Caregiving Journey: Lisa Quigley’s Story
At Touching Hearts at Home of Buffalo, every caregiver brings something unique to the lives of the seniors they serve. Some are drawn to caregiving because of personal experiences, others because of a deep love for helping others. For Lisa Quigley, caregiving is about something even more personal—the connection and companionship that one-on-one care provides.
Having worked in home care for 4 ½ years, Lisa has found fulfillment in the genuine relationships she builds with her clients, valuing the conversations, shared experiences, and lessons she gains from those she cares for.
Her journey is a testament to the impact of quality home care—not just for seniors, but for caregivers as well.
A Love for the Elderly: Choosing a Career in Caregiving
Lisa always knew she had a special place in her heart for the elderly. Her journey into caregiving started with a simple desire:
“My love for the elderly. I started off as a caregiver, loved it so much that I became an HHA but realized I prefer the one-on-one contact with every senior that I’m with.”
While becoming a Home Health Aide (HHA) expanded her knowledge and skills, she found that her true passion was in the deeply personal, one-on-one connections she could form through direct caregiving.
She realized that being present, engaging, and creating a personal bond with each client brought her the most joy—not just providing care, but truly being a companion.
A Lesson That Stuck: “You’re Never Too Old to Learn”
One of Lisa’s most memorable clients was a woman who had a lifelong passion for reading and learning.
“I once had a client that loved to read. She always wanted to stay on top of everything happening and always told me that you’re never too old to learn. That has always stuck with me.”
This simple yet profound lesson serves as a reminder that aging doesn’t mean slowing down—it means continuing to grow, explore, and engage with the world.
Lisa carries this mindset into her caregiving, encouraging her clients to stay mentally active, pursue their interests, and embrace new experiences at any stage of life.
The Key to Success in Caregiving: Open Communication
If Lisa had to sum up the most valuable lesson she has learned from her time in home care, it would be:
“Open communication.”
This applies to both clients and their families. Caregivers need to ensure that families are informed, clients feel heard, and concerns are addressed with honesty and understanding.
Good communication builds trust, reduces misunderstandings, and fosters a sense of security for both seniors and their loved ones.
Building Trust Through Love, Care, and Kindness
For Lisa, caregiving is about more than just assisting with daily needs—it’s about creating an environment where clients feel safe, valued, and genuinely cared for.
“I build trust by showing them love, care, and kindness.”
Many seniors struggle with feelings of loneliness or vulnerability, and caregivers play a vital role in offering emotional support. A simple act of kindness or a reassuring presence can make all the difference in how a senior experiences their day.
Overcoming the Feeling of “Not Doing Enough”
One of the challenges Lisa faces in her caregiving role isn’t about the work itself—it’s about the self-imposed pressure to do more.
“Sometimes I feel like I’m not doing enough and have to remind myself that I am if the client is happy, healthy, and had a good day with me.”
Caregivers often have a deep emotional investment in their clients, leading them to feel as though they should always be doing more. However, Lisa reminds herself that a good day, a smile, or a heartfelt conversation is just as valuable as any task completed.
Caregiving isn’t just about doing things for clients—it’s about being there for them.
The Impact of Being Missed
If there’s one moment that reminds Lisa of her true impact, it’s when her clients tell her they miss her.
“Whenever I hear a client tell me that they miss me when I’m not there with them.”
This simple phrase carries deep meaning—it’s a sign that her presence truly makes a difference in their lives.
Caregivers become part of their clients’ daily routine, bringing comfort and stability. Being missed means she has built a connection that matters—one that goes beyond just care and into genuine companionship.
Advice for Future Caregivers: Just Do It!
For those considering a career in home care, Lisa has enthusiastic advice:
“Do it! It’s a very rewarding career.”
Caregiving requires patience, empathy, and a heart for service, but it also offers deep personal fulfillment. The ability to improve someone’s quality of life, be a source of comfort, and build lasting relationships is what makes this career so meaningful.
A New Awareness of Aging
Being a caregiver has changed how Lisa views aging. She has become more aware of what seniors truly need—not just assistance, but respect, companionship, and dignity.
“I am more aware of the needs of the elderly, and I hope that someone will do this for me when I am older.”
This perspective serves as a reminder that caregiving isn’t just a profession—it’s an act of humanity.
One day, we will all rely on others, and the kindness we show today sets the standard for the care we will hope to receive in the future.
Why Home Care Matters: A Message from Lisa
If Lisa could share one key message about the importance of home care, it would be this:
“It’s good for the client as well as the caregiver with the comforts of their own home.”
Home care isn’t just about helping seniors—it’s about allowing them to age in place, surrounded by familiarity and routine.
For caregivers, home care provides a unique opportunity to form deep, meaningful relationships that aren’t possible in other care settings. It’s a mutually rewarding experience that benefits both the client and the caregiver in ways that extend beyond the physical aspects of care.
Looking for Compassionate Home Care? We’re Here for You
At Touching Hearts at Home of Buffalo, we are proud to have caregivers like Lisa who bring love, kindness, and a deep commitment to companionship into their work. If you or a loved one could benefit from home care services, our team is here to help!
