For Anju Mathew, aged care is all about connection, the kind that’s built slowly and deeply over time.
A Registered Nurse with more than two years of experience, Anju has spent the past six months working at Mercy Place Mount St. Joseph’s in Young.
Her decision to enter the aged care sector was sparked by a student placement during her nursing training.
“I was really struck by how strong the relationships were between staff and residents,” she said.
“It made me realise aged care isn’t just physical support, it’s also about emotional care and connection.”
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Anju’s typical day starts with a handover from the previous shift, followed by a full and varied schedule that includes assisting with meals, medications, mobility support and checking in with residents.
There’s also time spent regularly updating documentation and speaking with doctors and family members.
But at the heart of it all is making sure residents feel comfortable, safe and heard.
“What I enjoy most is getting to know the people I care for. Listening to their stories, learning from their lives, it makes the work so much more meaningful,” Anju said.
One moment that’s stayed with her is caring for a resident during his final days.
He was no longer able to respond, but Anju made sure he wasn’t alone.
“Sometimes I’d just sit with him and hold his hand,” she said.
“His family later thanked me for making those last days peaceful.
"That meant a lot.”
Supporting residents to live with dignity and joy is something Anju and her team take seriously.
For them, it’s the small things, knocking before entering a room, using someone’s preferred name, encouraging independence, that build trust and show respect.
“We focus on person-centred care," Anju said.
"It’s about really listening to people, and helping them feel they’re in control of their daily routine.”
She’s seen some important changes in the sector since starting out, especially in areas like dementia and palliative care and while she says there’s still a misconception that aged care is low-skill work, her experience tells a very different story.
“It takes knowledge, communication, empathy and professionalism," Anju said.
"There’s so much more to it than people realise.”
For Anju, Aged Care Employee Day is a time to reflect on the impact aged care workers make every day.
“It’s a moment to pause and recognise the work we do, to share stories and feel proud of the difference we’re making,” she said.
And for anyone considering a future in aged care, Anju is encouraging them to get into this area.
“It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply rewarding," she said.
"If you’re compassionate and patient, you’ll find a lot of purpose in this work.”
