Right at Home Boston and North Caregiver Highlight--Theresa A. Diorio

“I got into caregiving when I took care of a neighbor who had Alzheimer’s for two years,” said Theresa A. Diorio, SHHA, aka “Terry.” “I would take her in my car and we would go out for coffee. I cooked and provided personal care for her; the family hired me as a personal aide until she passed away.”

The experience became a turning point for Diorio; it inspired her to enter the health care industry as a caregiver at the age of 65. She attended the American Red Cross program in Peabody, MA to receive her Home Health Aide certification, then continued to undergo hospice support and geriatric psychology training at Right at Home Boston and North.

Prior to becoming a Home Health Aide, Diorio was an executive secretary at Macy’s Department Store. Originally from Danvers, MA, she currently resides in Peabody with her family. This May will mark Diorio’s 75th birthday, and the 10th anniversary of her becoming a caregiver.

Diorio joined Right at Home Boston and North in 2007, providing senior care services to elders in Saugus, Lynn, and Salem. These days, she works exclusively at Colonial Gardens in Beverly, MA. Diorio is diligent in looking out for those under her care. She makes sure changing conditions of her clients are reported to the nursing staff, and that helped save the life of one of her clients.

The seasoned Home Health Aide is humorous and has a great personality. She brings joy and warmth to everyone around her. “I love my job and I love what I do,” said Diorio. “I love walking into an elderly’s home and put a smile on his / her face. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing the happy face of a senior.”