Join us as we meet some of our amazing aged care workers.
Having moved into the aged care sector only a few short years ago, Makayla is already making a profound impact on the lives of older people in the Central Tablelands region.
Moving into aged care
Speaking with the Orange local about why she decided to make the transition from childcare into aged care, she said it was based on the guidance of her grandparents – who themselves received in-home care services.
“I used to spend a lot of time with them in Canberra before I relocated three years ago to be closer to family,” she says.
“When I was considering my next career move, they recommended that I try my hand in community aged care. I was reluctant at first, as I’m a sensitive person and was worried about how I’d handle the inevitable passing of my clients. But they were adamant that I had the right character and mindset for the work, so I decided to give it a go.
“Now I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. The work is interesting, challenging, and can sometimes be tough – but I’m still always excited to come to work each day.”
The Care Facilitator role
As a Care Facilitator, Makayla’s role is about empowering older people to keep their independence and continue living in their own homes for as long as possible.
“I work with them to create a plan for their future care, based on their unique needs and goals for the future,” Makayla explains.
Since joining BaptistCare just under a year ago, some of Makayla’s clients have passed away and she says it’s been a bittersweet experience.
“It’s deeply sad when someone you cared for has passed, but to know that you made a genuine, tangible impact on that person’s life during their last few years is deeply rewarding,” she says.
According to Makayla, if you want to be successful in aged care, you have to be a ‘people person’ - willing to slow down and take a soft, caring approach.
“A home care package shouldn’t be a quick signup – you have to take time to get to know the person and understand their unique situation and needs.
“Many clients feel like they’re a bother and a burden, and my role is to show them that it’s okay to ask for help. It’s about slowly unpeeling the layers to gain trust and understanding.”
Celebrating Christmas with local BaptistCare at home clients: Makayla’s role is about empowering older people to keep their independence in later life.
Coin collecting, reading, and heavy metal rock
Outside of work, Makayla says she’s an old soul, enjoying the simple things in life like reading and spending time with family.
“People are often surprised to learn that I’m only 25 years old as I’m a bit of a Nana,” she smiles. “I love coin collecting. It’s a generational thing – my mum, nana and I do it together.”
And just to break the ‘Nana’ mould entirely, Makalya also loves attending local heavy metal rock gigs!
“Do as much as you can, for as long as you can.”
Asked what she loves most about working in aged care, Makayla says it’s hearing what her clients liked to do in their younger years.
“I love hearing about what they did for work, who their families are, what hobbies they enjoy,” says Makayla. “It can be poignant, especially if the person doesn’t have any family left. But it’s such a privilege to hear their amazing stories.”
Makayla’s tip for healthy ageing is to simply take each day at a time.
“I always tell my clients to do as much as you can, for as long as you can. Each person ages differently.”
