I will gently share the world of caregiving, which is more than just 'tough'

Introduction

First, why did I decide to work in caregiving? Before doing this job, I was a freelancer. While working various part-time jobs, I was looking for something that would allow me to earn a qualification while working, and that is when I found the caregiving profession.
When I first started working, I was able to qualify to take the national exam after three years of practical experience, so I decided to take on the challenge.
It has been over 10 years since I started working in caregiving, and I would like to share some of my various experiences and hardships, so I hope you will read this.
When people hear the words 'caregiving job,' the first thing that comes to mind for many is that it sounds 'tough'.
It is true that there are times when it is physically and mentally demanding.
However, once you stand on the front lines, you realize that there are 'various aspects' that simply cannot be described by that word alone.

1. The strength of people hidden behind the hardships

When I see a user taking their time to stand up slowly.
I am sometimes moved by the effort and strength of will put into that single step.
'You were able to do this much today.'
When I say that to them, they smile shyly.
That smile has the power to blow away any fatigue in an instant.
Caregiving is called a 'job of supporting,' but in reality, it might be us who are being supported.

2. Focus on what they can do, rather than what they cannot

In the field, it is easy to focus on what people can no longer do.
However, if you look for them, you will always find things that the users 'can do'.
- They were able to hold a cup by themselves
- They were able to express their feelings in their own words
- They were able to walk a little further than yesterday
Being able to rejoice in those small changes together is the real thrill of the caregiving job.
When you shine a light on what they 'can do,' the expressions of the users and the feelings of the staff involved naturally become brighter.

3. 'Individuality' created by relationships

Caregiving cannot be done with technology alone.
What is important is what kind of relationship you can build with the person in front of you.
For example, someone who is usually quiet might suddenly talk about memories from the past.
When I touch upon those words, I realize, 'I am being allowed to touch a part of this person's life.'
Caregiving is not a 'task,' but a job built on the 'accumulation of relationships.'

4. The certain sense of fulfillment found within the hardships

Of course, there are worries and conflicts in the caregiving field.
There are days when things do not go as planned, and moments when I feel like giving up.
Even so, the reason I can continue is because of:
'Thank you'
'I'm glad you were here'
Those words continue to quietly light a fire deep in my heart.
In the caregiving job, hardship and fulfillment are always side by side.
It is a complex, yet very rich world that cannot be described by either one alone.

5. Conclusion

When I work in caregiving, I encounter not only people's weaknesses but also their strengths.
And I realize that while I intended to be the one providing support, I am the one being supported before I know it.
It cannot be described by just 'tough'.
I want to continue to verify the meaning of those words in the field from now on.