What does a senior care worker do?
Senior care workers are healthcare professionals. Individuals in this role are in charge of overseeing their teams of care workers, care assistants and home carers. In their role, senior care workers care for older patients. They may work closely with nurses, doctors and other health professionals. They are often in touch with the patient’s family members to keep them up to date with the health and progress of their loved ones.
Senior Care Worker skills and qualifications
Senior care workers may spend all day with their patients. Having a caring nature and a good sense of humour is necessary for this job. The role requires patience and a good level fitness. The following skills should be kept in mind for successful candidates:
- Being caring, sensitive and understanding
- Having patience and knowing how to remain calm in stressful situations
- Being able to lead a team of care workers and having the ability to work well with other health professionals
- Being energetic, resourceful and having a caring nature
- Having an attentive ear and excellent communication skills
- Having stamina and being able to keep up with work that requires high levels of energy
- Displaying a good sense of humour
Senior care worker experience requirements
Senior care workers should have an NVQ Level 3 or equivalent. Candidates usually have a background in social care and move up the ladder with experience and by achieving the appropriate qualifications. Some senior care workers also have nursing qualifications. Some employers will require senior care workers to have a full driving licence. In addition, care workers are required to go through thorough background checks.
Senior care worker education and training requirements
Some Senior Care Workers will reach this role through a college course in care, such as a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care or Level 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management. Others will have completed a Lead Adult Care Worker advanced apprenticeship to enter this field. The apprenticeship typically takes 18 months to complete and contains a mix of workplace learning and study. Many senior care workers start as care support workers and move their way up the ladder into this senior role through training and promotions within the organisation they work for.
Senior care worker salary expectations
Salaries for a senior care worker may vary depending on the level of experience as well as the location of the job. According to Indeed Salaries, the average base salary for a senior care worker is £28,045 per year.
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Senior care worker job description FAQs
What is the difference between a care assistant and a senior care worker?
The difference between the two roles is minor. Both roles involve taking care of older people and assisting them in daily tasks as well as maintaining their health and comfort. However, a senior care worker has a certain level of experience in the profession and can lead a team of carers.
What questions should employers ask senior care workers during their interview?
The interview phase is designed to help get to know the candidate, their drive and experience. At this stage, employers can ask what attracted the individual to this profession, how they handle work under pressure and what experience they have in this field. The answers to these questions should give the employer the tools they need to make a decision.
How do you identify a good senior care worker?
Identifying a good senior care worker can sometimes be a challenge. Employers should look at how the individual relates to older people. A good senior care worker enjoys the stories, experiences and humour of older people. They also lead their teams with enthusiasm and energy.
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