Are you planning to build a career in aged care? As a care worker focusing on aged care, you should focus on some factors to provide the best possible service. The work of a care worker can be challenging, especially when you are working with senior citizens. Therefore, you should focus on some crucial aspects when caring for these clients.

We often receive various questions regarding a career in aged care. A lot of these questions revolve around individual support courses and tips for this job. Today, we’ll discuss the 10 things you need to consider when caring for elderly clients. You’ll get a clear guide on how to work in this noble occupation efficiently and effectively.

Aged Care in Australia

Before we proceed, let us discuss the aged care sector in Australia. The country is suffering from a shortage of workers in this sector. As a result, the Australian government has launched special campaigns like ‘A Life Changing Life’ campaign to encourage individuals to participate in this sector.

There is a high demand for qualified care workers in the country’s aged care sector. There is no doubt that this demand will keep rising with time. There are numerous courses and institutions specialising in aged care services all over Australia. So you can see that it’s a fantastic field in which you can build and grow your career.    

10 Things to Consider When Caring for Elderly Clients

Caring for elderly clients requires a unique approach, as they have different needs and abilities compared to other age groups. So let’s talk about the 10 things to consider when caring for elderly clients.

1. Physical Limitations

It’s important to understand the physical limitations of your elderly clients. This includes any mobility issues, chronic conditions or limitations in range of motion. This information can help you tailor your treatment and make appropriate adjustments to ensure the comfort and safety of your clients.

2. Medications

Many elderly clients take multiple medications, which can have an impact on their overall health. It’s important to be aware of any medications your client is taking and to communicate with their physician if necessary. Remember that you need to cooperate with health care professionals in this job.

3. Dementia or Cognitive Impairment

Some elderly clients may have dementia or cognitive impairment, which can affect their ability to understand and communicate. You need to be patient and use simple, clear language when communicating with these clients. You also need to maintain a caring attitude and try your best to ensure a comfortable environment.

4. Sensory Impairment

Some elderly clients may have sensory impairments, such as vision or hearing loss. It’s essential to be aware of these impairments and to make appropriate adjustments, such as using large-print materials or speaking clearly. You need to focus on making the daily lives of your clients easier and more accessible, in spite of their impairments.

5. Emotional Needs

Caring for elderly clients can be emotionally challenging, as they may be dealing with issues such as loneliness, isolation, and grief. You should be sensitive to their emotional needs and provide emotional support when needed. The emotional aspect is a very crucial factor when you’re working in aged care.

6. Nutritional Needs

As we age, our nutritional needs change. Be aware of the nutritional needs of your elderly clients and make appropriate recommendations for their diet and supplements. You may have to communicate with a nutritionist to ensure a proper diet for elderly clients. You also need to have a basic understanding of nutrition.

7. Skin Care

Our skin becomes thinner and more fragile with age. Try to understand the special skin care needs of your clients and make appropriate recommendations for their skincare routine. This may appear to be insignificant. But small steps like this can make a very positive impact on your overall service.

8. Safety

Safety is a major concern when caring for elderly clients. Look for any potential hazards in the environment and make necessary adjustments to ensure their safety. Always remember that safety is one of your top priorities when caring for senior citizens. Therefore, you should not overlook this factor.

9. Advance Care Planning

You can have an open conversation with your elderly clients about their wishes for future medical care. You can document these wishes in advance as part of your care plan. This plan can assist you in taking the necessary steps for the future. It will also improve your overall service quality and reputation.

10. Communication with Family

You should maintain regular communication with the family of your elderly clients to ensure that they are informed about their loved ones and to involve them in the care plan. This step will also help your clients to receive the necessary emotional support from their families. You should include this step in all of your aged care plans if possible.

Certifications in Aged Care

You will come across several courses and institutions in Australia that specialise in aged care. You can obtain a formal certification from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) through an online or offline course. Some of the most popular courses that can teach you about aged care services are:

• CHC43015 – Certificate IV in Ageing Support
• CHC33021 – Certificate III in Individual Support

Always remember to choose a recognised training provider to obtain a certification. Make sure that the course curriculum suits your career goals.

Conclusion

Caring for elderly clients requires patience and focus. You have to consider their physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. By being aware of these needs and making appropriate adjustments, you can provide the best possible care to your elderly clients.

If you have any questions about elder care, please contact us. Good luck!