Careers in Aging Week
This week is Careers in Aging Week – a national observation dedicated to celebrating the wide-ranging career opportunities in long term care and aging services.
By 2050, the U.S. will need between 5.7 million and 6.5 million nurses, nurse aides, home health, and personal care workers to care for long term care residents – so as demand increases, awareness and visibility of these important careers must, too.
Not only must we build up the long term care workforce, but we must also recognize the incredible sacrifice of those who currently serve our nation’s seniors, especially during this past year. Just like doctors and other medical professionals, they are our health care heroes for putting their lives on the line everyday to protect our nation’s most vulnerable.
Check out stories of health care heroes below and join us in spreading the word on social media with the hashtag #CareersinAging!
Holly Witkemper, Executive Director
Holly started her career as a young teenager volunteering at DCMH hospital on the Continuing Care floor with her grandma. She went on to a local nursing home as an activity assistant. From there, she took the Lacy Beyl course and became an activity director.
Learn more about Holly here →
David Gachanja, Certified Nursing Assistant
David is a CNA at Beaumont Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Worcester, MA and has been a CNA for over 20 years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, David graciously offered his home to his colleagues who were fearful of potentially spreading COVID-19 to their own family members.
Read David’s story here →
Mallorie Marin, Laundry Aide
In March of 2020, Brandon Oaks closed to visitors, just like retirement communities across the nation at the beginning of the pandemic. Brandon Oaks laundry aide Mallorie Marin wanted to help bring a little bit of happiness to the residents’ day. As a life-long artist, Marin turned to what she knew best – art.
Read Mallorie’s story here →
Anna Bell Terrill, Housekeeping
Anna Bell has worked at Wolfe County Health and Rehabilitation Center longer than any other employee — more than 30 years — and was one of the first employees hired to assist in the opening of the facility in 1990. Her primary position has been in housekeeping and laundry.
Read Anna Bell’s story here →
Tammy Chen, Activities Director
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tammy kept residents connected with family members and loved ones. She communicated regularly with families and helped to schedule meaningful virtual, indoor, outdoor, and compassionate care visits.
Read Tammy’s full story here →
Amanda Hochstetler, LPN and Clinical Coordinator
In the nearly 17 years since Amanda has been with Hyden Health and Rehab, she has built a rapport with her residents and fellow staff members. She is able to think outside of the box for difficult situations and develop customized solutions for those issues.
Read Amanda’s full story here →
