Heart and Dedication: HCAOA Talks with 2023 Caregiver of the Year Finalists

Last month, HCAOA held a unique roundtable discussion with the Top 16 Finalists for the 2023 Caregiver of the Year Award. This energetic and interactive discussion gave these exceptional caregivers an opportunity to dive deep into the ever-evolving home care industry, providing insight into why they are so passionate about being a caregiver, what recommendations they have to better the home care industry, and how to recruit and retain caregivers. Beyond the insightful discussions, they also relished the opportunity to connect with one another, bonding over their shared love for caregiving.

When HCAOA staff asked, ‘What advice would you give someone who wants to become a caregiver?” the Top 16 Finalists all agreed they don’t do it for the money. To become a caregiver, it must come from the heart. Patience and compassion are a requirement. Endam “Blossom” Ajeck from Assisting Hands in Villa Park, IL, said when working with clients, it’s important to let them know they are not alone; they have someone to walk the path with them. That illustrates how deeply the Top 16 Finalists care about each of their clients and shows why they were selected out of 500+ nominees.

Curious to learn more about these remarkable 16 finalists? Click here to explore their incredible stories and achievements. Congratulations to the 16 finalists on their incredible accomplishments! Stay tuned for the big announcement of the overall winner, which will take place during the HCAOA National Home Care Conference in Chicago on October 23.