My Future Choices

I am a student, I am 20 years old and I attend a special school. Last year I was extremely fortunate because I was offered a voluntary job as carer and work with clients who have Alzheimer’s. My role is to help to feed them, read to them, play games and to speak to them. This is a job that I really like as I can speak with the clients and share my dreams, goals and talk to them about my aspirations.

I have built great relationships with the clients, their families and the staff. Whilst at work I have been told that I am a ‘people person’ as I really enjoy talking about my dancing and my drama. I know the clients enjoy listening to me as I have been told that they like to hear a young voice with fresh ideas and dreams about their future as it sometimes brings back memories of when they were younger.

Whilst continuing to work voluntarily once again I was fortunate as I was given training for first aid and how to handle the elderly. This was overwhelming as I feel not only did the staff support me with the teaching methods, they gave me support when I made a mistakes time and time again. This has helped me to remember methods and I have built a strong relationship with the staff and the clients. They understand that I have learning difficulties and sometimes I have trouble remembering to do simple things like pack my lunch. However, the staff have helped me to organise myself, to learn about time and how to become more independent slowly but surely.

The clients I work with are sensitive and sometimes confused, forgetful, happy or very sad. They have mixed feelings and I like to see them feeling happy and I often sing to them. This method calms them down and their mood changes with tears transferred to a smile. That’s one thing I love about my job.

I love going to work because the best thing about working with clients who have Alzheimer’s is that every day is brand new. I reassure the clients that every little thing is going to be all right. They have gained my trust and believe in me. I say yet again I care and I will be there to find the best in YOU!

I love going to work because the best thing about working with clients who have Alzheimer’s is that every day is brand new. I reassure the clients that every little thing is going to be all right. They have gained my trust and believe in me. I say yet again I care and I will be there to find the best in YOU!InterACTion at Face Front