Jennifer’s Story

Help at Home prides itself on long lasting caregiver/client relationships. The average relationship is 4 years!  

But only a few client relationships can last 30 years! Jennifer, a caregiver in Ohio, has been working with the same client since the early 90s, when the client was a child with developmental disabilities.  The client’s family was told by doctors that she might never be able to walk or eat by mouth. But now, as an adult, the client does both! 

 “I’ve seen her show so much progress through the years…” Jennifer said. “She’s a little miracle …  And it’s been such a joy to watch her grow through the years and just see her progress and blossom. It’s just been a joy to see that, and it’s still a joy every day.” 

Jennifer had previously worked in a hospital, but she found that it was more satisfying to work with clients in their home.  

“In the hospital, you know, I worked 12-hour shifts and being on the surgical floor … was very demanding, so it was a nice change to be able to focus all of my attention on one patient and be able to give them all the care they needed. And it was just such a breath of fresh air to be able to experience that.” 

Sometimes she is able to walk with her client to a nearby pond, where the client feeds the geese and watches the ducks. At other times, she helps her client develop fine motor skills through crafts and art projects. “It’s very peaceful and you can have that quality time.” 

Jennifer said she recommends caregiving as a career. “I would say it’s very fulfilling… you get to experience the one-on-one care with your clients, and that establishes a special bond.”