An alarming crisis is spreading across America and the health care sector. In the face of alarming demographic changes, there will be an enormous increase in America's elderly population in the next few decades, while the traditional labor pool for caregivers -- women from their mid-20s to mid-50s -- will scarcely grow at all.
Federal statistics suggest that about 3 million people currently work in direct-care jobs, mainly with the elderly, as nursing assistants, home health aides and personal care aides. Experts project there will be demand for nearly 1 million more caregivers in the next decade, and perhaps a total of 3 million more by 2030 when all surviving members of the 78-million-strong boomer generation are older than 65.
But many local home health agencies, assisted living centers and nursing homes are already acutely aware of the crisis. As new facilities are built to accommodate the growing need, the question remains - who will fill the ever-growing demand for qualified, caring and dependable caregivers? The answer may surprise you - it could be you!
Anyone who has a love for people and a strong desire to help others, especially the sick and elderly, should look into caregiving as a career. Most of the nursing homes and home health agencies require that employees be a Certified Nursing Assistant, but many in-home nonmedical providers that are licensed as Personal happinesslifetime.com Care Agencies do not require caregivers be CNA's. Most CNA programs range between 80 to 110 hours of instruction, with some hours spent performing hands-on care in a health care setting.
After completion of the course, a state certification written examination is required. Many CNA's continue their education and become licensed practical nurses or registered nurses. With the vast employment opportunities for all three of these health care professions, they are excellent career pathways for people who are truly dedicated to helping other people and looking for a satisfying and rewarding career.
In-home non-medical and personal happinesslifetime.com care agencies such as Comfort Keepers, which are licensed by the state, do not require that caregivers be CNA's, but look for people with life experience. This is basically the ability to care for and interact with seniors on a mature, socially engaging manner. It is also a great part-time job for people who may be retired, or someone looking to supplement their income.
Because in-home assignments never follow a strict 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule, the flexibility can be very convenient for stayat- home moms or those with other obligations. For people asking themselves whether caregiving or nursing would be the type of career they would enjoy pursuing, working for this type of agency is a great first step.
For questions, or to inquire about becoming a caregiver, please call (801) 629-HOME or (800) 593- 6808.
Louie Frucci
Certified Senior Advisor
Simply Seniors News
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