Misconceptions About Working as a Professional Caregiver
Have you considered becoming a professional caregiver but were afraid to apply for a position because you heard misconceptions about the career and weren’t sure what was true? At Visiting Angels, we’re here to bust some of the most common misconceptions about working as a professional caregiver and give you insight into what the job is all about.
Misconception: You must have a background in nursing or health care
Having nursing or medical experience doesn’t hurt, but it is not necessary to apply for a position as an at-home caregiver. We look for kind, compassionate, hardworking, and reliable caregivers at Visiting Angels. We then provide intensive job training to ensure our caregivers have the skills and tools to deliver quality at-home care to clients. Training includes understanding how to work with all types of clients, from seniors looking for companionship to older adults living with dementia.
Misconception: You should know how to perform basic medical tasks
Professional caregivers are not the same as nurses or professional medical staff. As a caregiver, you’re responsible for helping clients with various nonmedical tasks. These tasks can include light housekeeping, cooking, transportation, personal grooming, mobility assistance, or medication reminders. A caregiver will never be expected to and is discouraged from performing medical tasks, including removing bandages, clipping fingernails, or administering medications.
Misconception: Caregiving is mentally demanding
Like any job, there will be days that are harder than others. But ask any professional caregiver, and they’ll likely rave that the job is rewarding more days than not. At the end of each workday, you can see the difference you’ve made in someone’s life. Many clients rely on their caregivers to age safely and comfortably at home, and they’re more than willing to express their appreciation and gratitude. And at times, if you feel overwhelmed, we provide paid time off to relax and recharge.
Misconception: You’ll be on call 24/7
Some professional caregivers work as live-in caregivers, meaning they provide around-the-clock assistance to their clients. Still, many caregivers enjoy a full-time (40 hours per week) or part-time position. As a professional caregiver, you are only responsible for your client during the hours you are at their home. That means when your shift is over, clients do not have access to your personal contact information and cannot reach out to you during your off time. This allows you to keep a healthy work-life balance and enjoy your time off.
Misconception: You’re alone in caregiving
When working with a client at home, you will often be the only professional caregiver on-site, but that does not mean you’re in the caregiving journey alone. As a caregiver with Visiting Angels, you’ll build connections with other caregivers, care managers, and office staff who are willing to assist whenever you need it. We strive for an open and inclusive environment and encourage our caregivers to ask questions and continue learning to provide the best possible care for clients.
Why Work with Visiting Angels?
If you’re ready to start your journey as a professional caregiver, consider working with Visiting Angels Flagstaff. Visiting Angels is a locally owned and operated agency providing quality at-home care to seniors in our community. We offer competitive pay, flexible hours, bonus opportunities, paid training, paid time off, reimbursable mileage, and more!
Are you ready to explore a career as a professional caregiver with Visiting Angels? We’re currently hiring full-time and part-time caregivers. Use this link to apply today!