the BaptistCare staff and those who come into the home to provide services. There is really a strong sense of community with a lot of support – it’s a privilege to be a part of it,” says Casey.
A balanced life
Outside of work, Casey loves to spend time with her two children who are fifteen and twelve. She also adores hanging out with her fur babies, a Jack Russell, and a gorgeous Australian Cobberdog, which is a mix of a Labrador, Poodle, and Spaniel – bred for their high emotional intelligence and lack of shedding.
“We love to spend time in nature together,” says Casey. “The Northern Rivers region has some stunning beaches and waterfalls, they are great for unwinding.”
Her tip for healthy ageing
Casey's advice for healthy ageing is simple: keep your body moving and lean into the things in life that bring you joy.
"It’s what we try to do for our residents here at BaptistCare,” she says. “We want to create an environment where residents can receive care that not only boosts their physical health, but also empowers them to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.”
