Wollongong CAREgiver receives ultimate recognition

Named the Illawarra’s CAREGiver of the Year, the award recognised Ms Carlisle’s outstanding commitment to providing quality, compassionate care that enhances the lives of seniors and their families.

Home Instead Senior Care Wollongong director Su Middleton nominated Ms Carlisle, and said she was incredibly deserving.

“Maureen has provided palliative care and dementia care services and with each client she has found a way to connect and enhance their lives,” Ms Middleton said.  

“Maureen goes home after her shifts and ponders, asking herself, ‘what more could I do?’ or ‘have I done enough?’

“It is not uncommon to receive emails and calls from Maureen every other day with suggestions, thoughts and solutions for her clients.” 

Ms Middleton said Ms Carlisle is seen as the “the voice” to many of the people she cares for, having supported clients throughout a number of difficulties. 

Ms Carlisle said it was an honour to receive the award. 

“Receiving HISC Wollongong of the Year Award makes me both extremely proud [and] humble,” she said. 

“It is a privilege to be able to attend to my clients in their own home where they remain comfortable, safe and, still in many cases, in charge of their own needs.

“I feel humble because I am invited into their homes and see their lives, family's and on many occasions - their treasured memories, often with amazing stories of their lives and how they lived.” 

Contributing to the lives of those in palliative care is something Ms Carlisle does on a regular basis, and said it is special. 

“Working within palliative care is a journey into the final stages of someone’s life,” she said. 

“To be able to help my client in remaining comfortable, attend to their needs or just be a friend and hold their hand is so very special as often they can be alone.

“Helping my clients is magic.”

For more information, please visit wollongong.homeinstead.com.au.