After 40 years in the healthcare profession, Kate Herron could have decided just to enjoy her retirement. Instead the former nurse started a new career as a care professional with Home Instead Down and Lisburn, in Northern Ireland. “My daughters say I’m good at retiring but not very good at staying retired!” she says. “But it’s such a rewarding job. I get a lot of job satisfaction out of helping people.”
Over the past seven years, Herron has worked with more than 170 clients, providing about 10,000 hours of care. Some may need help with personal care, eating and support overnight. Others need companionship, help with household chores and assistance travelling to medical appointments. She’s currently providing live-in care to Margaret who has advanced dementia. Herron is with her for 24 hours a day, alternating shifts with another colleague. The pair take care of Margaret’s every need. “Even though Margaret doesn’t recognise us any more, she knows she’s safe,” Herron says. “I call her Lady Margaret and say I’m her lady in waiting. It used to make her giggle. Sometimes I still get that glimmer again. It’s often the simple things you do for someone that can have the biggest impact.”
