Clarkston man works as caregiver at home, on the job
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On a warm spring day in Clarkston, Washington, Dean Johnson is taking Justin Bradley out for some mini golf and dinner at Lancer Lanes and Casino.
Johnson is one of Bradley’s caregivers. Bradley, who’s in his 40s, has Down syndrome. Johnson works for C&R Care, driving to the shared home of three men with developmental disabilities once a week.
“They encourage us to do a lot of one on one with these guys just for socialization skills and communication and, you know, just to get them out of the house occasionally. Be with someone new and different,” Johnson said.
When Johnson takes Bradley out of the house, the two often enjoy bowling and playing other sports. He sometimes takes Bradley to appointments, too.
“I’ve taken him to the dentist a couple times. He is the happiest guy in the dentist’s office. You just can’t believe, he’s just so happy to see everybody. He’s never afraid. He likes everybody,” Johnson said.
Justin Bradley at the mini golf course in Clarkston, Washington. (Credit: Rachel Sun / NWPB)
Johnson usually works overnight on Sundays. His shift runs from 4 p.m. until 8 a.m.
“Couple of the guys aren’t even up by the time I leave … Justin likes to sleep in,” he said.
Johnson helps Bradley watch his diet. He makes sure he washes his hands after using the bathroom — basic hygiene things.
“He’s got a wonderful personality and loves people. He’ll hug you to death if you let him,” Johnson said.
That’s something Johnson has to watch — Bradley is known to walk up to strangers.
“Just like he knew them for years, hugs them … he’s a very very warm person. He doesn’t know that sometimes people don’t like that,” Johnson said.
At home, Johnson lives with a roommate, Lane Phillips, who is in a wheelchair after a bad fall over 10 years ago.
Johnson found Phillips through a home sharing program, called Olive & Coop, in 2024. He helps him with everyday tasks around the house that would otherwise be difficult for Phillips to do on his own.
Between caring for Phillips at home and Bradley on the job, caregiving is a big part of his life.
“It’s more full time than I even think, realize,” he said.
According to a 2020 report from the AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, over 20% of Americans serve as caregivers in some capacity.
“This totals an estimated 53 million adults in the United States, up from the estimated 43.5 million caregivers in 2015,” the report reads in part.
Johnson says a lot of people like Bradley don’t get the same care, attention and structure that he does.
“It kinda makes me sad to think that you know, people, for whatever reason, kind of live without all that and definitely need that,” he said.
NWPB, in collaboration with the Lewiston City Library, invites you to join us — in person or remotely — for a screening of the new PBS documentary, “Caregiving,” followed by a panel discussion with area experts and advocates.
Inspired by executive director Bradley Cooper’s personal experience caring for his father during his battle with cancer, “Caregiving” explores the emotional and practical realities of caregiving through the stories of six diverse caregivers — from a teenager supporting his mother to a home health aide balancing work and family. Narrated by actress and former caregiver Uzo Aduba, “Caregiving” shines a much-needed spotlight on the everyday heroes providing care in homes across America.
Following the film, local caregiving advocates and professionals will lead a panel discussion sharing insights, resources and answering audience questions.
Attendees can RSVP here.
