Meet Linda Alexander, who says what she loves most about her career is that no two days are ever the same. 

The 64-year-old Ballarat Home Care Worker takes older people to the shops, to cafes, to medical appointments, does home cleaning and personal care and enjoys chatting and laughing with them. 

One of the customers she’s particularly close to is folk singer and songwriter Shirley Watson.   “One day I bought a CD that Shirley had recorded, and I played it in my car when I drove her to an appointment.  She was really tickled pink with that!” recalls Linda. 

She and Shirley share a love of nature. Some days Linda takes her to the lake where they go for a short walk and breathe in the fresh air and the beautiful scenery. 

It’s times like this that Linda especially cherishes. 

“I feel both appreciated and needed.  One of my clients is a lovely lady who has macular degeneration and can’t see the groceries in the store very well.  So, I go shopping with her and she relies on me to find her the best prices.  That gives me a real buzz.” 

Linda continues to remain thankful that she took the plunge in the middle of the COVID-19 Pandemic to study further and change careers.  “It was the best decision I’ve ever taken,” she says. 

She’d previously worked in administration in the building industry; in hospitality including in school canteens and in the disability sector before following her heart and studying aged care. 

She’s also worked and lived in a number of areas including Melbourne, Launceston, Geelong, Cobden and now of course Ballarat, where she has been in her current role for 12 months. 

The grandmother-of-two says the team is very inclusive and supportive. She also likes the culture and values of Uniting AgeWell which reflect her own.  

She’s also growing fond of Ballarat.  “The historic buildings are awesome and the people are friendly. But it’s so cold!  Sometimes I think it even gets colder here than in Tasmania.” 

On Aged Care Employee Day it’s time to celebrate Linda and all our staff, for the work they do each and every day in putting our customers first and foremost in everything they do.  Thank you for caring!