How to Get a Job Taking Care of the Elderly in Their Homes

There are several options for finding a job taking care of the elderly in their homes. Some job titles include home health aides, certified nursing assistants, personal care aides, caregivers and companions. The health care field needs people to care for the aging population and in-home care is less expensive than long-term care facilities. Many seniors prefer staying in their own homes and just need help with housework and cooking meals.

Instructions

• 1

  Inquire about certifications or training requirements for your state. Companions and homemakers do not need to be certified because they do not perform any personal care. Some states require home health aides, caregivers and nursing assistants to be certified and require proof of attendance in a training program. You may also be required to have a TB test and current CPR card. Not all employers will require these things upfront, but be advised, you will need to get them in the near future.

• 2

  Check out the classified ads in your local newspaper. The classified page of the newspaper lists available jobs in the private sector as well as licensed care agencies and facilities. These jobs may be listed under "Caregiver or Personal Care Attendant." You may also choose to place an ad yourself under the listing of "Jobs Wanted."

• 3

  Register with a home health care agency. Call and make an appointment with a local home health agency in your area. The job of home health agencies is to provide caregivers and medical personnel for clients registered with the agency. They carefully screen each applicant and try to make the best match between client and caregiver. The pay is generally above minimum wage and may or may not include health care benefits. You can work full or part time as long as you choose.

• 4

  Network online with other caregivers and people wanting to hire a caregiver. Join a caregivers association and post your resume online on one of the many job boards available.

• 5

  Apply for a position at a retirement or assisted living community. Assisted living communities need caregivers to help active seniors maintain their independence. Some communities have separate apartments for each resident and you may be assigned several residents to help on a daily basis. The work is generally related to housekeeping and assistance with bathing and grooming.

• 6

  Ask a friend to refer you to someone who may be looking to hire a caregiver. Job opportunities often come from word-of-mouth referrals.