Everything you Need to Know About Working as an Aged Care Worker

1. High Demand for Professionals

The aged care sector is experiencing a significant demand for skilled workers. As the population ages, there’s an increasing need for compassionate and dedicated individuals to provide care and support to seniors. Entering this field could lead to stable employment opportunities, job security, and growth. With many organisations looking to fill positions, starting your career in aged care means you’re stepping into a field with a bright future.

2. Making a Difference

Aged care work allows you to impact the lives of individuals and their families profoundly. By providing assistance, companionship, and support, you will help improve the quality of life for elderly individuals. The rewarding feeling of making a difference in someone’s day-to-day life is unmatched and can lead to immense personal fulfilment.

3. Diverse Job Opportunities

An aged care career offers many job roles and specialisations, from personal care workers to nursing and administration. This diversity means you can find a position that aligns with your skills and interests. Whether you prefer hands-on care, management, or support roles, there’s a place for you in the aged care industry.

4. Flexible Work Hours

Many aged-care positions offer flexible scheduling, making it easier for you to balance work with personal commitments. Whether you want to work part-time, full-time, or casual, there are opportunities that cater to all needs. This flexibility can especially benefit those balancing education, family, or other responsibilities.

5. Continuous Learning and Development

The field of aged care is constantly evolving, with new practices, technologies, and methodologies emerging regularly. This creates ample opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. By pursuing a career in aged care, you can enhance your skills through training programs, workshops, and certifications, ensuring you stay current and effective in your role.

6. Building Strong Relationships

Working in aged care allows you to build meaningful relationships with elderly individuals and their families. These connections can enrich your life as you learn from their experiences, stories, and wisdom. The bonds you form in this profession can lead to a supportive community as you engage with clients, their families, and fellow workers.

7. Contribution to Society

Choosing a career in aged care is not just about employment; it’s about contributing to the wellbeing of society. You are crucial in supporting an aging population, helping them live with dignity and respect. This sense of purpose can be incredibly motivating, knowing that your work positively influences the lives of others and enhances the fabric of the community.

Aged care workers support and assist older members of our communities, either in their own homes or residential care. Aged care worker duties and responsibilities can be:

• Personal Care Assistance: Helping clients with personal hygiene, grooming, dressing, and bathing to maintain their dignity and comfort.
• Mobility Support: Assist clients in moving around, whether getting in and out of bed, walking, or using mobility aids.
• Medication Management: Administer medications as prescribed, ensuring clients follow their medication schedules correctly.
• Meal Preparation: Plan and prepare nutritious meals according to dietary needs and preferences, including assistance with feeding if necessary.
• Companionship: Provide emotional support and companionship to reduce loneliness and promote mental wellbeing.
• Household Tasks: Assist with light housekeeping duties, such as laundry, cleaning, and organising, to create a safe living environment.
• Monitoring Health: Observe and monitor clients’ health conditions, reporting any significant changes to healthcare professionals or family members.
• Transport and Accompaniment: Provide transportation for clients to appointments, social events, or activities and accompany them as needed.
• Documentation: Keep accurate records of the care provided, clients’ progress, and any incidents during shifts.
• Collaborate with Healthcare Professionals: Working alongside nurses, doctors, and other healthcare providers to ensure the best care is given.
• Supporting Activities: Encourage participation in recreational, social, and therapeutic activities tailored to clients’ interests.

For those looking to build a strong foundation in aged care, obtaining a qualification from Kirana Colleges is an excellent choice. Our Aged Care courses equip you with essential knowledge and skills, both physical and emotional, to effectively support and uplift vulnerable individuals in their time of need. With a comprehensive understanding of the industry, you’ll be well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those you care for. The most common qualification for aged care work is a CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing). Or, if you are interested in both aged care and disability support, a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) may be the right choice for you. These courses will prepare you for the following roles in aged care:

• Aged Care Worker
• Aged Care Nurse
• Assistant in Nursing (AIN)
• Care Assistant
• Home Care Assistant
• In Home Respite Worker
• Nurse’s Aide
• Residential Care Work

Entry Requirements for the care and support sector: There are no minimum standard qualifications for entry-level care and support workers. You will need a worker screening check before working in the care and support sector. Depending on your role, state or territory, and organisation, you may also need a:

• Up to date COVID-19 and/or influenza vaccination
• Working with Vulnerable People check
• Working with Children check

Many volunteer organisations provide opportunities to support residential care facilities and nursing homes. Engaging with these organisations can enhance your experience in aged care roles while positively impacting the lives of older individuals.

1. Ozharvest: This organisation connects volunteers with local care facilities, offering various roles, from social engagement to assistance with activities. They provide training and support to help volunteers feel prepared and confident in their roles.
2. NSW Government: This platform focuses on matching volunteers with specific needs in nursing homes, including companionship programs and recreational activities. Volunteers can choose times that fit their schedules, making it easy to contribute to their community.
3. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care: Known for its robust volunteer network, this organisation emphasises the importance of personal connections in aged care. 

They organise training sessions and events to ensure volunteers are well-equipped to foster relationships with residents. By participating in any of these organisations, you can gain valuable insight into aged care while enhancing the quality of life for seniors in your community.

A role in aged care support can lead to a fulfilling career and may open doors to more senior positions or other roles in the aged care sector. Potential career pathways in aged care include:

Junior

• Aged Care Worker – Most common qualification: CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) or a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) 
• Aged Care Nurse – Most common qualification: CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) or a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing & Disability) 

Mid

• Community Care Worker – Most common qualification: CHC42021 Certificate IV in Community Services

Senior

• Case Worker – Most common qualification: CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services
• Team Leader or Manager – Most common qualification: Dual CHC52021/CHC51015 Diploma of Community Services & Diploma of Counselling

A career as an aged care worker can be profoundly rewarding for those who possess compassion and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others. With the increasing demand for aged care services, now is an ideal time to enter this essential field. By obtaining the necessary qualifications, such as a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing), and gaining practical experience through volunteering, you can equip yourself with the skills needed to thrive. Whether you aspire to start as an aged care worker or aim for more advanced roles in the future, the pathway to a fulfilling career in aged care is open to you. Embrace the opportunity to support and uplift our ageing population and find a career that brings purpose and fulfilment in every interaction.  Contact a Course and Career Advisor for more information about our courses and how to get started in aged care.