Recognized for his inspiring dedication to the well-being of his home care clients, TNJH HAPI Home Health Aide Michael Johnson received a 2024 Employee of Distinction Award by LeadingAge New York on September 20.

After working in real estate for many years, in 2019, Michael decided to begin a new career as a home health aide (HHA). His childhood in Jamaica taught him the importance of treating older adults with respect and reverence. After Michael completed his training at TNJH’s HAPI program, he was hired by The New Jewish Home. Michael’s positive, strengths-based perspective influences his approach to care, and each and every client he served has provided outstanding feedback. One client even pleaded with Michael to remain with her by switching to another home care agency.    

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michael was reassigned to help provide care at TNJH’s Manhattan skilled nursing facility. Throughout the unprecedented crisis, Michael remained calm and made every effort to bring a sense hope and normalcy to residents and patients. He provided crucial support to our nursing team. While it was a completely different setting from working in clients’ homes, Michael embraced his role and lifted the spirits of the frail older adults for whom he cared, which alleviated the loneliness they felt.

Looking back, he explained, “the experience was difficult, but deeply rewarding—it made me appreciate life a bit more.” Michael’s supervisor, Beverly Williams, Assistant Vice President of Home Care Services, remarked, “Michael was so beloved by the Manhattan team that they almost forgot that he wasn’t a full-time staff member. He was the very last aide to be released back to TNJH’s HAPI program.”      

Though many of his peers have already retired, at 73, Michael continues to work 12-hour shifts four days a week to care for an older patient who is recovering from a stroke. Michael understands when his patient is uncomfortable or in pain, even if he does not express it verbally. Michael also knows his client’s preferences. In addition to his love for football and basketball, he is extroverted and happiest when he is outdoors, so most days Michael wheels him into town to interact with shopkeepers in the community. Michael takes pride in keeping track of his client’s medical appointments, encouraging him to complete his physical therapy exercises and updating his daughters regarding his health. Deeply attached to Michael, his client often requests that he call on his off days to check in.

Michael reflects, “While the work is not easy and the hours are long, there is nothing more fulfilling. I keep saying I will retire the following year, but never do because caring for others and instilling hope and positivity—these are things that give me strength and purpose.” It’s no surprise that Michael’s current and past clients sing his praises for his exemplary work ethic, compassion, and professionalism.

To learn more about our HAPI Home Care Program, please contact us at (718) 367-1311.