As a caregiver, you’ll have the privilege to contribute to people’s well-being. It's a career that makes a difference in others’ lives, bringing purpose to your own. If you seek both professional and personal growth, caregiving might be for you.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of healthcare and caregiving professions. It sheds light on the essential role they play and why society always needs them.  The popularity of caregiving stems from the rewards it gives. You can make a difference in someone's life and experience emotional fulfillment too.

Different ways you can be a caregiver

There are many ways in which you can embrace your goal of being a caregiver. Training and education for this career are also accessible and convenient. Here are some paths you can take to become a caregiver:

Join an agency and get on-job training

• Networks you for employment easily
• Provides hands-on experience and guidance from seasoned professionals
• Allows you to set a strong foundation for your career.

Pursue a relevant career

• Not necessary to pursue a degree, but it will increase your marketability
• Equips you with the credibility and knowledge in patient care
• Sets you apart from other hiring candidates.

Join a school for certification and training

• Gives you the knowledge and skills essential to caregiving
• Offers opportunities for employment right away after program completion
• Provides collaboration with students and experienced trainers.

Apply for part-time positions or apprenticeships

• Provides you with skills and training that can lead to a full-time role
• Offers a chance to learn under the guidance of experienced professionals
• Provides exposure that'll help you determine your specific interest in the field.

Volunteer in your neighborhood or family

• Sets your foot to direct experience and training you can put on your resume
• Your previous participation can be your source of referrals for future prospects
• Offers a unique opportunity to understand the needs and challenges in your circle.

Important things to remember if you want to be a caregiver

A. Earn your state’s required certifications. Some states may want certifications or a certain number of training hours. Check on your state’s training requirements and qualifications. You can consider seeking your training from the following:

• Local universities
• Vocational schools
• The Red Cross
• Local and national caregiver organizations

At Dreambound, we make sure to offer you the most accessible and affordable classes you can take. You can choose your caregiving program schedule depending on your availability. By investing in your education, you’ll gain the knowledge essential to your career.‍

‍B. Seek further certifications for career advancement. Once you’re already a caregiver, you can seek extra certifications to grow your expertise. This will land you higher job prospects and boost your credentials. This is optional, but here are some beneficial certifications you can add to your roster:

• Certified Nursing Assistant
• Home Health Aid
• Hospice, Palliative, And End-Of-Life Care
• Dementia Care Certification
• Diabetes Care Certification
• Parkinson’s Assessment and Treatment Certification

Useful skills needed to be a caregiver

Having valuable skills is essential in entering this industry. This role requires a unique blend of skills to provide care. You can take your time and learn these skills along your journey of becoming a caregiver. Here are some of our recommended soft and hard skills you should have if you’re planning to be a caregiver:

• First-aid. Having knowledge of basic first aid allows caregivers to provide immediate care. They can also stabilize the individual's condition until professional medical help arrives. This is useful for minor injuries like cuts, burns, or sprains.
• Compassion and Empathy. Caregivers should have deep compassion for their patients. This includes understanding their physical, emotional, and mental needs.
• Communication Skills. Strong communication is essential to interact with patients, families, and healthcare professionals. Clear and respectful communication helps establish trust and understanding.
• Patience and Flexibility. Patience is vital so you can provide care with a calm and understanding approach. Caregivers must be flexible in their routines to meet the needs of their patients.
• Physical Stamina. Caregiving can be physically demanding when assisting individuals with mobility issues. Good physical stamina and strength are necessary to carry out these responsibilities safely.
• CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Knowing CPR enables caregivers to respond in case of life-threatening situations. You should seek proper certification and training for this one.
• Time Management and Organization. Caregivers usually have many responsibilities and tasks to handle. Time management helps them organize their duties, ensuring they provide all necessary care.
• Problem-Solving Abilities. Caregivers often encounter various challenges like managing medication and sudden health issues. Strong problem-solving enables caregivers to find solutions quickly to prevent escalation.
• Housekeeping. This may depend on the demands of your patient. This skill is beneficial because you need to keep a clean and safe environment for your patient.
• Basic Medical Knowledge. Caregivers don't need to be experts, but knowing basic medicine can be beneficial. This includes health conditions, medications, and emergency procedures. This knowledge helps caregivers in seeking and understanding appropriate medical help.

Where does a caregiver work?

You can find caregivers working in a variety of settings. They create a safe and cozy environment so their clients can enjoy a good quality of life. Check out the table below to learn more about their possible work setting.

Homecare

• Personalized care (bathing, grooming, dressing)
• Bulk meal preparation
• Companionship and interaction

Assisted Living Facilities

• Supporting daily needs
• Light chores and housekeeping
• Building social engagement

Specialized Care Settings

Pediatric Care

• Personalized care (bathing, grooming, dressing)
• Meal preparation and feeding
• Ensuring safety and interaction

Elderly Care

• Personalized care (bathing, grooming, dressing)
• Medication administration
• Meal planning, preparation, and feeding

Hospice Care

• Compassionate care for terminally ill patients
• Emotional support for families
• Ensuring patient comfort and comprehensive care

Rehabilitation Centers

• Assisting recovery from surgeries or injuries
• Helping with mobility and exercise programs
• Providing emotional support and motivation

Adult Day Cares

• Personalized care (bathing, grooming, dressing)
• Supervision and interaction

How Much Does a Caregiver Make?

Caregivers enjoy a range of positive aspects when it comes to their salaries. Many caregivers receive competitive salaries, reflecting the valuable support they provide to individuals in need. According to BLS, the median annual wage for home health aides (HHA) and personal care aides in May 2021 was $29,430. Check out the table below to learn more about its percentile wage estimate two years ago.

The hourly wage percentiles for this occupation are as follows: at the 10th percentile, the wage is $10.82 per hour; at the 25th percentile, it's $13.03 per hour. The median hourly wage, which represents the 50th percentile, is $14.51. For those at the 75th percentile, the hourly wage is $16.40, while at the 90th percentile, it's $18.44 per hour.‍

In terms of annual wages, these percentiles translate to the following: at the 10th percentile, the annual wage is approximately $22,500. For those at the 25th percentile, it's around $27,100 annually. The median annual wage, representing the 50th percentile, is approximately $30,180. At the 75th percentile, the annual wage is approximately $34,110, and at the 90th percentile, it reaches approximately $38,350 annually.

Top-paying industries for caregivers

Working as a caregiver can steer you to various industries that need you. Having knowledge of these industries puts you one step ahead of your competitors. Aim for a specific industry up in your alley to maximize your income and seek opportunities that may benefit you. According to BLS, these are the top-paying industries for caregivers in May 2021:

In the field of Individual and Family Services, the annual wage is approximately $29,670. For those working in Continuing Care Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly, the annual wage is around $29,140. In the Home Healthcare Services sector, the annual wage is approximately $28,630.‍

Final Thoughts

‍The specific requirements to become a caregiver may vary depending on the state and employer. Generally, becoming a caregiver involves obtaining relevant training, such as completing a caregiver training program, acquiring CPR and first aid certification, and meeting any additional requirements set by the hiring agency or organization.

Becoming a caregiver requires skills and a genuine commitment to helping others. To embark on this rewarding path, individuals can explore various possible avenues. It could be through seeking formal training or certifications. Gaining experience through volunteering is also one. Remember that caregiving isn't only about physical care but also about emotional connection.

Dreambound has written dozens of in-depth guides on how to get started in this field, with information specific to your city. If you're located somewhere else or thinking about moving, check out some other guides we've written:

• Caregiver classes near me in Columbus
• Caregiver classes near me in Houston
• Caregiver classes near me in Bakersfield
• Caregiver classes near me in Fresno
• Caregiver classes near me in Greensboro