What does a caretaker do?

I'm curious about what being a caretaker involves. I’m thinking about different job options for after high school and want to understand what the day-to-day duties or skills required for a caretaker might be.

A caretaker's role can vary significantly depending on the specifics, but in general, the job consists of providing support to individuals who are unable to manage their daily needs on their own due to disability, aging, or illness. This could be over a short term like post-surgery recovery, or long-term, such as for elderly or chronically ill individuals.

In a typical day, a caretaker might help the individual with daily tasks such as meal preparation, personal hygiene including bathing and dressing, administering medication, and assisting with movement around the house. They might also handle household chores like laundry, shopping, or cleaning, to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for the individual.

More indirectly, caretakers often provide emotional support as they are usually one of the closest points of contact for the person in care. Building a good rapport and providing companionship are vital parts of the role.

In term of skills, care-taking requires patience, empathy and understanding. Being physically fit can also be beneficial as the role can sometimes require lifting or moving the person in care. Having skills in basic household tasks and cooking can also be a plus. Additionally, knowing basic first aid and CPR can be very important, especially when working with individuals who have serious health conditions.

Some positions may require professional qualifications in fields like healthcare or social work, especially those working in an institutional setup. However, there are many opportunities for unskilled caretakers in homes and community bases, which can be a good starting point after high school if you're interested in this field.

While being a caretaker can be challenging, it also provides a rich opportunity for personal development and can be immensely rewarding as you directly help improve someone's quality of life.