Caregiving Journey: Lillian Dickason’s Story
At Touching Hearts at Home of Buffalo, we believe that home care is more than just assistance—it’s about bringing comfort, dignity, and human connection to those who need it most. For Lillian Dickason, caregiving is deeply personal.
Having cared for her parents and late husband, Lillian understands the importance of aging in place—remaining in the home, surrounded by familiarity and love. Her personal experiences led her to a career in home care, where she could extend that same compassion, understanding, and stability to others.
Her story is one of love, resilience, and the profound impact caregivers have on the lives of those they serve.
A Personal Calling: The Power of Staying Home
For Lillian, caregiving wasn’t a profession she sought out—it was a role she naturally stepped into when her loved ones needed her most.
“I had taken care of my parents and my deceased husband. I learned how important it was for them to be in their own homes during their illnesses. I wanted to give that happiness and comfort to others who needed some help staying in their own homes.”
Seeing firsthand how much peace and dignity home care provided to her loved ones, she realized that helping others stay in their own homes was one of the greatest gifts she could give.
A Client’s Farewell: A Moment That Changed Everything
Not every caregiving story ends with a happy resolution. One of Lillian’s most profound experiences came when she cared for a client with dementia who was about to be moved into an assisted living facility against her wishes.
“She really didn’t want to go, but her dementia was getting worse. She believed that she was going there for a few days and would be able to leave if she didn’t like it there.”
On her final night with this client, Lillian did what she always did—she tucked her in with care and reassurance, hiding her own sadness about the transition.
“I said to her, ‘Well, June, I will come see you in your new home, okay?’”
The client, sensing the moment, placed her hand on Lillian’s face and spoke words that would stay with her forever:
“Lill, I want you to know, the past few months with you have been some of the best months of my life. No one has understood me the way you have. Thank you. I love you.”
This moment solidified the meaning of caregiving—it’s not just about providing support; it’s about being a source of comfort, understanding, and love in the final chapters of a person’s life.
The Art of Listening: Learning from Seniors
Through her time in home care, Lillian has learned a powerful lesson:
“I’ve learned to take time and listen to them, to try to put myself in their shoes and figure out the fears and hurdles they are facing. I’ve also learned that humor and laughter are so important!”
Seniors have a lifetime of wisdom, experiences, and fears about aging. By simply listening and engaging, caregivers can ease anxieties, uplift spirits, and help their clients feel truly heard.
Lillian also recognizes the importance of laughter—even in the toughest moments, humor can bring joy and connection.
Building Trust: Respecting Personal Space
Trust is one of the most important elements of caregiving. For Lillian, it’s about respecting the client’s home and preferences.
“I build trust by listening and trying not to offend or upset them. Something as small as moving a picture when dusting can upset some people—respect their space and home.”
Caregivers must be mindful that a client’s home is their sanctuary. Small changes—like rearranging furniture or moving personal items—can be disruptive. By acknowledging their preferences and treating their space with care, trust is naturally built.
The Challenge of the Caregiver’s Heart
Caregiving is emotionally demanding, especially when strong bonds form. For Lillian, the hardest part has been learning to let go.
“The challenge for me is protecting my heart. I fall in love with my clients, and I have lost three of them. I have had to try to learn to let go. I’m not doing a very good job at that.”
Saying goodbye is one of the most difficult aspects of caregiving. When a client passes, caregivers don’t just lose a client—they lose a friend, a companion, and a piece of their heart.
Yet, despite the emotional toll, Lillian continues to show up with love and dedication, knowing that every moment spent with a client is worth it.
Making a Difference Beyond Caregiving
Lillian’s compassion extends far beyond home care. One of her most impactful experiences happened long before she became a professional caregiver, when she was managing a retail store.
One day, a young woman entered her store, desperately searching for work. She had two children—one with special needs—but no food, no furniture, and no way to apply for a job online.
Lillian’s response? She didn’t just offer sympathy—she took action.
She spoke with her district manager, arranged for the woman to receive groceries from the store, and even rallied customers to donate money.
“I filled my car with groceries and drove to her house after work. After filling her refrigerator and cupboards, I took her to my house, allowed her to use my computer, and helped her fill out the application for the job she wanted. She was hired.”
This moment captures Lillian’s heart—she is someone who doesn’t just help; she empowers, uplifts, and ensures that those in need don’t feel alone.
Advice for Future Caregivers: Observe and Learn
For those considering a career in home care, Lillian’s advice is simple but profound:
“Listen, watch, and learn.”
Every client is different. The best caregivers are not just helpers—they are observers, listeners, and students of human connection.
A New Perspective on Aging: Everyone Deserves Respect
Caregiving has deepened Lillian’s belief that every person—no matter their age or condition—deserves to be valued.
“I want to be respected and heard as I age. No matter your age, mental health, or physical health… you matter.”
Aging should never diminish a person’s importance, voice, or right to dignity. Lillian carries this belief into every client’s home, ensuring they know that their story, opinions, and presence matter.
Why Home Care Matters: A Message from Lillian
If Lillian could share one message about the importance of home care, it would be this:
“Be the smile that your client wants to see come in the door every day! Be that ray of sunshine that lights up their day! Life is short—make it as happy as possible.”
Home care is about bringing warmth, joy, and companionship into someone’s life. It’s about easing fears, creating comfort, and ensuring that every client knows they are not alone.
Caregivers like Lillian don’t just help seniors—they bring light into their lives.
Looking for Compassionate Home Care? We’re Here for You
At Touching Hearts at Home of Buffalo, we are proud to have caregivers like Lillian who bring love, dedication, and kindness to every client they serve. If you or a loved one could benefit from home care services, our team is here to help.
