Aged care workers are being celebrated today for the vital work they do.
Aged Care Employee Day – celebrated on August 7 – is now in its seventh year, and many are showing their appreciation with morning and afternoon teas, celebrations and heartfelt messages of thanks to the dedicated workers who care for their loved ones.
Lorraine Fauser is just one of Port Lincoln’s many aged care employees, and she has brought care and compassion to her role in the industry for more than 25 years.
Currently working as a paramedic aide, home support worker at Eyre and Far North Local Health Network with Country Health Connect, Lorraine started with contract work in 1997 in domiciliary care.
“In 2005, I received a full-time position as a paramedical aide (PMA) for domiciliary care – throughout the years I have seen many changes that have occurred along the way,” she recalled.
“Working in aged care brings me immense fulfillment as I shoulder the meaningful responsibility of caring for people and supporting their desire to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes for as long as possible.
“The aged care field demands a comprehensive understanding of the complex physical, emotional and social needs that come with ageing, from managing chronic conditions and medication regimens to providing emotional support and maintaining dignity throughout the care process.”
Lorraine said every day presented unique challenges that pushed her to grow professionally while simultaneously offering profound rewards when she witnessed the positive impact of her work on elderly clients’ quality of life.
“I deeply value the trust that families place in me as I help navigate the delicate balance between independence and necessary support, often serving as an advocate for my clients’ wishes and preferences,” she said.
“What drives me most passionately is my dedication to palliative care in the home setting, where I can provide compassionate, dignified support during life’s most vulnerable moments, ensuring that individuals receive the comfort and care they deserve while surrounded by their cherished memories and loved ones.
“The aged care sector continues to evolve with new approaches to person-centred care, and I’m committed to staying current with best practices that honour each individual’s unique life story, cultural background and personal values. This role allows me to make a genuine difference in people’s lives during times when that support matters most, and I find deep purpose in being trusted with such an important responsibility.”
Ageing Australia chief executive officer Tom Symondson said workers in aged care had gone above and beyond the call of duty in this past year and continued to face immense challenges in providing care and support for older Australians.
“Aged Care Employee Day has become an important date in our calendar and reminds us of the caring and professional work of our aged care superstars” he said.
“Their care is personal, selfless and often unsung, and makes a meaningful difference in the lives of older people every single day.
“We congratulate our aged care heroes for their dedication, their compassion and their resilience and we encourage the public to give them the recognition they are so deserving of.”
