Caregivers

What Does a Caregiver Do?

Caregivers are individuals that take care of others, including children, seniors, or pets, either in the home environment or at a facility that specializes in their care. If you like to take care of others or animals, this is a rewarding career that does not require a degree in higher education. There are certifications that may be worth pursuing in all the below areas of care.

Adult Caregivers + Companions

Responsibilities of the adult caregiver include monitoring health needs and assisting with basic daily needs of preparing and helping with meals and feeding, dressing, monitoring medication, and bathing. It is a growing field and now encompasses personal shoppers for groceries or pharmacy needs, as well as transportation to doctor’s appointments or therapy. Companions can also assist with non-medical care for socialization or light housekeeping duties.

Childcare

Jobs can be found at daycare centers, worksites, pre-schools, and learning centers. Childcare can also include being a nanny and taking care of children for an individual family. Varied responsibilities can include picking children up at school or preparing an evening meal.

Pet Care + Pet Grooming

A new and growing field in pet care. There are increasing numbers of pet daycare centers that require full-time pet caretakers to supervise playrooms and socialization areas for dogs. A demand for dog walkers, dog sitters, and pet grooming is also on the rise and lends itself to flexible hours.

Types of Jobs

  • Caregiver
  • Adult day care worker
  • Companions for seniors
  • Child day care worker
  • Nanny
  • Babysitter
  • Mother’s helpers
  • Personal shoppers
  • Drivers
  • Pet sitters
  • Pet day care worker
  • Pet care – shelter or rescue group
  • Pet grooming

caregivers

Requirements

  • Educational requirements vary significantly based on the job
  • Some positions may provide on-the-job training, while others may require a college degree
  • Certification in a trade area may improve your chances of job security

Vocational Training for Caregivers

Accredited Schools

Also See

View other careers