Senior Caregiver shares his motivation for a career in healthcare

For NZTC Level 4 student, Harry Patel, his own experience caring for an elderly family member first inspired him to become a caregiver.

“I come from a family where we look after our elders. Caring for my grandma inspired me to become a caregiver. I cared for her for years and through that experience, I learned that I'm passionate about helping people and improving the daily lives of those in need of care.”

He says while it was challenging work, seeing his grandmother’s quality of life improve made it worthwhile and motivated him to pursue a career in healthcare.

“Due to this experience, I thought I would love to apply my skills to help make the same impact in healthcare organisations and be an advocate for older people.”

Currently studying the New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Support) (Level 4) and working as a Senior Caregiver at Bupa Eventhorpe Rest Home and Hospital in Hamilton, Patel enjoys looking after the residents and helping them carry out their daily routines.

He says his colleague referred him to NZTC when he was seeking a flexible study program that would help further his career, whilst allowing him to work full-time.

“It was the perfect opportunity for me to improve my knowledge, skills and passion for caregiving along with working full-time. Also, I loved the online studies as assessments could be done at your own pace without stressing about cancelling work for the sake of attending the class.”

While Patel has been working in the healthcare sector for six years, he says his studies with the college have refreshed him and allowed him to gain further knowledge and insights about caregiving.

“NZTC helped me realise that a Healthcare Assistant can do a lot of important things and not just bedside care only. I became my client’s voice and advocate on their behalf.

“My studies helped me create a good family-like bond with my residents and helped me to know and understand the importance of having a quality of life.”

Reflecting on the current Omicron outbreak and its challenges for his sector caring for senior residents, he says his team continue to work together to ensure safe outcomes.

“We work as a team to ensure everyone’s safety, and provide care and love to our residents making them feel safe.” Patel shares he would like to pursue a Bachelor of Nursing after completing his current study to further develop his career in healthcare.