Why Choose a Career in Senior Living?
A Smart Move for Job Seekers
More than 20% of the U.S. population will be ages 65 and older by 2029. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, seniors ages 85 and older are among the fastest-growing age group, with numbers expected to double by 2036 and triple by 2049. By 2056, the population 65 years and over will be larger than our population under 18 years.This rapidly growing demographic is creating a demand for jobs where knowledge of seniors and aging is an advantage. They include estate planning, continuing education, senior-focused wellness, academic research and entertainment.
New Communities — New Opportunities
This new generation of seniors is also driving dramatic change in retirement communities. Once the “last resort” for the elderly, senior living communities now resemble a “holiday resort” for active, healthy older adults. Senior living communities seek people with all kinds of skill sets: chefs, servers, drivers, administrative and activities staff, grounds maintenance, housekeeping, and hospitality, just to name a few. Communities with on-campus care services hire health care professionals, including physicians, nurses, therapists, caregivers, health aides and medical assistants.
Why make a career in aging?
Here are six reasons to consider a senior-focused career:
You can enter at any level.
Senior living communities offer career options for all levels of skill and education. They range from entry-level positions that require minimal formal education, such as personal care aides, all the way to those requiring higher levels of certification. Anyone looking to start or change their career can work their way up by earning professional credentials and work experience.
You’ll have job security.
Our population will continue to age well into the 21st century, and the field of aging is expanding rapidly. You’ll have plenty of job security as you move up the career ladder.
You’ll have lots of options.
Senior living communities provide residential living, dining, social and recreational activities, and in-house services and amenities such as a fitness center, arts and crafts studio, and beauty salon. There’s a range of disciplines offering broad job opportunities.
You’ll make a difference.
People who work in this field report immense satisfaction in helping seniors maintain a healthy quality of life. Whether it’s hands-on as an occupational therapist, face-to-face as a community activities director, or behind the scenes as a chef, you can make a unique impact in an older person’s life.
You’ll enrich your life.
In a youth-obsessed society, it’s easy to overlook the wit, wisdom and creativity of older adults who continue to live fascinating, purposeful lives. You’ll interact with people who’ve lived through history, with fascinating stories to tell. You’ll enrich your life in ways you can’t imagine.
You’ll meet exceptional co-workers.
The field of senior living draws in many remarkable people. You’ll meet people with genuine compassion for others and who pride themselves in making a difference. They’ll have a higher level of patience and greater empathy than most. They make a point of listening well, asking open questions, and treating elders with respect. They support residents and coworkers with their positivity and optimism. And no matter what level of work they’re assigned, they’ll go out of their way to learn about the people they serve, form meaningful bonds, and elevate everyone around them with the relationships they build.
This is a career that gives you more.
Working with seniors places you on a unique career path filled with life and learning. As you interact with the residents in a senior living community, you’ll nurture friendships that may help you look at life a little differently. You’ll hear about accomplishments, struggles, regrets and triumphs that might cause you to rethink your own priorities. In many cases, seniors are more than willing to express their gratitude for a job well done or extra attention given. They recognize how much they need the services you’ll provide. And they look forward to conversation and laughter that makes life meaningful.
Freedom Village of Bradenton is now hiring for a variety of positions in different departments. We offer a great location, excellent benefits, and an exceptional community culture where you’ll feel like family right away. Go to our Careers page to learn more.