Position Overview
Most residential care workers work with children and young adults but some may also be assigned to work with the elderly.
They usually work on fixed shifts which can be during the day or night depending on the resident that you are assigned to.
As part of your work, you will need to liaise with healthcare professionals and families on a constant basis to provide them with heads up on the resident’s condition.
Working in this role will also require you to assume an educationist’s role as you may have to teach families how to handle a patient and what to expect from them.
Skills & Abilities
Residential care workers are required to be extremely responsible as they are accountable for the emotional and physical well-being of the people.
Possessing exceptional patience and the ability to handle adverse situations is very important in this role. Working as a residential care worker means that you will be on your toes constantly – not only physically but also mentally.
The work can be challenging – supporting residents with unpredictable behavior is a feat. Therefore, you have to be very well-prepared for it, both mentally and physically.
Education
A high school diploma or a GED is required, but if you have a diploma in social care and health, you have a greater chance of getting in.
Related: Residential Care Worker Resume
Residential Care Worker Duties and Responsibilities
• Assess assigned resident’s physical/emotional stability by skimming through their histories
• Establish a plan of care by consulting with family and healthcare professionals
• Assist residents with daily tasks such as toileting, washing, dressing, and grooming
• Ensure that food is prepared according to resident’s diet requirements and health limitations
• Assist in feeding residents and encourage them to exercise lightly
• Set behavioral rules for residents to follow while ensuring that they are followed properly
• Teach daily living skills such as shopping and budgeting
• Assist residents in claiming benefits
• Arrange for leisure activities in a safe yet supportive environment
• Accompany residents to doctor’s appointments, as well as outdoor activities
• Help residents become independent of dependencies and deal with addictions
• Provide physical and emotional support by talking them through difficult situations
• Assist clients in developing positive social networks with peer groups
• Encourage the development of individual interests by providing complete support
• Assess residents to ensure the efficacy of implemented plans
• Observe the physical/mental well-being of residents
• Report any significant changes to the supervisor