New Activity Aide Enjoys Helping Others

Neel Parikh is a welcome addition to the recreation team at Helen Henderson Care Centre, a popular retirement lodge and long-term care home in the heart of Amherstview.

Known for his bright smile and warm demeanor, Neel has already made a positive impact since he joined the home earlier this year.

“Neel is a hard worker who cares deeply about the people around him,” notes Donna Joudoin, the home’s Activity Director and Neel’s direct supervisor. “He is passionate about keeping people busy either through fun activities or educational sessions. Although he’s only been with our home for a short while, he’s already made a positive impression with our residents, staff and families which is why I felt it was appropriate to feature him as our Staff Spotlight in July.”

Born in India, Neel arrived in Canada a few years ago. He is a recent graduate of St. Lawrence College, Kingston Campus; his studies include Physiotherapy, Recreational Therapy and Autism and Behavioural Science.

“I’m liking it here,” attests the friendly 26-year-old from the family owned and operated home on a warm summer day in late June 2025. “It’s a good place to work.”

Currently dedicated to the home’s secure unit called Reception 3, Neel enjoys working with residents who are suffering from memory loss and confusion. He feels it is an extension of his school placement when he worked in a memory care unit.

“I prefer working with older residents,” he explains. “They have so much life experience to share.”

A resident of Kingston, Neel is enjoying his new life in Canada. He says his goal is to give back to the community and improve people’s quality of life. When he’s not at work, he can be found walking, cooking and socializing.

Asked to describe himself, he says he is easy to approach and smiles a lot because he’s happy, despite missing his family back in India.

“It was a hard decision to come here,” the young man admits. “But in my mind, it was a choice to improve my quality of life.”

Questions for Neel

If you could rule the world, what would you do on day one?

“I would give free dining to everyone. Eating at restaurants has become more expensive since I arrived in Canada a few years ago.”

If you could have superpower, what would it be?

“It would be nice to have the power to heal.”

If you weren’t at your current job, what would you be doing?

“I would like to be a researcher in recreational therapy because good data helps improve people’s quality of life. I like to be around data. I even published an article while attending St. Lawrence College.”

Helen Henderson Care Centre is grateful for the good work of Neel Parikh. To learn more about living or working in our home, please call 613-384-4585.