Our Caregivers are the heart of our communities in so many ways. They offer that extra peace of mind for you or your loved one, and step in to care for them like family. They work within our communities to provide the perfect balance of care and support so your loved one can enjoy their independence while you rest assured knowing care is always on hand when they need it most. From medication management to assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (like bathing, dressing, or toileting), our caregivers assist with a range of care options depending on our residents needs.
Today we take the time to say thank you to our caregivers across all our communities for their compassion, care, and dedication to the residents in their communities. Your hard work, patience, compassion and care are what make our communities truly special.
Each member of our care staff plays an integral role in creating a secure, comforting and supportive environment for our residents and in turn, their loved ones. These special team members have some of the biggest hearts, hardest working mentalities and can-do attitudes.
We asked some of our caregivers to share what caring for seniors means to them.
Chris Abuan – Avila Senior Living at Downtown SLO
What made you want to become a caregiver?
I’ve always been interested in assisting/helping the elderly. I’ve been volunteering since high school.
How long have you been a caregiver?
I’ve been a caregiver for almost 3 years now, and worked at Avila Senior Living for the same amount of time.
What do you think is the most important quality for a caregiver to have?
I would probably say patience because it goes a long way.
What is your favorite thing about being a caregiver in a senior living community?
My favorite thing about being a caregiver is that we try to encourage independence as much as possible, but provide assistance when needed.
What has been the most rewarding moment in your caregiver career?
It always feels rewarding whenever we caregivers get recognized for the assigned duties we have.
John Gaza, Pacifica Senior Living Mission Villa
What made you want to become a caregiver?
My grandparents inspired me to become a caregiver. Having been close to them my entire life, I am passionate about taking care of our senior population.
How long have you been a caregiver?
I have been a caregiver with Pacifica Senior Living Mission Villa for 12 years.
What do you think is the most important quality for a caregiver to have?
The most important quality for any caregiver to have is patience, and to consider each resident as if they were your own family members.
What is your favorite thing about being a caregiver in a senior living community?
My favorite thing about being a caregiver is knowing the families and residents are satisfied with the care I provide for them.
What has been the most rewarding moment in your caregiver career.
The most rewarding moment in my career continues to be encouraging my residents and giving hope for them to thrive each day. 
Bea, Alta Vista Senior Living
What made you want to become a caregiver?
I wanted to gain bedside care experience.
How long have you been a caregiver?
I have been a caregiver for 3 years.
What do you think is the most important quality for a caregiver to have?
Patience, understanding and empathy.
What is your favorite thing about being a caregiver in a senior living community?
My sweet residents.
What has been the most rewarding moment in your caregiver career?
Making fruitful relationships with my residents and coworkers.
Some of our other team members wanted to shine a light on their fellow team members for all they do.
Alma, Alta Vista Senior Living.
Alma has been working at Alta Vista for 4 years.
She stands out for her kindness and great personality.
She’s bright, bubbly, and loving. Alma gives 100% each day. She’s always on top of her tasks and is dependable.
Brenda, Pacifica Senior Living Menifee
Brenda is not only compassionate but so hands on with every single resident. She has gone above and beyond to provide a wig or hat for a female resident who didn’t have hair, she brings comfort for the families and offers great leadership. 
What made you want to become a caregiver?
Taking care of my grandma.
How long have you been a caregiver
I have been a caregiver for 6 years
What do you think is the most important quality for a caregiver to have?
Compassion.
What is your favorite thing about being a caregiver?
Getting to know each resident’s story.
What has been the most rewarding moment in your caregiver career?
Seeing my residents thrive. 
Want to learn more about our senior living communities?
Reach out to us, give us a call, or schedule a personalized tour.
Our friendly staff is on hand to answer any questions or show you around our community. Whether you are looking for Independent Living, Assisted Living, or Memory Care options for yourself or a loved one, our wonderful caregivers and team members create the perfect balance of freedom and support, so you can live each day as you please know assistance is on hand when you need it. 
