A Caregiver’s Journey: Kelly Elizabeth Calicoat’s Story

At Touching Hearts at Home of South Dayton/Springfield, caregiving is more than a profession—it’s a calling. It takes compassion, patience, and a true commitment to serving others. For Kelly Elizabeth Calicoat, caregiving is woven into the fabric of who she is. With five years of experience, she has found purpose, fulfillment, and deep connections through her work with seniors and their families.

Caregiving as a Community Responsibility

Kelly’s passion for caregiving was instilled in her at an early age. As a child, she would accompany her grandmother on visits to older adults in assisted living and long-term care facilities, offering companionship and support through their church.

“This was an act of love and service,” Kelly shares. “It was something I saw as essential—part of what makes a healthy community. The elderly should never feel forgotten or alone. Caregiving is a responsibility we all share, and I feel honored to be part of that.”

This early experience shaped her philosophy on aging and home care. To Kelly, home care is not just about tasks—it’s about preserving dignity, offering companionship, and being a lifeline for those navigating the later chapters of life.

The Art of Being Present

One of the biggest lessons Kelly has learned through caregiving is the power of presence. In a world that moves fast, seniors often long for someone who will slow down, listen, and simply be there.

“My favorite thing is just spending time with my clients,” she says. “Whether we’re talking, laughing, or sitting in comfortable silence, that time together is valuable. So often, it’s not about what you do, but the fact that you are there.”

One of Kelly’s most cherished memories is taking a client on daily car rides. “We would drive and talk, every single day. Just seeing them smile, knowing they felt at ease, made all the difference. It’s those little moments that remind me why I do what I do.”

The Value of Client Rights

A key part of Kelly’s caregiving philosophy is respecting client rights.

“I am here to care for them, support them, and keep them safe—but their choices, their preferences, and their voice always come first,” she emphasizes.

Respecting a client’s autonomy, even in the smallest decisions, is what allows them to retain a sense of control over their own lives. “Caregiving isn’t about doing things for someone; it’s about working with them. It’s about listening, being patient, and honoring their wishes.”

The Challenges of Caregiving—and the Strength in Teamwork

Like any profession, caregiving has its challenges. For Kelly, the biggest one is the constant need for flexibility.

“Schedules change. Needs shift. Unexpected things happen. It’s part of the job,” she says.

But one thing that makes it all easier? A strong team.

“This work demands that caregivers support each other rather than compete. We have to be there for each other, just like we are for our clients. Teamwork and compassion don’t stop at the people we care for—they extend to our fellow caregivers as well.”

Finding Purpose in the Everyday Moments

While some people search for their purpose in grand achievements, Kelly finds hers in the everyday moments of caregiving.

“I have the privilege of making a difference every single day. It’s not always big or dramatic—it’s in the small things. Helping with a task. Offering a kind word. Being there in a difficult moment. It’s all part of something bigger, and it’s priceless.”

She recalls a particularly moving moment when the family of a client who had passed away thanked her for her care. “They gave me a small keepsake that belonged to their loved one. That’s when you realize how much of an impact you’ve had—not just on the client, but on the entire family.”

Advice for Future Caregivers: ‘If You Don’t Care, Don’t Dare’

Kelly has some tough but honest advice for those considering a career in caregiving.

“If you don’t care, don’t dare,” she says. “This is not just a job. These are real people with real lives, and they deserve genuine compassion. If your heart isn’t in it, this isn’t the field for you.”

However, for those with a deep sense of empathy and a willingness to serve, caregiving can be one of the most rewarding careers. “If you have unconditional love, patience, professionalism, and self-discipline, then we need you. This work is important, and it changes lives.”

Aging with Respect and Dignity

Through caregiving, Kelly has gained a profound respect for the aging process.

“I’ve learned to truly value time. To respect boundaries. To listen more. I’ve learned to humble myself and be present with people in their most vulnerable moments,” she reflects.

Aging is a journey that every person will face. Through her work, Kelly ensures that for those she cares for, that journey is one filled with dignity, respect, and companionship.

Why Home Care is Irreplaceable

Kelly firmly believes that nothing compares to home care.

“There’s a level of comfort and safety that comes with being at home. It allows seniors to maintain their independence while still receiving the support they need. It also provides peace of mind to families, knowing their loved one is cared for by someone who truly has their best interest at heart.”

For Kelly, caregiving is not just a career—it’s a mission. It’s about being there for those who need it most, offering not just care, but connection, compassion, and dignity.

If you or a loved one are looking for personalized, compassionate home care, Touching Hearts at Home of South Dayton/Springfield is here for you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family!