Visiting Angels, the nation’s leading provider of in-home senior care, is thrilled to announce Michele Kaiser as its 2024 National Caregiver of the Year.

Michele, a caregiver for Visiting Angels Tallmadge, Ohio, owned by Jodi Wood, was selected for the prestigious honor from a long list of nominations submitted by the company’s 600 franchise locations. The award recognizes Michele for going above and beyond the role of a caregiver and her overall commitment to delivering quality, compassionate care to the clients and families she serves.

“She’s a rock providing seniors with exceptional care for more than nine years,” said Marisa Wood, the Chief Administrative Officer of Visiting Angels Tallmadge. “Michele anticipates her clients’ needs, often going to great lengths to ensure they receive the best possible care, representing the heart and soul of Visiting Angels."

During Michele’s tenure with Visiting Angels Tallmadge, she has had near-perfect attendance, providing over 18,000 hours of care. She’s cared for one client for nine years, showing an unwavering dedication to her job. Michele has also recommended that one of her main clients receive respite care, meaning she would lose hours. However, after receiving respite care, the client experienced a positive mental change. 

“Michele is so full of compassion and understanding. She took the time to talk with my mom, find out what she likes and dislikes, and how she felt she needed the most help,” said Sue D., a client's daughter. “My mom wasn’t trusting of anyone caring for her, but Michele made her feel comfortable and secure right off the bat.”

In addition to providing outstanding care for her clients, Michele also finds time to volunteer with the Challenger Baseball League, an adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges.

“Michele’s tireless commitment to her clients and community sets a standard of excellence that inspires us all at Visiting Angels,” said Larry Meigs, CEO of Visiting Angels. “She truly embodies the essence of what it means to provide compassionate, dedicated, and personalized care. Receiving the prestigious title of Caregiver of the Year is no small feat, and Michele has certainly earned it through her steadfast dedication to her profession.”

As Caregiver of the Year, Michele received an award and was recently recognized at the Visiting Angels Annual Conference in June.