Shawn Williams, a dedicated nursing assistant from New Orleans, has spent over 33 years caring for elderly patients, building lasting relationships and gaining invaluable wisdom along the way. Her career began at a young age, and although she initially approached her role with reluctance, she soon discovered a deep passion for working with seniors.
Currently employed at PACE GNO, a Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly sponsored by Catholic Charities, Williams engages with elderly participants in a nurturing environment. The program offers a variety of daily activities, including music performances, field trips, and wellness care. Despite having been with PACE for only 18 months, Williams feels a strong connection to her role and the community she serves.
Williams reflects on her extensive experience in elderly care, stating, “The reward of working with these seniors is what really keeps me going.” She emphasizes the joy of interacting with older individuals, who she describes as having a unique sense of humor and a love for life. “They are just an older version of us,” Williams notes. Her commitment to this field stems from her belief that the relationships formed with seniors provide profound benefits, both for her and for them.
Building Connections Through Empathy
One of the key philosophies guiding Williams’ work is the L.O.L. method, which stands for listen, observe, and learn. She explains how this approach has helped her build strong rapport with her patients. “They have a lot to say. They want you to listen to them,” she says. By actively engaging with her patients, Williams has been able to encourage their independence and assist them in achieving tasks they once thought impossible.
Williams draws on her personal experiences with her grandmother, who played an important role in her upbringing. These formative moments taught her the values of humility and respect, which she now applies in her interactions with elderly patients. “Can you imagine having a job where you’re going to work with the love of a grandmother or a grandfather? That’s the best job in the world,” she asserts.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Throughout her career, Williams has collected a wealth of wisdom from her elderly friends. She shares insights on everyday topics, from cooking to financial management, often exchanging recipes and life lessons. “They have taught me it’s nice to be important, but it’s important to be nice,” she explains. This philosophy resonates deeply with her daily interactions, where she strives to foster a positive and respectful environment.
Williams highlights the importance of patience and understanding, emphasizing that working with seniors has taught her not to rush through life. “I’ve learned not to be quick to anger while working with my patients,” she says. The relationships she cultivates are rooted in unconditional love and mutual respect, allowing her to walk away each day feeling fulfilled and purposeful.
As she reflects on her journey, Williams expresses gratitude for the opportunity to work in a field that continuously enriches her life. “The good part about it is that it’s all for free anyway,” she remarks, noting that the love, stories, and laughter shared with her patients are gifts that cannot be measured.
With a career spanning more than three decades, Shawn Williams exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated caregivers have on the lives of seniors. Her unwavering commitment to her work not only benefits her patients but also serves as a testament to the rewarding nature of elderly care.
