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Level 3 Enrolled Nurse Cyril Mathews was always close to his grandparents. Their care for Mr Mathews, turned into his passion for caring for others at our Residential Aged Care Home, murrenda.
"I've had a soft spot for older people and from a cultural perspective as well I was taught to respect them and look up to them. They always have something they'd like to share with us. Eventually when my grandparents passed away in India, I felt like I wasn't there for them.
"My mum is also a nurse, so caring for others, runs in the family. I've always just wanted to help all the residents who sometimes might not be able to help themselves. We are here to help them achieve their goals and needs, as they would if they were at home," he said.
This Aged Care Employee Day (7 August), Mr Mathews reflected on his eight years of experience and the important role our staff play in fostering excellent care and experiences for our consumers and their families.
Mr Mathews works in Cherry Blossom Grove at murrenda, which is home to consumers living with more complex conditions including dementia.
"Often people who have dementia and similar conditions may not be able to convey their needs as effectively as they used to. Getting to really know them is a big part of the job, and sometimes a staff member who has been present for a longer period of time might understand the consumer's needs sooner.
"We do our best to manage their care without using pharmacological interventions which may be playing their favourite music or even just offering them a cup of tea. Sometimes the most important thing they need is someone who is willing to listen to their needs; we always try our best to help them accordingly," he explained.
Often is the case that the most rewarding aspect of Mr Mathews' role is the people he is surrounded by each day, consumers and fellow staff alike.
"I always look forward to every day; each day is like a brand new day for me. You have your happy moments and you have your sad moments but I get to share it all with my team. They're a great support, I couldn't ask for more.
"It's lovely that the residents know my name too. It's like having another family; we're here because their family can't always be here around the clock and we can provide more specialised care that perhaps can't be managed at home. I think we are contributing to creating a positive difference in their lives."
