Being a good caregiver means becoming an important part of someone’s world. Audra Archambeau has been a caregiver with Comfort Keepers for five years and says it’s the most rewarding job she has ever had.
“I look forward to going to work every day because my clients look forward to seeing me,” she says.
“When people live alone, having someone new in their home can be a difficult change to accept, but the more you get to know the client and find out what they like to do and incorporate those things in their day, the transition is much smoother,” she says.
One of her clients lives by a lake and loved riding around in a golf cart near the water. When he wasn’t able to do it anymore, Audra helped him get on the cart and enjoy the lake once again, with her by his side.
Another client who can’t drive any longer will accompany Audra on errands and scenic drives. And when home, they love to play card games together.
An artist lost her abilities to paint, but Audra helped her reconnect with her talent by bringing over art supplies and painting pictures together.
“Even if they can’t function exactly how they used to, I find the things they love to do and find a way to help them still do it,” she says.
Comfort Keepers’ caregivers assist with all non-medical needs such as light housekeeping, preparing meals, companionship, bathing, grooming, mobility assistance, bathroom needs, laundry, transportation to appointments, shopping and events and more.
Lucretia Ristin, co-owner with Mark Podemski of Comfort Keepers, 4855 E. State St., says although most people serviced by Comfort Keepers have at least one medical condition, others seek out help just because they are tired and can’t handle the workload any longer, or because they are lonely, which can lead to depression and a lack of interest in self-care.
Caregivers can work part-time or full-time and must pass an extensive background check, drug test, and show they are caring and empathetic individuals, Ristin says.
For more information on hiring or becoming a caregiver, go to comfortkeepers.com or call (815) 229-9100. ❚