Hi, my name is Joanne. I live in Claremont, CA. And I have been a caregiver for four years. 

How did you get into caregiving?
I became a caregiver because of my grandmother. When I was a child, my grandmother took care of me while my parents were at work. As she grew older, she needed help with her daily living activities and her personal hygiene. I assist my grandmother with bathing, cleaning, toileting, gardening, eating, shower, so many other activities. 

What advice would you provide to a new caregiver?
My advice to a new caregiver would be to be patient, kind, sensitive. These three qualities are so important because most of the clients that I faced in my four years as a caregiver were not able to talk, were not able to express themselves. And so I really have to say that extra attention and really be aware of their needs.

Who is one of your most memorable clients?
A client I will never forget is Dorothy. Dorothy was a warm and wonderful elderly lady. And she loved to play cards, to garden, to hosts her friends, and to watch TV. She was very funny and very kind. I really loved walking with Dorothy. And I assisted her with her daily living activities and personal hygiene.