Karen D.

I have always wanted to help people with special needs; perhaps because I had a sibling who was born with severe disabilities, so I know first hand the difficulties and challenges faced by these individuals and their families. There was very little help available when I was a child, so we relied mainly on our family for the help and support we needed. Back then, there were no respite services or in-home caregiver services. You took your chances on finding a trustworthy stranger (if you could afford one). Now, it is very gratifying to me to be able to help other people who are dealing with illness or disability in any way I can. I like to make jewelry and craft items, and I like to share those hobbies with my clients, if they're interested. Many of them seem to enjoy these activities and find them gratifying. I also love to read, and some clients enjoy being read to, which I also enjoy. I've been told I'm a good listener and a pretty good companion, as I can adapt to whatever my client is capable of and willing to do. I am experienced, caring, and am a retired social worker.

I show both empathy and compassion. I let let the person I am are caring for know that I care about the person and want to do what they can to help them. Most importantly, I have patient and understanding. It helps to sometimes put yourself in the other person's shoes and see what it might be like to ask people for help. I'm very reliable and trustworthy. I am prepared to go with the flow, being flexible, so that I continue to provide good home care, even if a rigid schedule isn't being followed.