Things to Know About the Aged Care Industry

1. A sense of humour is essential.

2. Bonus points if you’ve got a stash of good jokes. Most residents love to have a laugh so you need to be the sort of person that looks on the bright side of life.

3. The industry has great job security, you can work just about anywhere in Australia and overseas. It’s not unheard of for Aging Support Workers to accompany patients on overseas holidays.

4. Technology is rapidly becoming part of the job. For example, social media is a great way for residents to feel more connected and robotics are used to assist with day-to-day tasks.

5. There are even virtual reality systems to help workers get a feeling of what it’s like to live with dementia.

6. Variety. There is a huge amount of variety working in Aged Care. No two days are the same.

7. The relationships you build with the residents are remarkable. How many people can say they have 35 grandparents (or however many are in the home)?

8. Each and every resident touches your heart.

9. Most workers say that job satisfaction, job security and having a positive work environment are all reasons that they enjoy their work.

10. Aged Care is a wonderful way to leave a positive impression on those around you.

11. People tend to think that the atmosphere in Aged Care facilities is depressing, boring and lonely. HOWEVER recent research from the Queensland University of Technology suggests that many new residents in aged care facilities, actually find that the despair linked to their existence disappears, their health improves, and their social life takes off.

12. Socialization is the key to healthy ageing. The companionship and conversation you offer elderly people is something that they will truly cherish. You’ll also have the opportunity to arrange social activities and outings for your patients.

13. Of all the jobs in Australia, Aged Care sits in the top 10% of secure job industries. Australia has an aging population and unlike many other industries, caring for the elderly cannot be replaced by technology or machines.

Looking at getting into the industry?