The number of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to increase from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050 (a 47% increase). This aging of the U.S. population provides both challenges and opportunities. One opportunity is the growing demand for workers with skills and expertise in senior caregiving. For those newly joining the workforce as well as those looking for a career change, working with seniors can be an enticing option.
Flexible Scheduling for Senior Caregivers
Because the need for senior caregivers is 24/7, there is likely a schedule that meets your unique needs. Many senior caregivers are able to successfully pursue this career in different stages of life, including going to school, raising a family, and looking for part-time work.
Senior Caregivers Enjoy Job Security
America’s aging population necessitates the increased demand for senior caregivers, including work opportunities in senior living communities. Senior caregivers enjoy job security not only because of the increased demand for caregivers, but also because caring for seniors is a service that cannot be replaced by technology. As the population continues to live longer without showing any signs of slowing down, more and more senior caregivers are needed, creating especially strong job security for the foreseeable future.
Professional Career Development in the Field
Working with seniors as a caregiver teaches both life lessons and professional job skills. By investing in a career in senior care, caregivers can develop professionally through training and experience that serves them well no matter where their career in healthcare leads. Working as a caregiver in a senior care community is a great way to advance a long and successful career in the field.
Senior Caregivers Make a Difference
The natural setting of a senior caregiver’s job puts them in a position to make a difference in the lives of seniors every day. Walking through life with these seniors has numerous benefits for them. Apart from the medical care that senior caregivers can provide, the emotional impact and encouragement provided simply by talking with and caring for seniors makes a huge difference in their quality of life.
This impact isn’t only felt by seniors, but also by the caregiver! Working with seniors can be incredibly rewarding on a daily basis. Kaelin Moore is the Activity Director for Garden’s of Wetumpka Assisted Living. Moore says playing bingo, leading exercise, and hosting birthday parties are fun, but the most rewarding moments are the small things. “It’s the quiet moments when you’re holding their hand while they share memories about their late husband. Or helping fasten their favorite necklace because their aging fingers just don’t want to work right. It’s these small moments that make my career as an activity director the most rewarding.”
Knowing that the work they do is important and meaningful is why job satisfaction can be so high in the senior care field. Caregivers gain valuable life experience and professional experience, all while enriching the lives of the seniors they care for.
It’s Fun to Spend Time with Seniors!
Spending time with seniors helps us recognize their importance in our lives, and it helps us be grateful for what we have and cherish the life we are living. Old age isn’t the end of life but a new beginning. Talking with your senior loved ones can give you perspective and life lessons.
Caregivers are able to connect with the seniors they look after, learning their stories and unique personalities. The humor, joy, and wisdom given by seniors all serves to make caregiving an even sweeter experience. Stephanie Brodka is the Administrator for Limestone Lodge Assisted Living and Memory Care. “Taking care of someone’s loved one is very special to me. I hold it very near and dear to my heart. I get to know each resident and their family on a personal level and I love each one like my own grandparents. They are my family.”
Interested in Becoming a Senior Caregiver?
If you are looking for a high-quality, resident-centered senior care facility to live or work in, look no further. Cavalier Senior Living is veteran owned and managed. Our communities are small, which is better for many reasons, including creating valuable bonds and genuine friendships between residents and their caregivers.
Give us a call today, or schedule a visit to see all that a Cavalier Senior Living community has to offer, both for residents and senior caregivers.
