For many Filipinos, the decision to leave home and work abroad is rooted in the desire to provide a better life for their families. This was true for Maria, a 47-year-old caregiver from Iloilo, whose journey took her to Switzerland. For a decade, she worked tirelessly to earn enough to support her paralyzed sister and elderly mother back home.

As a live-in caregiver, Maria worked for an elderly couple, providing them with daily assistance, companionship and emotional support. The remittances she sent home also ensured her mother and sister could live a healthy and comfortable life.

“My brother worked in Switzerland before me. He helped me navigate my journey as a migrant worker,” Maria shared. “I wanted to give my family a stable life.”

Maria spent nearly a decade caring for others with patience and compassion. She found purpose in helping those in need.

But her life changed dramatically after a serious accident.

Following multiple surgeries, Maria was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Unable to continue working, she faced the reality of losing her livelihood and made the difficult decision to return home to the comfort of those who could love and care for her.

Maria’s former employer, aware of her difficult circumstances, sought help from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Through IOM’s Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programme, Maria was able to safely return to the Philippines two years ago.

Since 2023, IOM has helped over 200 Filipino nationals like Maria to voluntarily return home, providing each one with assistance tailored to their specific needs. For Maria, this included temporary financial assistance for medication and check-ups to help manage her Alzheimer’s symptoms.

“IOM made my journey home possible,” Maria said. “They helped me get the care I needed to manage my condition and start rebuilding my life.”

Back in her hometown in Iloilo, Maria was welcomed by her family with open arms. She initially worried she might become a burden on her loved ones, but quickly realized that her family’s love and support were unwavering.

The reintegration assistance provided by IOM helped to ease Maria’s transition home, providing stability until her family could take on the costs of her care.

Her sister had opened a small store providing daily income, while her brother and relatives continued to offer financial support. Together they ensured that Maria could adjust to life back home.

“We are so proud of Maria. She worked so hard for us, and now it’s our turn to care for her. We face each day with laughter and love,” shared Maria’s mother.

Since coming home, Maria has rediscovered her passion for cooking, a skill she cherishes despite occasional memory lapses.

“Cooking makes me happy,” Maria said. “Sometimes I forget the recipes, but my family helps me and we turn it into a fun moment.”

Living with Alzheimer’s has its challenges. Maria often struggles with memory loss and occasionally wanders from home. Yet, her community is there to support her every step of the way.

“When I lose my way, my neighbours recognize me and help me get home,” Maria said. “It reminds me that I am not alone.”

Maria’s story is a testament to the resilience of migrant workers and the importance of a strong support system for returnees. Her experience speaks to the strength of migrant families, where love and compassion overcome even the toughest challenges.

“The support I received from my family gives me hope,” Maria said. “I may not be the same person I was before, but I’m still here finding joy in small things and moving forward. I want my fellow migrants to know that it’s okay to come home and ask for help. There is always a way to start again - you don’t have to do it alone.”

IOM Switzerland, in cooperation with Cantonal Authorities, the Swiss Government, NGOs and international organizations, facilitates the safe and dignified return of vulnerable migrants to their home countries. They are provided with needs-based reintegration assistance to help them start anew.