Many of us have been caregivers for a loved one who needed extra help or medical support, but did you ever consider that your personal experience may lead you to an in-demand job?
The Bureau of Labor Statics indicates that caregivers, home health aides and personal aides will experience rapid growth in job opportunities, with demand doubling for these employees between 2008 and 2018. Pay for these positions is around $10 an hour, and schedules are typically part time and flexible. If you are currently caring for a loved one, consider whether you’re cut out for it professionally; many people will need compassionate care as our population ages in coming years. If you enjoy providing sensitive support for other people, now is a great time to investigate becoming trained as a home health aide, caregiver or personal aide career (regulations vary by position and by state).
Being a caregiver isn’t easy but there are lots of resources that can help you if you need advice about caring for a loved one in a home setting. Lift Caregiving has great advice to share, including an entire section dedicated to sharing advice for people who are working while being a caregiver.
Many people find that balancing a part-time or full-time job along with being a caregiver isn’t doable. But if you are considering moving into a healthcare career, taking time away from work to provide caregiving services doesn’t even result in an employment gap on your resume – it provides a seamless transition into your new role.
If you haven’t had the opportunity to be a caregiver, there are probably local volunteer organizations that could help give you a good idea whether it’s the right job for you. You may even have an elderly or sick neighbor who could use a helping hand. Even if you don’t discover a new career, you will have a positive impact on someones life which is a win-win either way!
About Amy White
I am a caregiver for my mom who is going through chemo. I also help take care of my younger brother and sister who are mentally challenged. I keep a few things in mind throughout my job search, that many others are in the same situation I am and that they’re not enough jobs to go around for all applicants. I have so much on my mind, but here isn’t the place for it.
For all those who are caregivers and looking for a job also, good luck and have faith.
Thank you for the inspiring article regarding personal caregivers…..The past year has been caregiving for 2 family members in the same household! It definitely has been challenging…BUT, the rewards are more than money can ever buy.
I have entertained the thoughts of re-entering the work-force as a companion/caregiver, although I have been trained as a Medical Assistant and Operating Room Scrub Technician, my skill set still limits me ~ and I would have to be categorized as non-medical, I can perform vitals, etc…but cannot administer meds. In looking into some postings, the majority of them all require 1-2 yrs experience and do NOT consider Personal Clients as experience..Can you believe that? Assisting 1 wheelchair bound stroke victim, and 1 elderly dementia / walker patient is NOT easy…
Thanks again, I will complete my SnagaJob profile a little later, but wanted to let you and your company know ~ I look forward to starting a successful working relationship with you all soon!
Regards,
Amelia
Caregiving is a tough job. You will be lucky if you get paid for it. So hats off to you and wish you all the best
I AM A CARE GIVER WHO IS LOOKING FOR WORK.I WII TAKE VERY GOOD CARE OF YOUR LOVE ONE.THANK YOU.