Many people yearn for their work that makes the world a better place, but not everyone has the means or opportunity to make this a reality.
If you are looking for a job with meaning that has some flexibility and you genuinely love people, then becoming an in-home caregiver may be just the job for you.
What Is an In-Home Caregiver?
An in-home caregiver helps people who live at home but can't fully care for themselves independently. This could be anyone from a senior with limited mobility to a young person with a chronic degenerative illness such as multiple sclerosis.
Non-Medical Caregiver
"Non-medical" caregivers provide other assistance at home besides health assistance. We have many clients who are older and have mobility issues. For them, taking care of routine tasks around the home or grocery shopping can be a big deal, if not impossible. A caregiver can help around the house with light chores, provide companionship to a senior shut-in, and help them with errands and grocery store runs.
It can be a gratifying job where you can make deep connections with people, make new friends, and make a direct and impactful difference in someone else's life. The American Psychological Association reports that 83% of caregivers viewed it as a positive experience.
Flexible Scheduling for Caregivers
With many caregiving positions, scheduling can be quite flexible. Each client has their own needs, but you always have some choice in the matter. There might be a need for a client who requires at-home help Monday through Friday from 9 to 5. Or someone else might require help on the weekends. Or perhaps they want someone to stop by daily at any time within a specific range of time.
As an in-home caregiver, you are part of a team and work independently. You have a lot of choices in what you can do and which jobs you take. The U.S. Comptroller General's Office has stated that flexible schedules benefit workers and employers, increasing productivity and morale and reducing tardiness and short-term leave usage. We want to make sure that our clients are matched with caregivers who are excited and eager to work with them, so it is best for everybody if everyone is happy with the situation.
Can You Make a Difference as a Caregiver?
We can't think of many jobs where you can make such a positive impact on a person's life on a one-on-one basis.
Caregivers continue the life-saving work of medical professionals once a doctor moves on to the next patient in crisis. Caregivers work with clients over a long period, providing them support, an arm to lean on, and a friendly face to see on a regular basis.
While often stressful, the mental health benefits alone of a caregiver are tremendous. Even if you are a non-medical caregiver, you positively impact the client's health.
Why is this? Because people thrive with the care of others. It's a simple equation. Like flowers need water and sunshine to thrive, people need love, care, and attention. You can give that to someone as a caregiver. It is a highly noble and uniquely rewarding profession.
What Sort of Education Do I Need to Become a Caregiver?
Don't worry; you do not need a medical degree to be a caregiver. Non-medical caregivers do not need to have specific medical training before applying. However, it is recommended to have a basic first aid certification.
Since home care caregivers are in high demand, there are many opportunities for new people to enter the field. We encourage you to apply and talk to us first before assuming that you do not have the qualifications. You should know that you will need to pass a background check. Still, other than that, we are looking for responsible, enthusiastic people dedicated to making a difference.
Want a Flexible Career Where You Can Make a Difference?
If you'd like to make a positive impact while having some control over your schedule, consider joining the Homewatch CareGivers team. We are a premiere home care organization that serves seniors and the elderly, as well as people of all ages who need some help at home. We are dedicated to preserving dignity, independence, and safety for clients. Homewatch CareGivers is looking for new caregivers in the Chicagoland area, so apply today.
Want to learn more about becoming a caregiver? Schedule an interview today.
