Have you ever thought about what you might do as a second career? Many people think when they retire, theyll simply travel, enjoy family, finish up projects around the house or a multitude of other scenarios. Yet others think about making a change in careers before its time for them to retire. Today, people are leaving their long-time jobs for a second career. And caregiving is the perfect fit for many individuals.Caregiving jobs are extremely rewarding for the right type of person. Caregivers for older adults are in great demand and, as you may know, there is a lot of opportunity for caregiving jobs in most communities. Caregiving jobs can be found in nursing homes, hospitals, adult day care centers and in client's homes. There are people from all walks of life that choose to become caregivers and not just those in the medical field. Sure, RNs, LPNs, medical assistants and other health care positions are a natural fit for caregiving. But many other types of individuals are joining the ranks as caregivers, and they come from diverse backgrounds.All you need to do is look at the rewards of caregiving:Helping individuals who struggle completing simple tasks that we often take for granted like, dressing, bathing, preparing meals, taking medications and much more.Assisting older adults who may be alone with no family close by or maybe without family altogether.Being a companion to sit and talk to someone who has no interaction on a regular basis with people.Putting a smile on someone's face and your own.Supporting families who need the extra help with their loved one and giving them peace of mind.Learning about the client their background, where they grew up, what life experiences they've had, their family, spouse, grandchildren, hobbies and so much more. What caregivers learn from older adults is sometimes life changing.Personal growth and increased meaning and purpose in your own life.Sense of giving back to others.At the end of the day, seeing how you've changed someone's life is what really matters. Caregiving gives you that moment of pause where you realize you have truly made an impact on the life of a client and their family. And at the same time, you are earning some extra money to help with bills or spoil yourself a bit. Are you the ONE who can make a difference in someone's life? Consider stepping into the role of caregiver and see how your life will change.Editors Note: This article was contributed by Sandy Sferrella-Taylor, Public Relations Manager at Visiting Angels or York, Lancaster and Hanover, a local non-medical homecare agency.
