Veteran PSW enjoys putting smiles on residents' faces

'I try to give 110 per cent for them when I'm here'

July 26, 2010 -- Natalie Hamilton

Through a gesture such as giving a resident a jar of her homemade strawberry jam, Rhonda Hughes strives to bring joy to the seniors she cares for at Frost Manor.

A personal support worker (PSW) and employee of the Lindsay long-term care home for 23 years, Hughes views each day as an opportunity to make residents happier.

"I try to give 110 per cent for them when I'm here," Hughes says.

Starting at Frost when she was 18, Hughes worked in the kitchen for about five months until a position opened on the floor. Being encouraged to apply, she went back to school to receive her health-care aide designation and hasn't looked back.

"I had know idea what I was getting myself into" at first, Hughes admits.

However, it wasn't long before she realized she was in the right position as it's the hands-on care aspect of her job she finds most fulfilling.

"I enjoy looking after them. I like the people," Hughes says.

Being part of Frost Manor for so many years, she has developed relationships with residents and their families, too. One resident in particular requests Hughes almost exclusively.

"A lot of people have never seen her smile or know that she has dimples, but she does."

The PSW also enjoys her contact with the residents' relatives, serving as the staff representative on Frost Manor's family council. Her grandfather was a resident of Frost for five years so she also served in the capacity as a relative at one time.

Hughes has completed her PSW training and has thought about going back to school to train to become a registered practical nurse but it doesn't fit into her schedule right now. Besides, Hughes enjoys what she's currently doing. "For all of (the residents) I think to myself, what do they have left in their lives but to enjoy the time they have. I like to try and add fun to their days and put a smile on their faces."

If you have feedback on this article, e-mail natalie(at)axiomnews.ca or call the newsroom at 800-294-0051.

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