Caregiver Interview Series: Chuck Desir

Here at Augusta, we want to feature caregivers who give their life and blood to the industry. This week, we want to showcase Chuck Desir who spent an hour with us. He’s also a family caregiver for his grandfather.

Chuck, tell us more about the type of work that you do

I’ve been working for a Senior Helpers agency for over 6 years now. I joined the agency after completing high school. I’m a certified Home Health Aide and I help seniors with their day-to-day activities, I do medication reminders, incontinence care, bathing, companionship. I also cook them, take them to doctor appointments, and walk them around the block outside.

You’re on a day off today: how do you like to spend your time?

Today, I asked for a day off before the new year in order to reset my mental state. I caught up with my chores, and went to the gym. On a day off, I usually go help my grand father, who’s 88 years old. I usually help him prep his meals for the next few days. I may also have to catch up on his laundry or refill his medication.

I have an apartment close to him and I usually help him daily.

If he is taken care of and I’m not too tired, I visit my parents as well. If I am really fatigued from the work week, I will just go home after checking on my grandfather and watch a movie.

I am usually running around 24/7 from clients’ houses to my grandfather’s house so when I do get a day off, I do my best to keep it focused on what I want to do.

Tell us more about a typical work day

I get to my clients’ house at around 8am. If the clients are still sleeping, I will organize their house, take trash out, prep their clothes and chair. Then, I usually cook for them and may help them eat. We usually hang out and chat. Sometimes, I will start a small project to keep them busy, such as organizing their closet or dusting items. Throughout the day, I keep writing notes in my booklet, which I turn to the next caregiver and office.

At the end of the day, I usually talk to the family caregivers and help them plan out activities they can do with their parents.

When I’m done working, I usually stop by my grand father’s to help him with any daily task that is remaining. My grandfather took care of me a lot when I was a child so I’m happy to return the favor.

How did you find your current employer?

I found my employer through the caregivers who have come to my grandfather's house. I applied online through their website. I actually tried to apply through facebook in the beginning but did not get any response.

What do you like about this employer?

My employer is very patient in listening to my problems with clients and coworkers. She doesn't act irrational and help resolve problems. She sometimes has activities for caregivers, such as Christmas and Thanksgiving parties.

Which top 3 apps do you use the most?

Instagram, Youtube, Apple Music. I also use Facebook to talk to my older family members in Africa.

Thank you Chuck! We’ll showcase other caregivers soon. Stay tuned.

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