By Maggie Dawson, Activities Director
Westwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Fort Walton Beach
By the end of this decade – which, after all, we’re halfway through – 1 in 4 of our fellow Floridians will be 65 or older. Our state will require more and more people to meet the needs of this so-called “silver tsunami,” and as we observe Careers in Aging Month, I want to share my journey and passion for long term care.
My position as activities director at Westwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Fort Walton Beach is the culmination of a career of deep purpose and personal fulfillment, and I hope to inspire others to consider this incredibly rewarding profession.
My story began in 2004 when, at just 18 years old, I took my first steps into the health care profession as a Certified Nursing Assistant. From the start, I was drawn to the compassionate aspect of care: being there for residents in their most vulnerable moments, offering not just assistance but also dignity and respect. My deep connection with the elderly can be traced back to my childhood, when I would accompany my grandfather as he performed country music at senior communities. Those early experiences of singing, dancing, and engaging with residents left a lasting impact, shaping my desire to work in long term care.
Driven by a commitment to enrich the lives of seniors, I transitioned to the activities department in 2016, and that’s where I found my true calling. In this role, I get to create engaging and meaningful experiences tailored to residents’ needs, ensuring that they remain mentally, physically, and socially active. I take great comfort in knowing that my work enhances the quality of care while also bringing joy, purpose, and a sense of community to those I serve.
Each day carries new opportunities to bring patience, empathy, and creativity to my role, ensuring that every resident at our center feels valued and included. Through our activity programs, we foster social connections, combat loneliness, and promote overall well-being. Whether I’m organizing group events, facilitating one-on-one interactions, or collaborating with fellow team members, I strive to create an environment where our residents can thrive.
I would encourage anyone to consider a career in this incredibly rewarding field of long term care. You have the opportunity to form meaningful connections, hear incredible life stories, and make a real difference in the lives of residents. The bonds you create with both residents and colleagues are truly special.
With an aging population and an increasing demand for skilled caregivers, careers in long-term care offer both stability and profound personal fulfillment. The work can be challenging, but the rewards – seen in the smiles, gratitude, and well-being of those in care – are immeasurable.
This Careers in Aging Month, I’m pleased to celebrate my fellow caregivers who dedicate their lives to uplifting Florida’s seniors. Our work is not just an occupation but a calling, ensuring that our aging loved ones receive the dignity, care, and joy they deserve. To those seeking a career with purpose, long term care offers an opportunity to make a lasting difference.
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