Priceilia Varso

Director of Nursing/Executive Manager, Braemar Cooinda, Willagee, WA

Priceilia Varso thrives in a fast-changing environment which is the ideal attribute for the leader of a busy aged care home like Braemar Cooinda in Willagee, WA.

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

PV: I have been in the aged care sector for over 10 years now, and I have a deep sense of compassion and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of our seniors, personally having lost my parents at a young age. The satisfaction derived from providing care and making a difference in their daily lives were compelling reasons to join this sector.

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

PV: I’ve been with Braemar Cooinda for nearly three years now when it was under its previous management, and after we joined the Hall & Prior family in August 2023, as a Director of Nursing/ Executive Manager.

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

PV: My role is diverse, and I am one who thrives in a VUCA - (Volatile, Unpredictable, Complex and Ambiguous) environment, and hope to become a better version of myself each day.

I enjoy the collaboration with multidisciplinary members involved in care, contrary to perhaps many people’s misconception of aged care being an easy feat. Some of the daily challenges include managing complex health issues and the emotional aspects of the ageing process as well as ensuring proper communication with families.

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

PV: Inspiring staff involves a collaborative and appreciative work environment. This includes recognising and appreciating their efforts, encouraging open communication, and emphasising the significance of their role in enhancing the seniors’ lives as paramount. A smile and a simple “thank you” goes a long way.

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

PV: I’d advise them to always keep their mind open and be receptive to change. Aged care requires a genuine passion for helping others, and one should have empathy and excellent communication skills. Medicine, disease, and governance is an evolving landscape and as such, staying resilient in the face of challenges is key to a successful and rewarding career in this field.

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

PV: I am only as good as my team. I take leadership as an action, not a position and I believe strongly in demonstrating by example. I trust my colleagues would describe me as one who is fair and adaptable. I go above and beyond for my team, and I work with them to achieve the best outcomes for our residents.

L&L: What makes for 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?

PV: A good day in aged care typically involves fostering positive connections with our residents and meeting their needs with compassion, thus enhancing their well-being. Balancing empathy with emotional resilience and finding gratitude in the small victories is vital in contributing to a compassionate and optimistic approach in this field.

L&L: What plans do you have for your home and how do you relax when you have finished work for the day?

PV: I would love for our home to be recognised for the quality care we provide to our residents and to eventually be able to foster reablement, deviating from it being just the end chapter.

After work, I go home to a teenager and a fur baby, both of whom mean the world to me. Spending time unwinding with them is by far, the best therapy available.

L&L: Tell us something we don’t know about you (could be a hobby, passion, special ability).

PV: I can dish up a decent meal. I find the simple gesture of preparing a nourishing meal and sharing it with people around me, gives immense satisfaction and is food for my soul.