Meet Maylene Dyer: COHME Home Health Aide

By Katerina Yang

Maylene is a dedicated home health aide who has been working with COHME for 8 years. Originally from Guyana, she moved to the U.S. in 2003. She used to work in nursing homes and care agencies before finding her place in home healthcare. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening in the summer. When she's not tending to her clients, she likes listening to music and meeting friends.

Let’s get to know a little more about Maylene:

What inspired you to enter this field?

I’m from Guyana, and when I finished high school, I started working with elderly people. I’ve always liked being around older people and interacting with them. It felt natural to me. Back in school, I didn’t have many friends, so I started working early and found comfort in engaging with different people.

What’s it like working as a home health aide?

It’s much easier than working in a nursing home. When I worked in a nursing home, I had to take care of 12 patients during my 8-hour shift. Now, I care for just 2 clients, and I find it more manageable. 

What do you enjoy about working with older adults?

I enjoy the experience I gain every day. I've worked with people from all over the world, such as Asia and Europe, and I’ve learned so much about their cultures, languages, and even their food and cooking styles. 

What are some challenges you've faced?

I’ve faced a lot of challenges, especially working with hospice clients. Losing someone you care for is never easy, and I’ve had to deal with the stress. I keep myself busy and stay focused on the clients and my duty solely. Sometimes I have clients with dementia, and that can be really tough, especially when they’re in the later stages. But I remind myself to be patient, stay calm, and offer support to their families. 

How have your career goals evolved?

Every day in this field is a learning experience. I take training classes and learn more about dealing with clients who have dementia. As for my goals, they have not changed very much. Maybe one day I’ll want a change. For now, I’m happy with where I am.

Has this work changed you?

Absolutely. It’s taught me a lot about patience and how to handle stress. Working with clients who have dementia, for example, has taught me how to redirect them when they’re having trouble. You have to stay calm and understand what they’re going through.

How do you balance work and life?

It’s all about keeping myself busy and finding time for myself. When I get home, I put my bag down, step into the garden, and do a little work there. I also focus on housework to keep my mind occupied. 

What’s been your biggest reward?

My biggest reward is being able to help people. Every time I can assist someone and see how grateful they are, it makes me feel like I’m doing something meaningful. I can’t always help my mom, who is back home, blind and doesn’t hear well, but I make sure my clients know how much I care. When they appreciate my service, it feels like a blessing for my mom.