Salina binti Baharudin, Care Professional, spoke to @LatestMalaysia on her missed opportunities that brought her to achieve something laudable and noble.
She is one of the Malaysians who care for the needy and who goes around assisting them to feel more comfortable, live with a peaceful mind and be as healthy as they can.
We asked Salina a few questions and here are the answers we got from her.
What is the role of Homage Care Professionals? Can you tell us more?
As a Homage Care Professional, I go to the care recipients’ houses to assist with the activities of daily living such as – eating, bathing, getting dressed, turning for bedridden patients, toileting, transferring and so on. I help family members with their loved ones when they are not able to be there physically.
What motivated or inspired you to do such a noble profession?
I have unattainable ambitions, which is to become a trained nurse. From there, I took steps to become a nursing aide, and now, I am living my dream to care for others. I started out at the bottom and learned how to treat patients properly. The passion and love for this career motivate me to be the best version of myself every day.
For this Hari Raya, what are you suggesting to families who need the services your organisation provides?
Hari Raya Aidil Fitri is a celebration of victory for those who fast. For families who need services from us, we can help facilitate care to give them peace of mind especially when families are busy with preparations from food to the household, and most importantly, prepare senior loved ones mentally, physically and emotionally to celebrate the special occasion.
“We should break the stigma of seeking caregiving services”. Can you elaborate on these stigmas?
We can’t always be there for our loved ones. If we are travelling, working long hours, or frequently unavailable due to pressing obligations, it might not always be possible to provide the care and attention they need. Their needs must be met as well, even if this means finding trusted companions or caregivers outside the family circle who can fill that place so there is no need to be ashamed to hired caregivers.
Personally, what do you have to tell the readers about your experience in this field?
I have gained lots of experiences throughout being a caregiver. Being immersed in the hearts of care recipients, their wishes to live a healthy life that we can play a role in and their recovery from the illness they face gives me fulfilment as a caregiver.
It has made me become more understanding toward people, especially the elderly because we will all grow old eventually one day. Caregiving as a career is about the journey and that has taught me to be more patient and improve my medical knowledge.
As a caregiver with Homage, I was able to have time flexibility in my personal life caring for my late mother as well* and being able to spend her last moments together is one of the most valuable experiences ingrained in my heart.
*Salina’s mother succumbed to cancer last week
– Our condolences to Salina.
Why should people in need get professional and proper care? What is your message to the folks out there?
By leaving the care of your loved ones to the professionals to provide proper care, not only do you facilitate their daily lives and provide comfort, but you also give them back their dignity in ensuring they are in control of their health. So to people out there, I believe if you love your parents enough you will do your best to provide just as they have sacrificed for you when you were growing up.
This interview is part of @LatestMalaysia’s long-form articles and is our way of saying thank you to Malaysians who strive to make society better. It is our CSR!
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