Meet our October Employee of the Month!
We would like to introduce Carol Preece, our Seniors for Seniors’ Employee of the Month for October!
Carol was chosen because of her positivity and friendliness towards her clients. She always makes sure that she takes care of her clients to the best of her ability.
Recently, we asked Carol about her work experience as a Senior Companion. Here is what she had to share:
1. How did you hear about Seniors for Seniors and why did you decide to join the company?
I first heard about Seniors for Seniors long before I retired in 2014. They were featured on a radio program that focused on jobs after retirement. I thought, at the time, it was a great service and it would be interesting to work there part-time. After being retired for almost two years, I found I had a lot time on my hands as none of the volunteer opportunities I enquired about had really seemed to work out. I decided to check the Seniors for Seniors’ website. The driver/companion position appeals to me the most as it gives me the opportunity to go out and about, meet other seniors and help where I can.
2. What is your favorite companion/caregiver experience or story?
I think the best "adventure" I have had so far is driving a mother and daughter up north to their family cottage. I first picked up the mother and we took her suitcase etc. to my car and loaded it. Then we picked up her daughter and loaded her things. The drive was about two hours, but we stopped at a grocery store close to the cottage and picked up something for lunch as well. When we arrived at the cottage I helped the daughter unload everything and she gave me a tour. The cottage was on a small lake and was really quiet and peaceful. It has been in the family for over 50 years. I made my way back home and went back to the cottage two weeks later to take them back to Toronto. I think they were glad to go home!
3. How has Seniors for Seniors benefited your clients?
I know that for two of my regular clients our outings to get groceries is usually the only time they are actually out for the week and they look forward to it. I think they feel comfortable and safe with our drivers because they know that we have been vetted properly. They also feel they don't have to worry about how they will get to their medical appointments and they know they will get there on time.
4. How has being a Senior Companion enriched your life?
I have enjoyed meeting both the men and women on my drives. Everyone has a story and I really like listening as they are always quite interesting. I feel like I have become friends with some of my regulars and it is always great to see them. I really admire the way most of them have dealt with their situations in life with a positive attitude. And usually we have a laugh as well, so that helps make my day!
Want to learn more about being a Senior Companion? You can visit our employment page here.