As rewarding as it gets

While hers is not always the easiest job, Glanville Village enrolled nurse team leader Denise Appleby can’t imagine doing anything else.

“We need people who can help give others the identity and care which gives them pride in themselves, even at a point in life when things change,” she said.

“The care we give people reassures them, and they count you as part of their family within no time.

“It can be challenging, it can be rewarding ... but it’s never been boring.”

Nurse Tara Elso and healthcare worker Jorja Smith agree.

Ms Murphy wasn’t always set on a career in aged care, but quickly fell in love with the work and her Glanville Village co-workers.

“The staff are great,” she said.

“The teamwork, the communication you have with residents, just getting to know them, it’s all great.

“It’s just fun working with them and with the team here.”

Ms Elso also highlighted the village’s camaraderie.

“There are days that are harder than others, but being able to lean on each other helps us get through them,” she said.

“It’s a really rewarding job, residents might see us more than their family, so you make real connections ... (and) you go home knowing you’ve had a positive impact on someone’s day.”

The three women have a simple message for anyone considering a career in aged care: take the leap.

“I encourage anyone thinking about it to give it a go,” Ms Appleby said.

“There are so many things you see where you can provide information which helps determine a person’s care progress or the way a person can get over an illness.

“There are so many little things which can brighten your day and brighten theirs.

“It’s a really good job because you do feel you’ve made a difference.”

To find out more or apply for a position, visit erh.org.au/careers