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What does a Caregiver do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A caregiver is a person who provides care and assistance to another person who needs help due to age, illness, or disability. Caregivers can provide both physical and emotional support to their patients. They may help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as providing transportation and running errands.

Caregiver job duties include:

  • Providing companionship
  • Preparing and serving meals
  • Helping with bathing, dressing, and grooming
  • Performing light housekeeping duties
  • Providing transportation to appointments and activities
  • Assisting with medication reminders
  • Providing assistance with exercise and physical activity
  • Helping with mental stimulation activities, such as reading, puzzles, and games
  • Incontinence care

Caregiver Job Requirements

There are a few different types of caregivers, so the job requirements can vary depending on what type of caregiving position you are interested in. For example, if you want to be a certified nursing assistant (CNA), you will need to complete a state-approved training program and pass a competency exam. Some states also require CNAs to be licensed. If you want to be a home health aide (HHA), you will need to complete a brief training program. Some HHAs may also need to be licensed or certified in their state. In general, most caregivers will need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, such as an Associate's degree in health science. Many employers also prefer candidates who have prior experience working with patients or clients in a healthcare or social service setting.

Caregiver Skills

  • Patience
  • Empathy
  • Compassion
  • Communication
  • Listening
  • Observation
  • Flexibility
  • Adaptability
  • Self-awareness
  • Awareness of others
  • Sensitivity
  • Physical stamina

Related: Top Caregiver Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Caregiver

A caregiver is a very important person in the lives of many people. They provide care and support to those who need it the most. If you are considering becoming a caregiver, there are a few things you should know.

First, it is important to have a caring and compassionate personality. This is essential in order to be successful in this field. You must be able to empathize with your clients and understand their needs.

Second, you must be reliable and responsible. Your clients will be relying on you for their care, so it is important that you can be counted on. They need to know that you will be there when they need you.

Third, you must have good communication skills. You will need to be able to communicate effectively with your clients, as well as their families and other professionals involved in their care.

Fourth, you must be organized and efficient in your work. This is necessary in order to keep track of your clients’ needs and schedules.

Finally, you must have a positive attitude. It is important to remember that your clients are going through a difficult time in their lives, and they need someone who will be supportive and encouraging.

If you have these qualities, then you may have what it takes to become a caregiver. It is a rewarding career that can make a difference in the lives of those you serve.

Related: Caregiver Resume Example

Related: Caregiver Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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