October 10, 2025
Meet Alaina, a passionate long-term care nurse whose career began in high school and has grown into a lifelong calling.
How did you get started in the long-term care profession?
I obtained my CNA in high school and went to college for nursing in my thirties. When I graduated with my RN, I had built such strong relationships with clients, coworkers and community at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette. I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.
What do you like most about working in long-term care?
While long-term care is a medical facility, its also a community where people share growth, decline, celebrations, loss and all that’s in between. Some days are hard and some days are incredibly rewarding.
What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
Long-term care is never boring. While there are routine needs, there are also things that pop up and conditions that change all the time. Seeing he same clients on a regular basis helps us recognize changes quickly. People have lived really big lives and it’s an honor to be part of their journey.
What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also help you outside of work?
Meet people where they are. You don’t always know what people came from or who they were but if you can meet them where they are at on this day, at this current level of ability and cognition, that’s where you can make the connection and an impact.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I have four kids that keep me busy. My husband and I own a trucking company. I am the president of my town’s library board. I love to read and do craft projects.
What is your favorite quote and why?
My favorite quote is “don’t waste good”. The potential people have to effect change is so massive. I’m thankful for the opportunities that I have to contribute positively, and look up to those who pour into their communities.
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