Robert Terry has spent the past three decades as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) working with seniors at the same community in Town and Country, Missouri. This community, now Mason Pointe, joined the Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) family in 2016 and is expanding to a be full Life Plan Community with the addition of Independent Living. While the name of the community has changed a few times during his tenure, Terry’s commitment to taking excellent care of his residents has not. He continues to find purpose and fulfillment in his 32-year career as a CNA helping others – from the residents to his teammates at Mason Pointe.
Why did you want to become a CNA?
RT: My grandpa was in a senior living community and he wasn’t taken care of how he should have been. So, I thought “I can do this.”
I was already doing it for my grandpa anyway. My wife agreed that I should do something that I liked.
What advice do you have for someone who is thinking about becoming a CNA?
RT: Don’t just concentrate on your assignment. When you hit the floor, every resident is your responsibility. Our team works together and when we all work together, it goes easier.
Have dedication for what you do. You’ve got to like what you do, you’re going to be old someday too and need help.
Have a positive attitude, it makes the residents’ days a little easier.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
RT: Interacting with the residents, even in the dining room. I like joking with them or finding out how they’re doing. You get to meet interesting people if you take the time.
The residents make you feel needed too. It’s nice to be needed and to be helpful.
What do you like about working here?
RT: I enjoy being here and the people I work with. The stability that the community has with being an LSS community is good. It makes a difference.
People on my floor work well together so we can focus on the residents.
If you are interested in becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant, consider becoming an LSS Nurse Assistant in Training and get paid while earning your CNA at the CNA Training Academy. Learn more.