What is Aged Care?
Aged care is a vital sector of the healthcare industry that caters to the needs of elderly people. It encompasses a wide range of services, from personal care and household tasks to nursing and medical assistance. You can also work in a variety of care settings, including residential and in-home care.
Aged care workers have an important role to play. They are tasked with supporting the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of elderly clients. Their goal is to ensure they get the best possible care and quality of life.
Aged care worker duties and responsibilities
An aged care worker has a variety of duties and responsibilities. These depend on their role and the level of care they offer. Some common duties include:
- Assisting with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Preparing and serving meals, and providing assistance with eating and drinking
- Performing household tasks, such as cleaning, laundry, and shopping
- Administering medication and monitoring health conditions
- Providing emotional support and companionship, and engaging clients in activities
- Liaising with other healthcare professionals and family members
Aged care worker industry
The aged care industry plays an important role in the community services industry, providing support and assistance to elderly Australians who require help in their daily lives. Aged care workers provide a range of services, including personal care, domestic assistance, social support, and nursing care.
The demand for aged care workers is expected to grow 28% by 2026 to the ageing population in Australia, with an estimated 25% of the population aged 65 and over by 2056. This will create a significant demand for aged care services, making it a stable and secure industry for those who are interested in pursuing a career in this field
Only 32% of workers are full-time as it’s more common to work on a part-time basis. The average aged care worker’s salary is $50,000 – $60,000 which is an hourly rate of $25-$35.
What aged care worker jobs can I do?
There are various aged care jobs, from entry-level roles to more advanced positions. Some examples include:
With the growing demand for aged care services, there are also plenty of opportunities for career progression and professional development.
What course should I do to become an aged care worker?
To become an aged care worker, you can study the entry-level qualification Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing). This course provides you with the skill set and knowledge needed to work in aged care, disability care, and home and community care. It covers topics such as:
- Providing individualised support and care to clients
- Supporting independence and wellbeing
- Working with cultural diversity
- Implementing infection prevention and control procedures
- Communicating effectively with clients, families, and colleagues
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is also a popular course and builds on Certificate III. In this course you’ll learn about:
- Dementia and palliative care
- Implementing interventions with older people at risk
- Providing person-centered support services
- Meeting personal needs
- Supporting independence and wellbeing
Studying aged care courses online and at your own pace which offers flexibility and convenience. It enables you to balance your studies with work and other commitments..
Is aged care right for you?
Being a carer in aged care sector is a challenging yet rewarding career. It requires compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others.
If you’re a people person who enjoys taking care of others, then aged care might be the perfect career for you. With the right aged care training, you create a fulfilling career as an aged care worker and make a positive impact.
At Training.com.au, we offer a range of aged care courses online that will kick-start your career in aged care. Browse aged care courses today and start working towards a career you’re passionate about.