The Heart of Caregiving: Larry Compa’s Story
At Touching Hearts at Home of Albany, we believe the best caregivers are those who bring not just experience, but empathy, patience, and heart to their work. And Larry Compa is the perfect example of just that.
For the past 2.5 years, Larry has been a steady, comforting presence for the seniors and families we serve in the Albany area. His journey into home care didn’t start out of necessity—it started out of purpose.
“I had a history of working in human services, and after retiring from my full-time career, I decided to keep going,” Larry said. “Touching Hearts gave me the flexibility I was looking for while allowing me to stay connected to meaningful work.”
That balance between service and personal life is what drew Larry in. What’s kept him here? The deep, human connections.
Building Trust, One Visit at a Time
In the world of non-medical senior home care, relationships are everything. And for Larry, building trust isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about consistency.
“You just keep showing up,” he shared simply. “That’s how the connection grows.”
One story that stuck with Larry involved a client who had endured some incredibly difficult losses in his life. Over time, Larry not only became someone this client could depend on but also someone the family trusted.
“As I got to know more about his past interests and lifestyle, I began taking him to places around Albany that aligned with those passions. It wasn’t just an outing—it often sparked memories and stories that brought him joy.”
This kind of intentional caregiving—where personal interests are remembered and respected—is what sets Touching Hearts at Home of Albany apart. We don’t just provide care. We foster connection, dignity, and moments of happiness.
Understanding the Full Picture: Supporting Clients and Their Families
One of the most powerful lessons Larry has learned as a caregiver is that the journey isn’t just about the client—it’s about their family, too.
“Both the client and their family members will need our help at times—sometimes expected, sometimes not,” he noted.
As a trusted in-home caregiver in Albany, Larry has supported families through difficult transitions, new diagnoses, and the emotional realities of aging. These moments call for more than physical assistance—they require compassion, patience, and emotional presence.
“The reality is that many of our clients won’t get better. Some will continue to decline. That’s hard to witness,” Larry said. “But I use prayer and meditation to guide me. It helps me stay centered and compassionate.”
This emotional resilience is something many people don’t realize is part of caregiving—but it’s essential. And it’s something Larry brings in abundance.
When You Know You’ve Made a Difference
Sometimes, it’s not a big moment that reminds you you’re making an impact—it’s the quiet gratitude.
“Family members are very sincere when they express their thanks for all you do. That really stays with me,” Larry said. “It means a lot when they take the time to acknowledge it.”
And recognition from Touching Hearts at Home—through caregiver awards or team appreciation—isn’t just a pat on the back. For Larry, it’s a reminder that this work matters.
Real Talk: Is Caregiving Right for You?
Larry is honest when it comes to giving advice to those considering a career in home care—because this isn’t a job for everyone.
“Contact Victoria at Touching Hearts at Home and let her know you’re interested,” he said. “But if you’re impatient, egotistical, money-hungry, or snobbish—don’t waste your time. Or Victoria’s.”
Caregiving is a calling. It’s for people who want to serve, support, and show up—on the good days and the hard ones.
A Changed Perspective on Aging
Through his work as a caregiver, Larry says he’s grown in ways he didn’t expect.
“I am a more compassionate and sensitive person now,” he reflected. “Being with clients as they navigate aging has shifted my perspective. It’s not something to fear—it’s something to honor and support.”
That’s what aging in place with dignity is all about: recognizing that seniors deserve to live with comfort, joy, and connection, right in the homes they love.
A Final Message from the Heart
When asked to share one message about the importance of home care, Larry didn’t hesitate:
“You may be taking a risk… but it’ll be worth it.”
Join Our Care Team in Albany
Caregivers like Larry are the heart of what we do. If you’re someone who’s compassionate, dependable, and ready to make a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you.
📍 Serving Albany and the Capital Region, Touching Hearts at Home offers flexible schedules, ongoing support, and a team culture rooted in compassion.
