How to Be a Care Giver in Maryland
Care givers supply companionship and supervision to the elderly, disabled or ill that wish to remain in their homes. The job ranges from part-time, full-time, to live-in care. It can be done through a company, or you may choose to do it on your own. It does not require the formal training that is needed with such occupations as nursing. However, it can be physically demanding and stressful, and requires compassion, warmth and patience for those needing your help. If you are a resident of Maryland and wish to become a care giver, there are several steps to take to achieve that goal.
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Instructions
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Determine what type of care you wish to give, and to what kind of patient. For example, if you prefer working with the elderly, you will be considered a "senior helper," and that may encompass making meals, light housework and transporting patients to doctor appointments. Working with ill patients may require learning to how administer prescribed medicine, monitoring medical equipment, changing linens and bathing clients. Care giving for the disabled may require some specialized training, such as using a vehicle outfitted for wheelchairs.
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Research companies in Maryland that are in need of the type of care giving you would like to specialize in. You may also check your local newspaper for jobs available in your region, or look online at jobs offered in your area at sites such as Craiglist.com. Many families who are in need of a care giver may choose to hire an individual who can be a regular, familiar face to their loved ones--rather than a company who may constantly rotate in various care givers.
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Interview with several companies, if possible, to compare care giving assignments, benefits, hours and duties expected, salary and training. If possible, speak with other employees to determine if the company is a good fit for your career choice as a care giver in Maryland. If you are interviewing as an individual care giver, make sure you understand the full needs of the client before accepting the job. Is dementia or Alzheimer's involved? Will you be handling any daily money needs--such as bill paying or buying groceries--for the client that you would rather not handle? Make sure you are being paid fairly for your time; as of August 2010, hourly rates in Maryland average $8.50 an hour, per the National Governor's Association.
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Contact the Maryland Department of Aging to inquire about free training for a job as a care giver. Resources and training should be available for caring for the elderly and those with dementia or Alzheimer's. Additionally, look into taking a class on CPR to give you more marketable skills, as well as more peace of mind if something should happen while a client is in your care.
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Tips & Warnings
The demand for care givers usually outweighs the supply of trained care givers available. It should not be difficult to find numerous care giver jobs available in Maryland.
Care giving can be done through a company or on your own. If you choose to do the latter, make sure that you do not take on a client with health issues or medical requirements beyond your abilities.
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