How to Find Your First Job as a Caregiver
With about 90% of adults 65 and older wanting to remain in their homes as they age, the demand for in-home caregivers is increasing yearly. By 2028, there will be nearly five million home care jobs available.
Are you a co-ed about to join the workforce? How about a busy parent trying to juggle kids and a career? If you’re in the market for a fulfilling and flexible role, a career in caregiving might be perfect for you.
But how can you land your first caregiving job? Use these helpful hints to start your journey to becoming a professional in-home caregiver.
Get Certified
If you plan on pursuing a caregiving career, you must get certified. While caregiving requirements vary from state to state, the Professional Association of Caregivers recommends caregivers in PA complete an eight-hour Certification Course within three months of employment.
Understand Your Role and Responsibilities
An in-home care providers primary role is assisting clients with daily tasks. These can include:
- Light housework, like washing dishes or doing laundry
- Meal planning and preparation
- Driving clients to doctor’s appointments, church, social events, or helping them run errands
- Medication management
- Helping seniors with hygiene and personal care, such as bathing and getting dressed
Your duties as a caregiver will change from day to day. It’s crucial to be flexible and adapt to your client’s changing needs.
Do Your Research
Working for a caregiving provider that cares for their clients and staff is essential. Read employee reviews of providers in your area. This gives you a sneak peek into what it’s like working for that particular employer. Avoid applying to jobs at companies with two- or three-star reviews.
Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that there are different types of caregiving roles, including overnight care, companion, personal, dementia, and Alzheimer’s care. Be sure to apply for positions that fit your skill sets and certifications.
Find a Company that Works with You
Some of the top benefits of becoming an in-home caregiver are generous pay rates and the ability to set your own schedule. However, not all caregiving providers offer these perks.
At Visiting Angels of Jenkintown, PA, our employees enjoy countless benefits, including:
- Competitive pay and benefits
- Flexible scheduling and hours for an outstanding work-life balance
- Employee recognition programs
- Ongoing training and career advancement
- Opportunities for professional development, continued education, and certifications through our “Caregiver University.”
Join Visiting Angels’ Family Today
Visiting Angels of Jenkintown, PA, is always looking for compassionate, hardworking, and certified caregivers throughout Huntingdon Valley, Jenkintown, Abington, Glenside, Flourtown, Chestnut Hill, PA, and the surrounding areas.
Feel free to explore our open employment opportunities or contact us today at (215) 509-5292 for more information. We look forward to speaking to you!