Behind the Work of Elderly Caregivers at Daycare: A Longing Gradually Healed

JAKARTA – Deciding to work as a caregiver or facilitator for the elderly at a daycare or nursing home is not easy. However, this responsible job is chosen by two-child mother Yuli (61) since last year. After retiring from a pharmaceutical company in 2020, she was often occupied with church services and housework. But spending time solely at home often made her feel lonely, as her children rarely stayed home due to work. Therefore, she chose to join as a caregiver, also known as a facilitator, at Daycare Rumah Elok Lansia. ‘I feel like I have parents again when I’m here. My parents and in-laws have all passed away, so this longing is healed,’ Yuli said when interviewed at Daycare Rumah Elok Lansia in Pondok Indah, South Jakarta, on Thursday, 28 May 2026. Yuli explained that she first joined as an elderly caregiver after being invited by her friend Mira (61), the founder of Rumah Elok Lansia. For a year now, every Thursday she dedicates time to accompany the elderly in various activities from 10:00 to 15:00 WIB. Her duties include preparing materials, welcoming the elderly in the morning, engaging in conversations and breakfast together, and leading prayers before activities begin. After that, Yuli and two other caregivers lead the elderly into classes for activities such as group exercises, brain gym activities like solving math problems, puzzles, colouring, and more. At exactly 12:00, Yuli takes the elderly for a rest and lunch together. While accompanying the elderly, Yuli claims she has faced no difficulties. ‘There are no challenges. I’m happy because it feels like having parents again. My longing for my parents is gradually healed. There’s more joy than hardship,’ she added. She admits she has no educational background for caring for the elderly. All the materials used to stimulate the elderly are obtained from YouTube or her experience accompanying them during church exercises. Another facilitator, Avi (60), also has no specific educational background for elderly care. All materials are sourced from brain gym books or social media like YouTube. Like Yuli, Avi joined Rumah Elok Lansia after being invited by Mira, a schoolmate.