I'm looking to change career pathways and am interested in aged care. I don't have any medical training (no nursing, but I do have senior first aid) and wondering what the best courses or pathways I should be looking into. How long are they?
I have no idea where to start, but have called and left messages with several health care providers and am just waiting back to hear from them so thought I'd ask here too. I would ulitimately like to work in community and in home care.
Am I dreaming that I will be able to follow this path and work school hours? Within reason obviously. What is the pay like and is there even a demand for people in this area? I know it can be tough work, but am I right in thinking the rewards are more than worth it?
Thanks in advance!!
2 Replies
Start with cert 3 in Aging Care, I'm currently studying this online with a training group called Alffie. Tafe offers these courses too, you'll need your cert 3 just to get an entry level job but there is always work in the aged care sector.
Hi there, I have been working in aged care for a bit over 3 years now. There are some facilities that will employ people who do not have Cert 111 in aged care, as long as you have current first aid qualifications and have a police record check. I would encourage you to enquire with your local TAFE about doing your Cert 111 as it gives you a good knowledge basis, and also gives you work based training. Aged care is not for everyone, it can be physically and emotionally demanding, but if you have a passion for looking after the elderly I would say go for it. It is shift work, with alternating morning/evening/ night shifts, but depending on your employer, you may be able to negotiate on the hours you can work. Best of luck!