Alumni Spotlight

The compassionate care of HCA helps residents feel at home in long-term care facilities

A modern retirement and long-term care facility, Masterpiece Southland Meadows features an abundance of natural light streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows, a dining room and lounge reminiscent of a luxury resort, and gathering spaces for classes, movie nights, and spiritual practices that promote a sense of community. 

But beyond the physical spaces, the heart of the operations is a devoted healthcare team ensuring top-quality care for residents. “We offer everything from independent living with homecare services to full assistance for those who require 24/7 care,” says Krista Worobec, director of care at Masterpiece and nursing alumna of MHC. “Our team is one big wheel and spoke, every piece needing to be aligned. From health care aides and licensed practical nurses to dieticians and social workers, all are helping to make the wheel spin.”  

The demand for health care aides outpaces the current supply

According to Krista, health care aides account for half of all staff at Masterpiece and play a critical part within their health care team. “Demand for these professionals is higher than ever with so many positions available throughout Medicine Hat and provincially. This is due to several professionals retiring, families wanting to stay home with their kids, or people reskilling. We feel that void, as health care aides are versatile and a huge part of our residents' lives.”

Krista describes the health care aide role as a jack-of-all-trades. She explains that beyond basic care practices like medication assistance, vital sign recording, and helping with day-to-day mobility, hygiene, and grooming, health care aides become like family to the residents. They take that extra time to have a coffee or play a game with residents and are there with them to celebrate the good days and provide support on the hard ones.

“I've witnessed the love, attention, and care that the health care aides provide our residents' at their end of life. It’s hard to see someone at that stage, but it warms my soul to see an aide sitting beside someone, holding their hand, brushing their hair, and telling them it’s going to be okay. When the family can’t be there, our staff step up and be that person.”

She adds that, “These residents are our grandparents too. We cry, we laugh, we do everything with them, and so providing that little extra at their last moment is something that a lot of aides hold near and dear to their hearts.”

Director emphasizes the positive aspects of the working environment for health care aides

Krista acknowledges there are misconceptions about health care aides being unappreciated but emphasizes that professionals in this field quickly realize just how important they are to the team.

“Days can be hard. But when that resident asks for a hug, says thank you for picking out their favorite outfit, or appreciates you helping them Skype their grandchild, those moments make up for the bad days and keep us all coming back every time.”

Krista finds that successful aides have traits like compassion, empathy, drive, and a strong work ethic. Being an attentive listener and attuned to others are also benefits, while having the ability to work within a team is a must. 

“As a health care aide, you are part of a larger healthcare team, so being a good team player and being able to communicate, problem solve, and think critically will benefit your success,” she explains. 

For those unsure of whether being a health care aide is right for them, Krista recommends volunteering.

“It’s a great way to expose yourself to what the environment is like in a safe way. You’re not committing to anything, but you can see if it’s something you will enjoy. We get a lot of young students who want to become health care aides because they start working with our recreational team and realize that it surpasses their expectations.”

Krista notes there are also misconceptions about long-term care facilities but says the environment is much more engaging, rewarding, and fun than people may imagine. With live music, happy hours, and lived experiences to share, there is lots of activity happening at Masterpiece Southland Meadows. 

“We have residents that have fought in wars, traveled to various places, and come with amazing stories. If you have curiosity, and want to learn, it’s a great place to broaden your horizons.”

Personalized career paths: Health care aides can customize their experiences in the field

Career options are not limited to long-term care facilities, with different avenues and flexibility available to health care aides. 

“You can choose to work in a hospital setting by joining a public operation such as Alberta Health Service. Alternatively, you can work in someone's residence by doing home care practice. There is pediatrics, senior care, and respite,” explains Krista.

“If someone just had twins, you could be the person to go into their home and help mom and dad. If a person was recently diagnosed with dementia and is having difficulty getting groceries, HCAs can provide respite care and visit with them so their loved ones can do this safely. The type of care you provide will depend on your areas of interest and the population you feel comfortable working with."

Krista's passion for people-centered care is evident in how she talks about the opportunities, her staff, and the healthcare profession. She encourages people to start where they are comfortable, whether it's volunteering or taking the health care aide certificate. 

The health care aide certificate is an eight-month program offered at MHC, with a winter and fall intake. There has been an announcement about a bursary program that provides learners with funding of up to $9,000.

If you are interested in learning more, visit www.mhc.ab.ca/HCA.