Greg Gorton Named 2021 Caregiver of the Year

​HCAOA announced this week that Greg Gorton of Right at Home in Grand Blanc, Michigan is the 2021 Caregiver of the Year. Gorton was selected as the top home caregiver in the country from nearly 250 nominees from 41 states. Gorton will be recognized Wednesday at a special event at the Michigan State Capitol.

“Health care is coming home, and our caregivers are on the front lines of this revolution,” said Vicki Hoak, HCAOA Executive Director. “Greg Gorton and the nearly 250 nominees for this national caregiver award epitomize the quality care that can be provided in people’s own homes, enabling them to live as independently as possible. For too long, home care aides have been undervalued and this misconception must stop. This program is just one way the home care industry can recognize the important work that home care aides do every day. 
 
“The COVID-19 pandemic pushed home care into the spotlight as a viable option for older Americans who need some help and want to age in their own homes. Home care aides provide care and support in the homes of seniors and people with disabilities that keep them safe and healthy at home,” she added. “This is not an easy job, but they approach it with compassion, grace, and dedication to the clients they serve. We owe them a debt of gratitude.”
 
At a time when the average turnover rate for home caregivers is 65%, Gorton has been a loyal caregiver with Right at Home in Grand Blanc, Michigan for 17 years. Described by his agency as a “walking encyclopedia,” Gorton is knowledgeable and puts his clients and families at ease, creating a bond easily with them. A natural caregiver who cares for his mother currently and his father before he passed away, Gorton worked for a brief stint as a musician on a cruise ship, and often uses music to connect with his clients and soothe them.
 
“Congratulations to Greg Gorton for being recognized as the HCAOA National Caregiver of the Year. Greg’s kindness, passion, and commitment to caring are evident in every interaction he has with his clients and their families,” said Right at Home CEO Brian Petranick, a member of the HCAOA Board of Directors. “Greg personifies the qualities and characteristics of an ideal caregiver, which is why this recognition is so fitting. However, like so many other caregivers who provide outstanding care to their clients, Greg never seeks out recognition or accolades. Instead, his commitment is always with the purest of intentions, which is to simply help others to the best of his abilities. The entire Right at Home global network, especially his home location in Flint, Michigan, is honored and proud to have Greg represent our brand. Greg truly represents the best of the best.”
 
“We are so proud of Greg and the exceptional care he provides our clients,” said Scott Hill, President, Right at Home, Grand Blanc. “We have always felt that we have the best staff anywhere, and to have this type of recognition at a national level demonstrates that.”