Doris LaPorte said something she’s learned over the course of her career is exactly how much she genuinely enjoys working with older people.
“Spending time with them has taught me patience, compassion and the importance of providing not only physical care but also emotional support,” she said. “I find fulfillment in helping seniors maintain their dignity, comfort and independence, and in building meaningful relationships with them.”
LaPorte, a senior caregiver with Visiting Angels of Port Orchard, Washington, has worked in the caregiving industry since 1987. Her career began, she said, before a certified nursing license was even required. Over the years, she said her love of working with older people only grew as she realized what it meant to form bonds with her patients and their families.
Her career has encountered its tough moments, including working closely with hospice patients and individuals living with Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), but the experiences helped deepen her skills as a caregiver and increased her passion for the work.
“I enjoy getting to know them on a personal level, (their likes and dislikes, daily habits and life stories) and even developing positive relationships with their family members,” LaPorte said. “I have been with one client for three years and another for almost two years, which allows me to offer personalized support.”
About 13 years ago, LaPorte met Marilyn Oswald, the owner of the Port Orchard Visiting Angels franchise, which provides private duty homecare. LaPorte said she admired Visiting Angels’ mission and told Oswald she would come work for her one day. Ten years later, her prediction became a reality, and LaPorte has been with the company ever since.
LaPorte was named Caregiver of the Year by AxisCare, honoring her 40-plus years in professional caregiving and her commitment to providing compassionate care for all of her patients.
“I am highly honored and grateful to be recognized as the Caregiver of the Year by AxisCare,” LaPorte said. “It means so much to know that my dedication to caregiving is acknowledged and appreciated by clients and coworkers alike.”
“At a time when the industry is focused on caregiver retention and quality outcomes, Doris’s career reflects the impact of long-term investment in skilled caregivers,” AxisCare said. “Colleagues describe her as a trusted professional who consistently prioritizes dignity and individualized care.”
LaPorte said her main advice to fellow caregivers is to take the work one day at a time and to remember to take care of yourself. She spends time on hobbies such as hiking and regular exercise to support her own mental and physical health.
And she says remembering to stay true to yourself is key when it comes to progressing in the industry.
“Be yourself,” LaPorte said. “When I’m with my clients, I’m there for my clients. I think to myself, ‘I’m treating them the way I want to be treated when I’m older.’”
Michelle Love is an associate editor for HomeCare Media.