What does an Aged Care Worker do?
Aged Care Workers are employed by private or public healthcare providers to assist in the daily care of elderly persons. They often live in a patient’s home to provide daily care. Aside from shopping, preparing food and housekeeping, Aged Care Workers monitor or administer medication under the supervision of a Physician or Nurse. They also train patients to care for themselves and teach family members about proper bedside care.
Aged Care Worker skills and qualifications
Aged Care Workers need a variety of skills and qualifications to perform their duties effectively. These skills and qualifications include:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Thorough attention to detail and organisation skills
- Knowledge of first aid and ability to handle medical emergencies
- Ability to manage stress
- Flexibility and time management skills
- Valid driver’s licence
- Previous nursing experience
Aged Care Worker experience requirements
A strong foundation in physical therapy, food preparation and health and human services is usually required for an Aged Care Worker position. Many employers prefer candidates who have several years of nursing experience. Some employers accept candidates who have worked in a voluntary charity position, at a local authority’s social service department or in a public healthcare facility.
Aged Care Worker education and training requirements
An Aged Care Worker position doesn’t require candidates to have academic qualifications like degrees, A-levels or GCSEs. However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed a first aid training and obtained an NVQ in NVQ in Health and Social Care, Levels 2 and 3.
Some employers require newly hired Aged Care Workers to complete on-the-job training, which often includes shadowing a current Aged Care Worker or a healthcare professional and carrying out duties under supervision until the trainee is ready or comfortable to complete the tasks on their own.
Aged Care Worker salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an Aged Care Worker is £10.48 per hour. Actual salary varies depending on several factors, including experience, location and company.
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