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Sungaya Watson has been a full-time caregiver for almost a year. Her entry into skilled caregiving began with a deeply personal connection—her 12-year-old son, who has autism. Nonverbal, with sensory processing disorder and a low IQ, her son requires constant supervision, guidance, and care.

Sungaya’s decision to take on this role full-time arose out of a realization that no one else could understand her son’s needs as intimately as she could. “Full-time caregiving was something I hadn’t even considered at first,” Sungaya reflects.

Bringing Autism Care Home and Embracing the Caregiver Role

Initially, her son attended public school and received Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy for his autism. However, despite their best efforts, Sungaya realized her son struggled with new caregivers and environments. “It was maybe a matter of trust, but I knew I was the one person who could provide the guidance and oversight he needed every day, hour by hour, minute by minute.”

For Sungaya, caregiving has become more than just a duty. It is a lifelong commitment she has embraced with a sense of responsibility and love. Her experience has given her unique insights into the caregiving world, not just for her son, but for others in her family and community as well. She acknowledges the joy she finds in caring for elderly family members and the satisfaction of listening to their stories.

Caregiving is not just about addressing physical needs. It is also about providing emotional support and companionship.”

“Life doesn’t stop because of someone’s ability or age,” she says. “We all have the right to live a good quality of life. I think in our society, we can all contribute to that in some way—whether it’s as simple as providing a meal or conversation, or more complex care like attending to a wound.”

How CCA’s IHSS Program Transformed a Mother’s Caregiving Path

Sungaya became involved with the Center for Caregiver Advancement through the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program. Although she already knew how to care for her son, Sungaya was eager to take the classes on autism caregiving offered by CCA to further her skills.

“I don’t want to be just a regular care provider,” she says. “I want to learn the correct methods and protocols so that if I’m helping others in my community, I can be properly educated and do it right.”

The CCA training, which follows person-centered care principles, has been transformative for Sungaya. It has reshaped her perspective on caregiving, making her approach more structured and thoughtful.

Caregiver training is more than providing personal care. It’s about expanding your mindset, learning new ideas, and ensuring things are done properly and in tune with the needs of the person you’re caring for.”

Sungaya appreciated that the caregiving curriculum provided by CCA included the mental and spiritual aspects of health and well-being. “We all experience anxiety, depression, joy, or happiness. It’s all energy, and it’s important to learn how to handle those different emotions when they come up.”

She sees potential for even more courses that teach caregivers how to address the mental and emotional needs of those they care for, while also addressing their own needs. “It’s about bringing balance to the care you provide, not just for your care consumers or family members, but for yourself as well.”

Words of Wisdom: Advice for New Caregivers Starting Out

To anyone beginning their caregiving journey, Sungaya offers this advice: “Get educated. Learn what person-centered care truly means, and understand the IHSS standards. It brings balance to the care you provide and helps you feel confident and prepared.”

Caregiving, she believes, goes beyond a profession—it’s a life experience that allows people to give and receive in profound ways. “Be flexible, adaptable, and open. Caregiving is not just a job; it’s a gift. You get to embrace the journey, learn from others, and contribute to the lives of those you care for. And in turn, it enriches your own life.”

Finding Strength in Community and the Power of Shared Stories

One of the things Sungaya appreciates most about the CCA program is the sense of camaraderie that develops in the classes. “Everybody’s story resonates, whether your care consumer is a 12-year-old child or a 70-year-old adult.”

Sungaya believes caregiving is about the entire community coming together to support one another.

We all have something to share, something to give, and something to learn. In the blink of any eye, anyone can suddenly need caregiving. That’s why it’s important to share your time, your skills, and your abilities with others.”

Sungaya’s personal motto captures the essence of her caregiving philosophy: “I merge the journey of spirit, home, and community. Caring for one another is at the heart of what I do.”

As she continues to care for her son and considers expanding her role in her community, Sungaya is thankful for the education she has received and the supportive network she has found through CCA. “It’s been a mind-opening experience. I’m very grateful.”

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