From Chicago Nurse to Gifu Caregiver — My Journey of Starting Over
Introduction
When I first moved to Japan, I didn’t imagine I would return to caregiving.
After ten years of working as a nurse in Chicago, I wanted a slower, simpler life — time to breathe, to rest, and to rediscover myself.
But deep down, caring for others was always part of who I am.
So when the chance came to work in a Japanese day service (デイサービス), I decided to take it — even if I was scared, even if I wasn’t sure where to start.
This is the story of how I found my first caregiving job in Japan — a story of exhaustion, faith, kindness, and new beginnings.
From Nursing in Chicago to Life in Gifu
Back in Chicago, I worked as a nurse in a nursing home — always caring for more than thirty patients during a single night shift or day shift.
It was rewarding at times, but mostly, it was exhausting.
Between the constant demands of families, patients, and management, the work felt unforgiving.
We were always short-staffed. Even when agency nurses came to help, some wouldn’t show up, and others barely did their part.
I had to keep an eye on them while also caring for my patients, answering call lights, and managing medications.
It often felt like being alone in a place that was supposed to be about teamwork.
The pressure was endless, and slowly, I started to feel lost and frustrated.
When I moved to Japan, I decided to take a break.
For several months, I didn’t work. I spent time reflecting on what I really wanted to do, identifying my strengths, and focusing on learning Japanese.
Still, I thought it would be impossible to return to healthcare again — the language barrier seemed too high.
Then one day, my husband’s friend — who is also a nurse — handed him a flyer for a free three-month caregiving training program (介護職員初任者研修).
It sounded like an opportunity to gain a new skill, even if my Japanese wasn’t great.
My husband called to explain my background and language level. To our surprise, they were curious and invited us for an interview.
I prepared as best as I could, but during the actual meeting, my husband did most of the talking. Three interviewers sat across from us. I smiled a lot to hide my nervousness — and somehow, that smile helped the most.
Even though it was supposed to be just for training, they asked if I would also like to work part-time. I said yes immediately.
They told us they would find a branch that could support me, and I felt a spark of hope — maybe this was the start of something new.
The Interview Experience and My First Step into Caregiving
The Training Center Interview
It was early spring when we went to the training center. I was nervous, sitting in front of three interviewers. My husband explained my nursing experience in the U.S., and I tried to add small Japanese phrases whenever I could.
They seemed kind and genuinely interested. One of them asked,
“Would you like to work while training?”
Without hesitation, I answered, “Yes.”
They smiled and said they would try to find a facility that could accommodate me. That moment gave me courage — someone believed I could do this, even in another language.
Meeting the Facility Director (所長)
Not long after, my husband received a call from a day service in Mizuho City.
They wanted to interview me directly.
This time, we met the 所長 (shochō) — the director of the facility.
It was a bright, warm afternoon, but my hands were shaking from nerves.
The director welcomed us kindly and listened as my husband explained my background again.
I managed to say, “はじめまして。よろしくおねがいします。” and smiled.
After the interview, my husband told me,
“She’s very kind. It’s rare to find a place that wants to support a foreign worker.”
A few days later, I got the call — they decided to hire me as a part-time caregiver, and I could join the training later once my Japanese improved.
Waiting and Preparing
Before I could start, there was about a month of paperwork and preparation.
They needed to process my documents, confirm insurance, and complete the necessary steps.
During that time, I continued studying Japanese at home — reviewing caregiving terms and practicing polite speech with my husband.
I was anxious but excited. It felt like waiting for a new life to begin.
My First Days on the Job
Finally, I started working. Everything was new — the daily routines, the communication style, and even how staff greeted each other every morning.
Several supervisors and senior staff personally welcomed me.
They said I was the first foreign worker in the building and that they would help me adjust. Their humility and warmth immediately put me at ease.
Communication was still difficult. Sometimes I didn’t understand instructions or needed help writing notes.
But my coworkers were patient, always explaining with gestures or kind smiles.
Even the 利用者さん (riyōsha-san) — the elderly users — supported me.
They taught me simple Japanese words and encouraged me every day.
Little by little, I began to follow conversations, answer politely, and understand more.
Even small exchanges like “おはようございます” or “ごはんおいしかった?” made me feel part of the team.
Finding My Rhythm
During my first months, I discovered the beauty of Japanese teamwork.
When something unexpected happened, everyone would gather quickly to think of a solution.
No one was ever left alone to handle a difficult situation.
Of course, there were busy days and challenging moments, but never that feeling of isolation I used to know.
Here, every effort was shared, every smile appreciated.
Even though I wasn’t a nurse anymore, I was part of a team that truly cared — and that made me proud again to be in healthcare.
What I Learned from My First Year as a Caregiver in Japan
Looking back, I can see how much this experience changed me — not only as a caregiver, but as a person.
Learning Through Communication
At the beginning, my biggest challenge was the language.
I often worried I would say something wrong or misunderstand my coworkers.
But I learned that kindness and effort can bridge many gaps that words cannot.
There were days when I couldn’t find the right Japanese word, but a smile or a simple “daijōbu desu” was enough.
My coworkers corrected me gently and celebrated small progress.
Even the users were patient. Sometimes they would say:
「ゆっくりでいいよ。」— “Take your time.”
Those small acts of kindness reminded me that caregiving is not one-sided — it’s an exchange of care, patience, and trust.
Rediscovering Teamwork
In Japan, I rediscovered what true teamwork means.
In Chicago, I often felt alone despite working in a full team.
But here, everyone helps each other.
When a user needs assistance, people step in without being asked.
When something goes wrong, everyone discusses calmly how to improve.
No blaming — just cooperation.
This spirit of 協力 (kyōryoku) — cooperation — healed something inside me.
I began to enjoy working again, not because it was easy, but because I felt supported.
A New Dream
Even though I’m not a nurse right now, I’ve found meaning again in caregiving.
Each day reminds me why I chose this path — the joy of helping, listening, and bringing comfort.
Japan taught me that dignity, respect, and teamwork are at the heart of true care.
Now, I have a new dream: to someday become a certified care worker (介護福祉士) or maybe even a nurse here in Japan.
It won’t be easy, but I finally feel hopeful again.
Reflection
When I left Chicago, I was burned out and unsure if I could ever love my profession again.
But in Gifu, I found peace.
The people I work with reminded me of the heart of caregiving — kindness without words, teamwork without ego, and gratitude for the smallest things.
Here, every “ありがとう” (thank you) feels sincere.
Every shared smile reminds me that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
Starting over didn’t mean losing who I was —
It meant finding strength and warmth in a new place.
And for that, I’m truly grateful. 🌸