Care Home work

[tinsel1957]

I'm 51 years old and looking for a change in direction career wise. Can anyone tell me the pros and cons of working as a care assistant in a residential nursing/rest home and what qualities you need? Any advice gratefully received.

[sara3]

it's not my area but common sense tells me it's the job for you if.. you're kind and caring, patient, and okay with wiping bottoms etc! I did this for 1 week when was very young and spent all my time cleaning horrible messes in the toilets.. although I think they were taking liberties with the new girl!

on the downside, they need 24 cover so maybe shift work, there's a degree of lifting and moving people so hard on your back, and I guess it can be a bit soul destroying at times.

but if it's for you, I wish you all the best :o)

[saxy_jag]

It's physically and emotionally tough. You'd be expected to clean up mess from both floors and residents, the latter of which may not exactly grateful for your assistance. Depending on the home's policy, you might be required to cook and do kitchen duties too. As Sara says, there's a lot of shift working, and you don't get paid that much for doing it.


On the other hand, you can change people's lives, often with the smallest action, and you'll meet as many grateful residents and their families as not. Despite the downs, a lot of people do the work and wouldn't swop it for any other job in the world.

[sjwright]

Hi

I did this type of work for a very short time, I was not prepared at all for that type of work. Basically I am not a patient person so I coudn't do that type of work.

I think you would need to be a very patient person to even considering working with the less able and elderly.

[tinsel1957]

Thank you so much for your views. They have been very helpful and I shall give them careful consideration.