Personal Support Workers (PSW) are a vital part of each residents’ care journey from the moment they arrive at a long-term care home. PSWs provide compassionate support and meaningful connections with residents throughout their care journey.
To help mark PSW Day in Ontario, celebrated every year on May 19, six Extendicare PSWs shared their personal experiences and insights into their roles, and how the residents they care for make a difference in their lives.
How PSWs support residents transitioning into long-term care
PSWs provide new residents with support to make the transition into long-term care as smooth as possible.
“My goal is to provide consistent emotional support, promote a sense of belonging, and help each resident feel safe, valued, and respected as they adjust to this new chapter in their lives,” says Lise, a Behavioural Supports PSW at Extendicare York in Sudbury, Ontario.
“I strive to encourage and engage residents in meaningful activities, help them connect with others, build new friendships, and participate in social interactions,” she adds.
PSWs provide personalized care for residents
Each resident has unique needs, and PSWs tailor the care they provide, embracing each person as the individual they are.
“Being a PSW is very special to me,” says Grace at Wyndham Manor in Oakville, Ontario. “Connecting with the group of residents I work with and finding ways to communicate with each individual based on their personalities always excites me.”
“I am glad to provide them with passionate daily activities that enhance their lives,” says Justina, a PSW from Extendicare Bay Ridges, in Pickering, Ontario.
Reflecting on her 20 years of service, Kathy, a PSW at Extendicare Kirkland Lake shares, “I have many stories that are special, but most of all would be when a resident speaks or laughs at my jokes or sings with me – that is the greatest feeling.”
PSW support throughout the resident care journey
PSWs also play an important role in supporting residents through palliative and end-of-life care with comfort, dignity, and compassion.
“Being a caregiver is making a positive difference in people’s lives, especially in the final chapter of their lives,” shares Arlene, a PSW at Extendicare Bay Ridges who described how she and her team supported a resident receiving palliative care who wanted to enjoy the view of the outdoors one last time. “In final moments, little things mean a lot.”
Alison from Extendicare Bay Ridges explains that being a PSW and supporting residents throughout their care journey is one of the most meaningful aspects of her role. She shares with residents, “They have had my utmost respect, honour and gratitude.”
Alison adds that it is an honour to care for residents and echoes a sentiment shared by many PSWs: “I truly am a proud PSW.”
Thank you to our PSWs for their compassion, dedication, and pride that they bring to residents and their homes every day.
