Blog - August 6, 2026
The People Behind Aged Care: Helen’s heart for helping
For Community Support Worker Helen, aged care is about much more than helping with household tasks.
It’s about supporting older people to remain independent, connected and living in the home and community they love.
“It never feels like a job. It feels like walking into my mum’s or my auntie’s house and asking, ‘What have you got to do today?'” Helen said.
Based in Swan Hill, Helen is one of many aged care workers helping local seniors with practical assistance including cleaning, meal preparation, personal care, shopping and social support.
But it’s the relationships she builds that Helen says are just as important and make the role so rewarding.
“When I walk in, we’ll sit down, have a cup of tea and a chat. They share their life stories, and I learn so much from them,” she said.
Pictured: Helen with client May.
Clients like 93-year-old May, who is determined to remain in her own home for as long as possible.
“I never want to go into a nursing home. I want to stay in my own home,” May said.
After health challenges, including a hospital stay, remaining independent became even more important to her. With family living elsewhere and everyday tasks becoming more challenging, regular support from Helen offers practical assistance and companionship.
“Social support means a lot to me. Sometimes I don’t have anyone to speak to,” May said.
“Helen is such a lovely person, and we get along so well. Sometimes we bake together and I teach her things and she teaches me things.”
For May, it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference.
“My phone shut off the other day, and Helen came and knew exactly what the solution was,” she said.
Helen said supporting older people was about recognising the contribution they have made to their families and communities throughout their lives.
“I tell them, we’re not giving you something for nothing. We’re giving back what you’ve already given to the community,” she said.
“My job is like paying it forward. I’m taking care of you today, and someday somebody will take care of me.”
It’s a philosophy that supports people like May continue to live life they choose, surrounded by familiarity, memories, and the community they know and love.
Great aged care isn’t just about what is done. It’s about who is doing it and how they make you feel. At Your Place, Your Pace.
To find out how Intereach can support you or your loved one, visit https://www.intereach.com.au/service/aged-care-services/ or call 1300 488 226.
If you would like to find out more about aged care services and the ways that Intereach can help you and your loved ones, give us a call on 1300 488 226, drop into one of our offices, or visit our website at www.intereach.com.au. Reach out to Intereach today!
Contact the Intereach Aged Care team here
Share
