Work in senior care – where to find employment and what to ask recruitment agencies?

Working in senior care is becoming an increasingly popular profession, both in Poland and abroad. As the demand for qualified caregivers grows, so does the number of job offers. However, it is important to know where to find reliable job opportunities and what to look out for when talking to recruitment agencies. In this article, we provide guidance on where to find work in senior care and what questions to ask before accepting a job.

Where can you find work in senior care?

Senior care jobs come in different forms – both domestically and abroad. Employment opportunities include:

a) Home care (working in private households of seniors)

In this model, the caregiver works in the home of the elderly person, providing daily assistance and support. This work can be shift-based (e.g., 8-12 hours a day) or live-in care (where the caregiver stays with the senior 24/7).

Where to look for job offers?

• Online job portals specializing in caregiving, such as OPK.care
• Industry-related Facebook groups and forums
• Recruitment agencies

b) Nursing homes and care facilities

Senior residences and private care facilities are other places where caregivers can find work. In such settings, the duties may involve looking after multiple elderly residents at the same time.

Where to look for job offers?

• Websites of nursing homes
• Local employment offices
• Advertisements in regional newspapers

c) Work abroad (e.g., in Germany, Austria, the United Kingdom)

Many caregivers choose to work abroad, where wages are higher and working conditions are often more attractive. Jobs in Germany or Austria typically require at least basic knowledge of the German language.

Where to look for job offers?

• Recruitment agencies specializing in hiring caregivers for foreign jobs
• Job portals for senior caregivers
• Direct job offers from families

What questions should you ask recruitment agencies before accepting a job?

Many caregivers work with recruitment agencies that help them find suitable job offers, handle the paperwork, and provide support during employment. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is essential to carefully review the job conditions and ask the agency some key questions.

a) Salary and contract terms

• What is the net and gross salary?
• Does the salary include bonuses (e.g., for working on holidays)?
• Is the salary paid on time?
• What type of contract is offered (employment contract, service contract, freelance agreement)?

b) Job responsibilities

• What are the exact duties regarding senior care?
• Does the job include household tasks (cleaning, cooking, shopping)?
• Does the senior have additional medical needs (e.g., medication administration, dressing changes, transferring from bed to wheelchair)?

c) Accommodation and food conditions (for live-in care)

• Are accommodation and meals provided by the employer?
• Does the caregiver have a private room and access to a bathroom?
• Is the room properly equipped (bed, wardrobe, internet)?

d) Working hours and rest periods

• What is the work schedule and how much free time is provided?
• Are there designated days off?
• Does the agency provide a replacement caregiver during vacation time?

e) Support and assistance from the agency

• Does the agency provide support in case of issues with the senior or their family?
• Is it possible to change workplaces if necessary?
• Does the agency arrange transport to the job location?

What should you watch out for when looking for a job in senior care?

Unfortunately, there are fraudulent practices in the caregiving industry, so it is crucial to be cautious and thoroughly verify every job offer. Here are some things to watch out for:

• No clear contract – Never accept a job without signing a contract that outlines all employment terms.
• Unrealistically high salary promises – If an offer seems “too good to be true,” it should be carefully verified.
• Lack of information about the senior and their health condition – Before starting the job, find out what medical conditions the senior has and what duties will be required.
• No insurance or social benefits – Ensure that the employer or agency provides health and social insurance coverage.

Conclusion

Working in senior care can be a rewarding and well-paid job, but it is crucial to carefully check the employment conditions and ask about all the details before accepting a position. Both in Poland and abroad, caregivers can find job opportunities in private households, nursing homes, or through recruitment agencies.