An aged care worker provides personal, physical and emotional support to older people who require assistance with daily living. They provide assistance with daily tasks such as showering, dressing, and eating, and often assist with outings and social activities. The level of assistance provided will depend on the ability and health of the client. Aged care workers provide care either in a clientÕs home, or in a residential care setting. They carry out their duties under direct or regular supervision within clearly defined care plans or organisational guidelines.
Specialisations
- Home Support Worker
- Special Care Worker
Required Skills and Knowledge
- a caring and supportive attitude patience
- discretion and a high level of professionalism
- good communications skills
- to be physically fit and able to lift heavy objects
- to be committed to the rights of elderly people
Education Training Requirements
The Certificate III and IV in Aged Care are offered at various TAFE Colleges (or Institutes of Technology). A Senior First Aid Certificate is also an advantage when seeking employment. You can also become qualified to work as an aged care worker by completing a traineeship, which combines workplace training with paid employment. Training may be delivered entirely in the workplace, or some aspects of training may be delivered on the premises of a registered training organisation, such as a TAFE College (or Institute of Technology). The traineeship normally takes 12 months (Certificate III) and 24 months (Certificate IV).
Apprenticeships and Traineeship
As an apprentice, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer. You spend most of your time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider of your choice. They will assess your skills and when you are competent in all areas, you will be awarded a nationally recognised qualification.
