The Rewards of Working in Eldercare

As the baby boomer generation begins to retire the demand for eldercare services is expected to dramatically increase. In fact, according to the Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA), there are at least 12.8 million Americans who need assistance from others to help with routine activities. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that in 2009 there were 39.6 million persons 65 years or older and by 2030 there will be around 72.1 million.

Furthermore, the rising demand for senior facilities is not only increasing by leaps and bounds but the need for eldercare providers has more than doubled. Likewise, with the current economy challenges eldercare can not only be an excellent option for reliable employment but it can bring a variety of rewards.

Types of Eldercare

There are many types of eldercare that can include adult day care, hospice, in-home care, assisted living, rest homes and long term care.

• Adult day care: A non-residential service that offers meals, recreational daytrips, social outings and general observation

• Hospice: Palliative care for the terminally ill in a facility or in their own home. Also provides support for loved ones following a death.

• In-home care: Non-custodial care that can include bathing, cooking, dressing, help with using the bathroom or getting out of bed and cleaning

• Assisted living: Independent living is no longer an option but the senior does not require 24 hour medical care. Provides assistance with outside healthcare services, daily self-care activities and observes activities to provide a safe and healthy environment

• Rest homes: The senior typically requires 24 hour care with daily self-care activities such as bathing, medication, cooking, scheduling healthcare appointments and sometimes help with eating. Generally there is always a licensed practical nurse on duty.

• Long term care: Provides both medical and non-medical care for people who cannot care for themselves. Oftentimes the person has a disability or prolonged illness. Assistance is provided for basic activities like bathing, dressing, help with medication and use of the bathroom

Rewards

The benefits of working in eldercare are numerous. Not only is eldercare rewarding but it is emotionally and physically challenging. Other eldercare rewards also include the following:

• Meet wonderful people

• Develop enjoyable lasting relationships

• Make a positive difference in the lives of the elderly

• Gives a sense of security and gratefulness to the aging

• Work independently and as part of a professional team

• Learn about history and a lifetime of experience from your client

In addition, eldercare offers financial security and is one of the few types of jobs that are projected to multiply in the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, home care aide positions are expected to be the second fastest-growing job group in the country over the next ten years.

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