I first got to know Helping Hand because my eldest sister worked there. She encouraged me to apply, and that’s how I became a Personal Care Worker in 1995. All these years later—I’m still here! We work in three shifts: morning, afternoon, and night. My job includes caring for our residents—helping them shower, feeding them, assisting with toileting, serving meals, and preparing them for bed. We also organise a lot of activities, like taking them out for dim sum or nature outings. Every day I go to work feeling motivated. Chatting with the residents brings me joy, and they’re happy to see me too! Our whole team works really well together, and I feel so fortunate to have such great colleagues. Time flies when I’m working here—every day is full of purpose.

Our elderly residents have so many stories to tell. Sometimes they can be a bit temperamental, but their good mood often returns quickly. Many people think this is a ‘dirty or undesirable job,’ but I don’t see it that way. Reality is very different from what people imagine, so I always invite them to come and experience it firsthand. I often tell my children that I’m truly happy doing this job—it doesn’t feel unpleasant at all. The relationships we build here are incredibly special. Many years ago, one resident said to me, ‘Today is my birthday, but no one will celebrate it with me.’ So I decided to surprise him—I bought him a roast goose leg to mark the occasion. When he opened the lunchbox, he was moved to tears. That small gesture brought him so much joy. We will all grow old one day. If no one is willing to take on this work, then who will care for our elderly? I believe this job is deeply meaningful and worth doing.  

I have two daughters, and both of them are living in the UK now. They often ask me, ‘Mum, when will you come and reunite with us?’ After thinking long and hard, I told them I’ve decided to stay in Hong Kong. I miss my daughters dearly, but I truly love caring for the elderly here. My work gives me immense fulfillment—I don’t want to be anywhere else. This is my life’s mission! I always encourage young people to try out this profession, just like I did all those years ago. It’s a job full of meaning and satisfaction. To be a good caregiver, you need compassion, attentiveness, and patience. The elderly have lived through so much; they deserve our respect and heartfelt care. I really love my job—but it’s physically demanding too! So when I get time off, I enjoy relaxing, listening to music, and playing mahjong!  

Storytelling by Hong Kong Shifts