As the financial crisis in the U.S. continues to unravel and we experience an increase in unemployment, it is relevant to note the ongoing shortage of qualified caregivers in many cities across the U.S.
If you are transitioning in the job market, or looking for fulfilling part-time work, you may want to consider working as a senior caregiver.
Senior Home Care Agencies, Assisted Living Communities and Nursing Homes hire part-time and full-time caregivers to assist seniors with Activities of Daily Living. Many Senior Home Care Agencies also hire 24-hour “live-in” caregivers. Live-in means the caregiver stays with the senior for a few days at a time, preparing meals and eating with the client, and sleeping over night but they do not actually permanently live with the senior client. A minimum of two caregivers will staff a live-in client, rotating days during the week to meet employment law requirements.
What experience is required? Companion caregivers, Certified Nursing Aides and Home Health Aides are hired as Caregivers. Some of the best professional caregivers gained personal experience first by caring for a family member or friend. Many Senior Home Care Agencies provide caregiver training on senior care. Caregiver training may include specialty training for stroke care, dementia care, hospice care and education on age-related diseases.
Certification as a Nursing Aide can be obtained from nursing schools or community colleges. Sometimes social service agencies and health care companies sponsor certification programs. The nursing aide certification requirements vary in each state. Most nursing aide certification classes can be completed in 6 to 12 weeks.
Caregivers earn from $8.00 to $14.00 per hour and from $90 to $140 per day for live-in care, depending on the geographic location. The hiring company provides for payroll taxes and Worker’s Compensation insurance and other benefits
Senior care delivers fulfillment beyond a paycheck. If you enjoyed visiting your Grandparents and appreciate the wisdom an older adult can share, you will probably enjoy working as a caregiver. A caring personality, patience and dependability are qualities which senior care companies look for in caregivers. Caregiver job applicants will also be required to pass a criminal background check.
If you are interested in working as a caregiver, contact your local Department on Aging for names of local companies which may be hiring or fill out a Caregiver Job Application on Caregiverlist. You may also want to look into volunteer opportunities through local churches and senior centers to gain experience.
