Co-ordinator, Alzheimer Day and Respite Care programs, Dixon Hall
Social Service Worker – Gerontology
I was a teenager when my granny developed Alzheimer’s disease. Back then, we were unaware of the condition and why granny did the things she did. More than once, she ran away from home. Ironically, the year she passed away was the year I graduated from Seneca. She finished her work on earth as I was about to start my career.
I loved the program at Seneca. I was like a sponge absorbing all the information. One of the most key experiences for me was the field work practicum, which allowed me to apply the theory I learned in class. Everything I learned at Seneca, I’ve experienced in my years of work. The program has not only prepared me in establishing my livelihood, but it equipped me in supporting my own parents as they age.
I enjoy having one-to-one interactions with our program members and their families. I enjoy going to their homes, collecting data on their history and establishing the rapport and trust. My contact with caregivers is at a point when they are reaching burnout. In some cases, they just need a listener. I love seeing the members daily. Some of them will not remember my name, but they’ll associate my face as someone they recognize and trust. And bringing a smile of recognition to their face brings me joy.