You know that feeling you get when you reach the age where you can give a little something back to your parents after all they gave to raise you? That pride. That joy. That sense of fulfillment that you did something truly meaningful to “give back” to the one that gave everything for you? That is the feeling I get every day as a JEVS at Home Caregiver. If you’re wondering, no, I don’t care for my parents as a JAH Caregiver – but caring for my father IS where this wonderful journey all started. After caring for him for years, I learned through JEVS at Home that I could be certified in doing so, and get paid for it.

The Citrons and I soon discovered that caring in a JEVS at Home environment is a two-way street! I provide the Citrons with whatever they need – from personal hygiene, to a walking companion, to housecleaning and laundry and more. The Citrons provide ME with that pride and joy and fulfillment I referred to at the top of this story. There are no words to explain the way my heart feels when I engage them in telling a story about their youth and see that sparkle in their eyes. Or when I see that oh-so subtle grin of appreciation after helping them in the bathroom. In these moments I know that I am keeping them alive – not just in body, but in soul. In these moments I know that I have kept them together as a couple. I know that I have given their family peace of mind. And I know that I have given Mr. and Mrs. Citron the dignity and independence they dreaded losing the moment they learned of their illnesses.

I’ve recommended JEVS at Home as an option to many people looking to advance or change their line of work – nieces, my son, their girlfriends. But I insist that anyone considering this line of work first examines their hearts and makes sure they have a true and unwavering love for seniors. That love is the foundation of JEVS at Home service. All of us caregivers do it not for the money, not because we have to – but because we want to and, in fact, we love to!