Get to Know a Care Pro
Emily B., Home Instead Nanaimo, BC
For Emily B, caregiving at Home Instead Home Instead is more than just a job—it's a commitment to community. Emily comes to us with a background in i received my initial training at home instead through lauren in the office, which included hands-on instruction, training videos, and online onboarding modules. i've also received in-person training tailored to each client, as their needs and levels of care vary. my experience includes assisting with bathing, mobility support using a lift belt, and providing care for individuals with complex conditions.
through home instead, i've cared for clients with parkinson's disease, stroke recovery, and heart conditions. each of these experiences has deepened my skills in adapting care with patience, attentiveness, and compassion.
prior to this, i helped cared for my elderly nana, which is part of what sparked my passion for caregiving. i also worked in a daycare setting and served as a behavioural support worker for children with diverse abilities, including autism, adhd, oppositional defiance disorder, and ocd. in both professional and volunteer roles—particularly in youth group settings—i've supported individuals with autism, tourette's, and tics, learning how to assist them in living full and supported lives.
in addition to caregiving, i was previously a professional baker. i have taken food safe and responsible adult certification courses and currently hold a basic first aid certificate (ofa level 1), which has prepared me to respond calmly and effectively in emergencies.. With 2 years 9 months at Home Instead, Emily has built relationships rooted in trust, compassion, and shared joy.
For Emily, the reward is in the connection. "What I love most about caring for older adults is the genuine connection that grows over time. The clients I've worked with have been absolutely amazing and have become more than just clients to me—they're like extended family. It's incredibly rewarding to see the positive difference I can make in their daily lives, whether it's through assisting with their care or simply being there as a comforting presence.
I also deeply appreciate the opportunity to hear their stories and learn from the incredible lives they've lived. Their wisdom, resilience, and unique perspectives enrich my own life, and I truly enjoy their company. Being able to support and uplift them while building meaningful relationships is the most fulfilling part of my work," Emily shares. Through these shared moments, Emily has learned valuable life lessons, noting, "I've learned so much from my clients—everything from gardening tips and recipes to stories about places I've never been. But what's really stuck with me is the strength and resilience they show every day. They've taught me how important it is to build strong character while I'm young, so I can face challenges with grace like they do. I've seen that it's possible to be in pain and still be full of joy and love, and that has truly inspired me."
Emily's daily goal is simple: ensure every client feels safe, comfortable, and cared for. Skilled in i've cared for clients with parkinson's, stroke recovery, and heart conditions, and i'm comfortable adapting to their individual needs. i'm experienced in providing personal care and companionship, and i focus on making clients feel comfortable and valued. i'm attentive to small cues and try to anticipate their needs, which helps me support them in a thoughtful and caring way. i think my greatest skill is my compassion., Emily finds joy in the details of each visit. "My favorite part of the day is seeing my client comfortable and happy. Whether they were feeling sad, hungry, or needed help with a shower, knowing I've been able to assist them to a place where they feel well cared for, fed, and emotionally supported is the most rewarding part of my work. That sense of making a positive difference is what motivates me every day," Emily says of a typical day.
Emily praises the local team for their dedication and communication. "From what I've heard from clients and their families, what really makes our Home Instead office stand out is how much we genuinely care. The caregivers here consistently go the extra mile, and the care we provide is truly tailored to each individual's needs. There's a strong focus on being flexible, attentive, and making sure each person is cared for in the way that works best for them. That level of dedication and personal connection is something people really notice and appreciate," Emily notes. "One thing I'm really proud of is how much our local Home Instead team truly cares about the clients—and it's clear in everything they do. Melissa, Steven, Nisha, and Tanya all lead with such compassion and dedication. They work hard to carefully match caregivers with clients in a way that meets each person's unique needs.
Melissa is always available to talk through any concerns we have, and she follows up to make sure our clients are safe and supported. The whole office team is thoughtful, approachable, and incredibly hardworking. My fellow caregivers also go above and beyond every day. It's a team that genuinely puts people first, and I feel blessed to be part of it."
In every way, Emily reflects the heart of caregiving: consistency, connection, and the quiet pride of knowing you've made someone's life better today.
