Working in aged care is an enormously rewarding and fulfilling career. It’s also an industry experiencing significant growth as our population ages, which means that there’s no shortage of jobs and plenty of opportunity for professional advancement.

But as you finish your studies and start to plan your future, what does it look like? The aged care sector is very large and diverse and it offers a plethora of different employment options. At Yorke Institute, we encourage our students to think more specifically about which type of aged care facility is right for them.

There are two major areas of opportunity for graduates in aged care: community care and residential aged care. Each type has their pros and cons, and their suitability for you may be influenced by your interests, professional goals, and lifestyle needs.

Let’s take a look at what is on offer and see how they match your needs.

Community care

Firstly, let’s explore community care. This type of aged care provides a range of services to elderly or dependent adults in their own home. This solution is often tailored to meet the specific requirements of the client to enable them to remain in their home and live as independently as possible.

Some types of work performed by carers in community care organisations include assistance with meal preparation, personal care (such as dressing, bathing, and eating), medication supervision, household management, and early dementia specialised care.

One of the big benefits of working in community care is the flexibility. Many organisations allow their aides to set their own hours. Often, they also offer casual, part-time, or non-traditional-hours of employment. This makes it a suitable option for people in specific stages of life, such as studying, raising a family, or caring for elderly relatives. You can also build strong relationships with your clients as you help them manage their daily tasks. This type of work is not as fast-paced as that of residential aged care facilities and may require a lot more emotional and companionship work, but it all depends on your outlook and personality.

Residential Aged Care

For other elderly clients, they require around the clock care in residential aged care facilities. These facilities may offer temporary accommodation (for injury rehabilitation or respite), permanent accommodation, or a combination. These facilities must meet strict care standards and ensure the elderly residents enjoy a good quality of life.

Some types of work performed by personal carers in residential aged care facilities include support with communication and mobility, assistance with personal care (such as dressing, bathing, and eating), and specialised support for cognitive impairment.

One of the key benefits of choosing work in a residential aged care facility is that you are part of a passionate team of people whom you can turn to for help such as nurses, managers, other aides. It’s a great place to start your aged care career. Many facilities offer pathways for professional development and advancement, another attractive bonus of working in residential aged care.

In contrast to the flexibility of community care, however, residential care tends to be more structured with set schedules. Additionally, some positions can be quite physically demanding, so it’s important to take that into account.

Caring is key

No matter whether you choose to work in residential aged care or community care, your support and dedication is vitally important for your elderly clients. You provide the comfort of companionship and help make their lives more manageable. As an ambassador for your organisation, you have the privilege to do meaningful work that makes an enormous difference to the lives of the elderly.

Are you thinking of working in the aged care sector? Call one of our expert career advisors today at Yorke Institute on (03) 9042 0231 or visit our CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support page to learn more about our nationally accredited aged care training. Our graduates are highly sought after and you could be eligible or government funding. Call now.