Growth Journal - May Nacar

Journey as a Diversional and Recreational Therapist: A Path to Making a Difference

In April 2015, I began my journey as a Health Care Assistant (HCA) at Makoha Resthome in Rotorua, New Zealand. This marked the beginning of a path that I had not anticipated, but one that would shape my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

Before that, however, I had struggled for some time to find stable work after moving from the Philippines. My dream was simple: to provide a better life for my family. I initially worked as a housekeeper in a hotel while seeking a job as an HCA, a position that could potentially lead to residency in New Zealand.

I was overjoyed when I finally secured the HCA job after many days of walking around Rotorua, distributing my CV to nearly every rest home in the area. It was difficult not to feel disappointed, especially given my qualifications. As a registered nurse midwife with 11 years of experience teaching in a nursing school, I felt that I was more than capable of the job. One day, I received a call that would change the course of my life. The rest home needed someone who could speak Chinese for a newly admitted resident. I was hesitant at first, thinking my Mandarin skills were too basic, but I agreed. It was a Saturday, and I had to walk in the rain for nearly an hour to arrive by 7 a.m. The nurse was reluctant to accept me, as orientations weren’t usually done on weekends, but I was determined. She handed me over to the senior HCA for training.

That first day was an eye-opening experience. I was struck by the quiet, somber atmosphere. The building had a distinct smell, bells rang, lights flashed, and many residents were bedridden. It was a stark contrast to the world I had known. The loneliness was palpable. I began to wonder how I could help make their lives more fulfilling. Soon after, I noticed our receptionist reading the newspaper to some residents. I borrowed the newspaper the next day and did the same. Residents started engaging, sharing thoughts, asking questions — a simple act of reading brought connection and purpose.

Over time, a Diversional Therapist (DT) was hired. I had never heard of the role before and was curious. I learned that Diversional Therapy focused on improving the quality of life for elderly people through activities that promote participation and connection. I started volunteering an hour a week to help with games and crafts, slowly introducing ideas. We went from two or three residents to groups of ten or more.

A turning point came when my manager offered me the role of Assistant Diversional Therapist. I began developing daily activity calendars, encouraging participation with small rewards. Slowly, even those who were depressed or isolated began joining in. The transformation was remarkable. These activities didn’t just lift the residents — they supported the staff too. HCAs had more breathing space, residents rang their bells less, and the overall atmosphere changed. When the DT retired, my manager offered to pay for my Diversional Therapy studies. I had sworn I wouldn’t study again — but this felt like a calling.

In 2020, I juggled the role of Assistant DT, HCA shifts, family life, and studies. It was exhausting, but I stayed focused. I organized Matariki celebrations, invited school children to perform, and curated events that brought life to the home.

Then came COVID-19. Lockdowns confined residents to their rooms. To keep spirits up, I delivered one-on-one activities, coloring pages, puzzles, and hallway bingo. Later, we introduced staff performances and created a Facebook page to help families stay connected through Messenger.

That time was tough, but it brought us closer. We launched a Pink Walk for breast cancer awareness — residents decorated bras, we paraded around the block, and we won a major community award. It was a proud, joyful moment.

Since then, we’ve continued to mark important days with themed events — Valentine’s serenades, Diwali, Filipino Day, Daffodil Day, and more. Our Christmas door decorating contest has become a favorite, with staff and residents working together to spread festive cheer.

Our efforts paid off. The facility earned a four-year certification in our latest audit — a testament to the care, love, and dedication we pour into our home every day.

In 2024, I graduated as a licensed Diversional and Recreational Therapist. Attending the ceremony in Auckland, surrounded by fellow DRThs from all over New Zealand, was a moment of immense pride. I had made it. Looking back, I see how far I’ve come. What began as a small gesture — reading the news to a few residents — grew into a life-changing career. My journey has been filled with challenges, but also incredible growth. I’ve learned that with compassion, creativity, and community, we can bring meaning to every stage of life.

And that’s exactly what I plan to keep doing for many years to come.