Work Experience

Work Experience is a very daunting time for students, especially if you are someone who is shy and unsure of what area of work you want to experience. I chose to do my work experience in an Aged Care home. I figured that not many people my age would think twice about gaining community experience with the elderly. As an aging population, we see many Aged Care homes getting built and we drive past not knowing what is happening inside. 

For one week, I got to experience what goes on inside one of those homes. Bupa Aged Care in Croydon was kind enough to give me the opportunity to interact, engage and listen to these vulnerable elderly people. At Bupa, I worked alongside the Recreational Lifestyle team where I helped assist the residents with daily activities which involved some arts and crafts, games, entertainment, quizzes, general discussions, and exercise groups across all sections of the home. When I was there, the home was preparing for a “Christmas in July” themed month and I could see how happy and excited the residents were in preparing for the celebration. I have to say that every resident enjoys Bingo. I guess that is their only opportunity to gamble but with chocolates, and Friday is always happy hour. 

During my time at Bupa, I noticed that many of the residents rely a lot on the staff. While many do have families coming in to visit them, many do not, and it can be quite a lonely place if the staff were not there to help make a difference in their lives. I got to speak to many of the residents when I was waiting for the Recreational Officer, and I was told stories from their early days. Everyone is an individual and everyone has their own unique story. They expressed that they loved having a young person at the home and they were all very grateful for the week I had spent with them. I have learnt a lot whilst working at Bupa. I learnt the importance of communication, being included, being loved, and also being accepted.

 William Sieng, Year 10