By 2025, the senior living industry will employ 1.2 million workers. And it’s not only doctors and nurses – there are career opportunities in business and management, recreation, dining and more.
Read on to learn more about careers in senior living, and see if one could be right for you.
What Are Some Careers in Senior Living?
Health care professionals like doctors, RNs, CNAs and others all play an important role in the field of senior living. But senior living also includes a wide range of non-medical jobs, according to Argentum Senior Living Works, including:
Management and business staff
Help communities run efficiently, attract residents and take care of employees. These positions include accountants, human resources managers, sales and marketing staff and public relations.
Facilities management staff
Ensure a safe, secure and nurturing environment. Jobs include building and ground maintenance and security positions.
Dining and hospitality positions
Provide 24-hour support to keep residents’ lives running smoothly. These positions could include chefs, dining services staff, concierges and housekeeping personnel.
Recreation and engagement staff
Provide entertainment and activities for residents but help them stay engaged and active. These positions range from special events coordinators to physical trainers to activity coordinators.
Specialized health care professionals
Provide care for specific groups, such as residents who have dementia, as well as those who need special types of therapy and rehabilitation.
Why Should I Work in Senior Living?
Senior living not only includes skilled nursing (or nursing homes), but assisted living, therapy, recreation and resource centers, continuing care retirement communities and more. That means that no matter your interests and background, you can find a place in the senior living field.
In a 2016 survey by Argentum, two-thirds of respondents who had firsthand experience working in senior living would recommend it to others. The survey also noted the following reasons why people in the industry said they liked their job:
- Helping people in need
- Making a difference and bettering people’s lives
- Interacting and gaining knowledge from seniors
- Caring for and working with people
- Meeting new people and building relationships
- Making seniors feel comfortable and respected
See open positions at Residences Senior Living >>
What Experience do I Need for a Health Care Position?
Depending on the career you’re most interested in and where you live, the educational and experience requirements vary.
Because health care positions are often the most plentiful in the senior care industry, you’ll find a basic overview of some of the most common positions’ requirements below.
Registered Nurse
Steps to becoming a registered nurse: Completed an accredited program (2 years); take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam; pursue continuing education once certified.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Steps to becoming an LPN: Decide whether to earn a certificate, diploma or degree, depending on your ultimate goals; complete an approved education program; pass the NCLEX-PN exam; seek professional certification.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Steps to becoming a CNA: Complete a state-approved education program (four-16 weeks); pass your state examination; pursue continuing education once you are certified.
Where Can I Find a Job?
Does a career in the senior living industry sound right for you? Residences Senior Living is hiring for health care, housekeeping, dining and many more positions.
Learn more about the benefits you’ll find at a job where you’ll make a real difference in people’s lives. Plus, we’re now hiring for our new Coffee Creek location – see our available jobs.