Is Caregiving Right for You?

Working as a professional caregiver is one of the most rewarding career options for many individuals. However, caregiving takes a lot of hard work and discipline, and not every individual has what it takes for a successful run. If you’re contemplating becoming a professional caregiver, you may want to consider the following questions to ensure caregiving is right for you. 

Do you find joy and fulfillment in helping others?

Caregiving is about helping older adults with daily living activities, so they can comfortably and safely remain at home. You’ll often help with nonmedical tasks like light housekeeping, meal preparations, medication reminders, or transportation. Some clients may require more hands-on assistance with bathing, dressing, or grooming. 

This line of work requires selflessness, and you should find joy and fulfillment in helping others. You should be the type who doesn’t mind stepping out of your way to help a neighbor or friend. Or the individual who looks forward to volunteering in their community. 

Are you capable of managing and motivating yourself?

Working as a professional caregiver is excellent for individuals who know how to manage and motivate themselves. You won’t have anyone micromanaging your work when you’re a caregiver. No micromanagement means it’s your responsibility to ensure you complete all your tasks during your shifts and to complete them to the best of your ability. Working alone with your client also means you’re responsible for keeping yourself motivated and accountable for your job. 

However, because most of your time is spent alone with clients doesn’t mean you won’t have resources when you need help. At Visiting Angels, our office staff can answer questions or guide your shifts. You’ll also have an incredible network of other caregivers to turn to when days get tough. 

Can you effectively communicate with others?

Communication is one of the most critical skills professional caregivers should possess. As a caregiver, you’ll need to feel comfortable communicating, sometimes sensitive material, to clients and their families. The stronger your communication with clients, the more respectful and trusting you will have with them. 

Beyond your communications with clients, you’ll also need to communicate effectively with your team. You’ll want to ensure the office staff is up-to-date with the happenings of your client in case the family reaches out with questions. You may also need to communicate with fellow caregivers who work with your client or sub for you while you’re away. 

Do non-traditional work hours work for your schedule?

Caregiving may not be the best fit for a job that follows traditional nine-to-five weekday hours. Caregiving hours are flexible, and there are part-time and full-time positions available. However, work schedules can vary depending on your clients. Some clients may need early morning or late night assistance, while others may request weekend or overnight caregivers. At Visiting Angels, we do our best to match caregivers with clients with similar schedules. We also have plenty of bonus opportunities to pick up extra shifts for lighter weeks.

Are you ready to join an at-home care agency?

If you think you have what it takes to work as a successful at-home caregiver, the team at Visiting Angels would love to connect. Our Farmington office works with seniors and families in Farmington, Aztec, Bloomfield, Navajo, Dam, Flora Visita, and the surrounding New Mexico communities. If you think caregiving is the right career move for you, the team at Visiting Angels would love to connect. If you want to learn more about career opportunities with Visiting Angels, apply online or call 505. 516.1150.