When Garry Evans decided to pursue a drastic career change, he never thought the rewards would be so great.
The Melton resident had worked in the security industry for 25 years when he took on the challenge of studying and working in aged care with Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services. And he hasn’t looked back.
“I decided I’d rather be doing something I liked . . . it’s important to be doing that and not what I have to do,” he said.
After caring for his late mother for many years, Mr Evans knew he had what it takes to care for the elderly and, he hoped, make a difference in their lives.
“If I can put a smile on someone’s face or if someone hasn’t smiled for two days and they smile when I come past, it’s so rewarding for me,” he said.
“Just holding their hand or singing a song to them can make all the difference.
“If someone is prepared to care then they’ll respond. I enjoy going to work now and I enjoy talking about it.”
Mr Evans, 60, encouraged others to take up the challenge and look into further study.
“You can make a worthwhile contribution to the community, but you really need to evaluate if it’s right for you,” he said.
“You have to remember the overall care of these people [in aged care] is paramount and their dignity is the most important thing. You have to think what you’d find important if you were being cared for.”
For details visit www.djerriwarrh.org.au.
