Caregiver jobs are growing and this growth will continue, as new federal data for the month of May revealed that the healthcare sector was responsible for nearly 50% of new job growth this past month. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has consistently shown the healthcare industry to be a major component of the economy, maintaining 14.3 million employees as of their May reports.
Those contemplating a career change or new job opportunity may consider becoming a CNA or caregiver for a senior homecare agency. Homecare agencies are in constant need of qualified caregivers as their client needs are consistently changing. Caregiverlist’s Caregiver Career Center can be used as a tool to research training schools and required qualifications, as well as a resource to build a resume and apply for a caregiving job.
The essential job functions of a caregiver are the following:
- Assist with walking and light exercise
- Plan and prepare meals, followed by clean-up
- Monitor food expiration dates, make future meals
- Make beds and change linens, as needed
- Light housekeeping to include dusting and vacuuming
- Assist with bathing, dressing and grooming
- Assist with safe transfers and bathroom visits
- Monitor medical conditions
- Laundry and ironing
- Take out garbage
- Run errands (pickup prescriptions, dry cleaning)
- Engage in physical and mental exercises
- Provide medication reminders
- Escort an appointments (hair salon, physical therapy, etc.)
- Escort to religious services and events
- Maintain calendar and organize mail
- Engage in activities (games, memory books)
- Companionship
If the essential job duties of a caregiver interest you and you wish to join the ever-growing healthcare industry, you may research training schools in your area. You can learn more about the components of C.N.A. training here, as well as a comprehensive guide to becoming a C.N.A. here.
Additionally, you may take Caregiverlist’s Caregiver Training, which is a 10-hour online course that covers caregiving skills and includes exams to ensure understanding. Caregiverlist further offers a CNA practice test, as well as background checks.
Once you understand the essentials of caregiving and have your resume ready, you can apply for a job and begin a new career in the healthcare industry!