Who Are Direct Care Workers and How to Become One?
At TruCare, we believe that no one should suffer as a consequence of their age. To help make this a reality, we have a team of dedicated, experienced, and passionate caregivers who go out into the community every day to better the lives of seniors living in their own homes. But, what exactly does a direct care worker do? And how can you become one? This blog post will tell you everything you need to know about what they do and how you can join them.
A day in the life of a caregiver
As we age, one of the things we worry about losing the most is our independence. This is where direct care workers come in. They allow those who struggle to perform necessary daily tasks to retain their independence by providing them help and care in the comfort of their own home. Here are just a few of the typical tasks that direct care workers undertake every day:
- Ensuring medication is taken at the right time and in the correct way.
- Running errands such as delivering or picking up mail, going grocery shopping, or driving their client to
- medical appointments.
- Cleaning and tidying for those who struggle to maintain a clean home.
- Preparing meals for those that struggle to regularly cook hot meals. This is also a chance to ensure that the client is eating a healthy, balanced diet.
- Helping with the client’s personal hygiene by providing help with bathing.
- Administering personal care.
- Providing in-home care.
Some of these tasks may seem mundane and easy now, but as we age, they become more and more difficult, so there must be someone there to offer that little bit of extra help we need once we reach this critical age. Some clients are suspicious about the benefits of direct care workers at first, but they soon find themselves wondering how they ever lived without one!
Thinking of becoming a direct care worker?
Being a caregiver is one of the most fulfilling careers anyone can go into. The joy and pride that comes with helping people live a better life is something that can’t be understated. For this reason, those that have a passion for helping others and want to make a difference to society make the best direct care workers. But home care isn’t all fun and games. Many of the tasks can be unpleasant, emotionally challenging, and physically difficult, so the job isn’t for the fainthearted. Only those who truly want to make a difference will have the drive to make it in this profession!
Of course, there’s more to becoming a caregiver than just drive and ambition – you also need qualifications and training. Most training takes place on the job as direct care workers aren’t required to have a degree or high school diploma. However, the training implemented by the home care agency can be grueling and difficult. At TruCare, we want only the best working for us, so our comprehensive training plan that includes on the job training isn’t a walk in the park by any means.
There are also some qualifications that can help you prove your competency as a direct care worker, although they’re usually not a requirement. The National Association of Home Care and Hospice offers a national certification that is not typically required for employment but is a good indicator that you have had experience and training in the field. In addition, becoming a licensed vocational nurse or a certified nursing assistant will also put you in an advantageous position for a career in caregiving.
Direct care workers have one of the most challenging yet rewarding jobs – but it certainly isn’t boring! A drive for helping those in need, a passion for making a difference, and the willingness to roll up your sleeves and put in some hard work are the main attributes needed to become one. If this sounds like it could be you, why not apply for a position here at TruCare? We’re always on the lookout for passionate people to join our team!
