Aisle Batucan

Director

Aisle Batucan, originally from the Phillipines, has been in charge of Agmaroy Aged Care Home in WA for the past few monthsand feels like she’s really found a home from home. By Gabi Mills.

L&L: How long have you been working in aged care, and what drew you to the profession?

AB: Before moving to Australia, I worked in a hospital in the Philippines for over five years in various areas. In the last 10 years, I have worked as a carer, and a medication competent in Agmaroy Aged Care Home until I received my Registered Nurse registration. Working in aged care gives me the opportunity to care and provide a holistic approach on a long-term basis. Moreover, it feels like I’m looking after my late father and grandmother by caring for the elderly people.

L&L: When did you join Hall & Prior and in what capacity?

AB: I joined Hall & Prior in 2015 when the Group took over managing Agmaroy Aged Care Home. I worked as a carer and then become a Registered Nurse. As opportunities were offered, I progressed with my nursing career until I became the Deputy Director of Nursing in 2020, and now I’m the new Director of Nursing.

L&L: What do you particularly enjoy about your role and what are some of the challenges you face?

AB: I learned to love and enjoy the changes that my role brought into my life. The most enjoyable time for me is listening to the life stories of each resident and also their family when they come to join us at our home. We see the improvement that living here at Agmaroy gives to their life. Also, mentoring new staff to help them achieve their best potential is something I enjoy in my role.

There are enormous challenges in my role and I personally think that the ongoing significant changes in the aged care industry as a whole are important ones.

L&L: On a day-to-day basis, what makes your role special and how do you plan on inspiring staff at your home?

AB: I believe each role is special. As a DON, my role is to empower and inspire people in our home. In terms of inspiring my staff, firstly I want them to feel that they belong in our home. I also try to be a role model, showing respect and compassion. By doing so, my staff will understand that my ultimate goal is to make each and every resident feel the love and respect from my staff.

L&L: If somebody was contemplating a career in aged care, what advice would you give them?

AB: I would advise them that it requires patience, compassion and a deep understanding of working in aged care. They must be prepared in all aspects of working in this environment.

L&L: What kind of leader are you and how do you think your colleagues would describe you?

AB: My colleagues often tell me that I am a leader who acts calmly, even under pressure and that I’m a good critical thinker when it comes to solving an issue. For me, I believe I’m a kind and an optimist leader.

L&L: What makes a good day in aged care in your chosen career path - and how do you keep smiling in the face of everyday life and death situations encountered in aged care?

AB: Seeing the residents smiling and being happy is a good day. Additionally, joining in with singing and laughing with the residents and staff - this makes a happier and better day for us all.

I believed that being optimistic helps too; the people around me can feel my positive energy and this helps to boost their minds and make us all feel happy and calm.

To find out more about Agmaroy Aged Care Home please visit hallprior.com.au.