How to Become a Paid Caregiver in Illinois

Are you taking care of an elderly family member in their home? Do you help out with tasks such as laundry, light housekeeping, and meal preparation for them? If so, you are one of more than 34 million people who provide unpaid elderly care services, according to AARP.

With an aging population, that number is only going to rise in the coming years. Placing more stress on family members helping seniors living at home. Given the nature of care provided, many in-home caregivers report stress, changes in their physical health, and lost wages from missing work. About six in ten caregivers report having to make work accommodations for their caregiving duties.

Types of In-Home Caregiving

The types of services that you may provide as an in-home caregiver can vary. But generally fall into a few distinct categories, including:

• Personal Care – This can include assistance with bathing, dressing, and other grooming needs that seniors may not be able to perform on their own anymore.
• Medication Reminders and Planning – Many seniors need to take multiple medications per day, sometimes on differing schedules that may or may not include taking them with or without food. This can be confusing For an elderly person who may have difficulty with memory, it can lead to errors that can affect their health. Developing a set schedule, along with regular reminders, can keep them on the right track.
• Light Housekeeping – While many elderly people daily living at home can keep up with basic tasks such as washing dishes, it’s more difficult for them to perform tasks like cleaning a bathroom or mopping the floor. Keeping a clean home can help seniors stay healthier.
• Meal Preparation – Ensuring that seniors eat healthy meals on a regular schedule is critical for both physical and emotional health. Cooking meals from scratch can be difficult for many elderly people, so home care providers can help by preparing dishes ahead of time or planning meals to make it easier for them to maintain their nutrition needs.
•  Brain Games & Activities –  One of the most important things an in-home caregiver can provide is mental stimulation. Playing board games, puzzles, and other activities that help them stay engaged mentally will go a long way toward keeping their minds sharp and helping ward off dementia. This type of care can help maintain and even improve cognitive function for seniors.
• Companionship & Social Interaction – Being alone can be a dangerous thing for seniors. Having an in-home caregiver who is also a companion can help seniors stay connected with the outside world, providing company and emotional support that can help stave off depression and loneliness.

How You Can Become a Paid Caregiver

There is good news for people caring for seniors in their homes. The state of Illinois has a program that allows a family member to get paid to help take care of an elderly family member. The Illinois Department on Aging’s Community Care Program is designed to help older adults live independently. The program works with a home care agency that provides training and support, thus ensuring a high standard of care for seniors.

In order to become a paid caregiver for your family member, both you and your loved one will need to apply to the program. They will need to apply for care, while you apply to become a caregiver. Assuming they qualify, the home care agency you work with will do a standard background check, provide you with caregiver training, and then help you get on your way to providing care for your loved one.

Home Care Powered by AUAF Can Help You Become a Paid Caregiver

Home Care Powered by AUAF can help your loved one get the care they need. Our home care agency can help you become a paid family caregiver at the same time.

We’ve helped thousands of people over more than 25 years, and we’d love to help you and your loved ones to get the care you deserve. If you live in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs call us at 773-274-9262 or contact us to find out how to get started.