Many people become the primary caregivers for aging parents and other loved ones. While you want to provide the level of support they need, there are several logistics to consider before immersing yourself in this role. At Liberty Resources Home Choices, we work with individuals and families across the Delaware Valley and know first-hand what it takes to be a caregiver. Here, we discuss how to become a caregiver that’s paid for their services.
What Is a Caregiver?
A caregiver is someone who takes care of an individual in their home who cannot take care of themselves. Many caregivers, or direct care workers, are professionals employed by homecare agencies, like Liberty Resources Home Choices. However, other people may simply fall into the role – unpaid – as their parents age or siblings with disabilities require greater at-home assistance. While this role may provide a significant sense of personal fulfillment, it’s not without its challenges, especially in long-term arrangements.
What Does a Caregiver Do?
The level of support provided by the average caregiver varies greatly. This role depends on several factors, such as the loved one’s current abilities or physical and mental health status. Some family members may care for elderly parents as they recover from an injury or surgery, assisting for only a few weeks or months at a time, while others could become the primary caregiver for a parent with disabilities or chronic illness who needs 24/7 support.
Depending on the situation, the duties of a family caregiver may include:
- Personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Homemaking tasks, like laundry, vacuuming, and dusting
- Grocery shopping and meal preparation
- Mobility and transfer assistance
- Toileting and incontinence care
- Transportation
Another big part of in-home care is companionship. For many people, their caregiver is the person they rely on for social interaction at home as well as in the community. They combat loneliness and isolation among elderly individuals who cannot go out by themselves and provide emotional support during everyday challenges.
Another important piece of the puzzle is good communication. It’s not always easy for aging adults to admit they need more help in their golden years, but clear, compassionate communication can strengthen the relationship you have with your loved one in this newfound role. Also, you may need to coordinate with their physicians and other family members to ensure everyone involved is in the loop.
Can I Get Paid for Taking Care of My Elderly Parent?
The good news is that, yes, you can get paid for taking care of an elderly parent. Caregiving duties can take up quite a bit of your time and can even make it difficult to maintain your current career. If you want to become a full-time caregiver for a parent, Liberty Resources Home Choices can help you make ends meet.
We hire people just like you to do the work you’re already doing. As a division of Liberty Resources, Inc., in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Liberty Resources Home Choices employs direct care workers throughout the region. If you’re located nearby, you can apply for employment with us and get paid to take care of your loved one. Aside from offsetting the costs associated with switching or losing careers, the benefits of becoming one of our caregivers include:
- 24/7 shifts: No matter when you’re supporting your loved one, we can pay you for the job.
- Competitive compensation: You’re part of a team, not a private contractor. Payroll taxes are automatically deducted from your paycheck.
- Benefits package: Our employees have access to health insurance, life insurance, paid time off (PTO), and a wellness program.
- Professional training: Extended training and educational opportunities can help you become better equipped for home care as your loved one’s needs evolve down the road.
Apply for Caregiver Jobs at Liberty Resources Home Choices
Learn more about how to become a caregiver with Liberty Resources Home Choices. A career with us can help ease the extensive time and financial commitments associated with in-home care so you can focus on your loved one and enjoy this quality time together. We have offices in Allentown and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Contact us to explore your options and apply to become a direct care worker.
