Friday 21 February is National Caregivers Day, and a chance to celebrate the incredible mahi our caregivers do every day at BVAC NZ.
We know it takes a special person to do this role, so who better to share their insights than Whakanui Hauora award winner and caregiver, Arun Kollassery from Accadia Manor.
His glowing award nomination said:
“Arun’s approach to knowing and understanding residents has been appreciated, and feedback on how excellent he is as a caregiver continues regularly. He is a person that will question and ensure that residents are receiving the best care and support.
Arun has paved the way for others at Accadia in particular, with the caregiving industry being predominantly female, acting as a great role model for other young men who wish to pursue caregiving roles.”
- Arun, when did you start working at Bupa?
I started as a kitchen hand in March 2022. That gave me the chance to serve food, talk to the residents and slowly bond with them. A year later I got the opportunity I really wanted, and that was to be a caregiver. - What do you enjoy most about being a caregiver?
I’m from India and I miss my parents a lot, but working in care helps me feel like I’m surrounded by family. After all, it’s like we’re all living together in one big home. Even after my shift is over, I enjoy spending time with our residents, chatting and playing jigsaw puzzles. - What are the challenges you face every day?
When I started as a carer, it was initially challenging to deal with illnesses and learning to handle all types of situations. But I quickly learnt that it’s important to be kind and if you can’t do something, you must ask for help. Caring for the elderly at this level is not easy, but the way I see it, each person is unique, and we should have empathy and want to help them. - How did you feel winning a Whakanui Hauora award?
It was amazing to be recognised but it’s not only my achievement, it’s thanks to my entire team, and my GM Angela Preston’s support. My residents also helped me learn and grow. Moving to morning shifts (instead of just nights) made a huge difference, as I got to interact with residents and their families and really learn about them. - At one point, I was the only male caregiver at Accadia, and I knew that was another hurdle to overcome. But I focussed on my job, and I pushed through until everyone began to trust me….and then they began to ask for me!
- If you had one piece of advice on caring for our residents, what would that be?
Everyone should be kind, spend time with our residents and really listen to their needs. Our residents at Accadia all refer to me by name now, and that’s how I know I’m doing something right!
Thank you to Arun and all our caregivers for everything you do. Wishing you a wonderful day of recognition and gratitude this coming National Caregivers Day.
