Geriatric Care Aide Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an aging society, the importance of Geriatric Care Aides has never been more pronounced.

As the population ages, the demand for compassionate, skilled professionals who can provide the necessary care for our elders increases.

But let’s break it down: What’s really required from a Geriatric Care Aide?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of geriatric care,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Geriatric Care Aide job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Geriatric Care Aide Duties and Responsibilities

Geriatric Care Aides provide essential support to elderly patients, often aiding those who have physical or mental impairments that prevent them from performing daily tasks independently.

They are primarily responsible for ensuring the comfort, safety, and health of their patients, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Assisting with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting
• Helping with mobility, including transferring the patient from bed to wheelchair and vice versa
• Monitoring and reporting changes in health, behavior, or personality
• Administering prescribed medication under the supervision of a nurse or physician
• Preparing meals and assisting with feeding if necessary
• Providing emotional support and companionship, including engaging in conversation, reading, and recreational activities
• Performing light housekeeping duties, such as cleaning, laundry, and dishwashing
• Accompanying the patient to doctor’s appointments or other outings
• Implementing individualized care plans developed by healthcare professionals

 

Geriatric Care Aide Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Geriatric Care Aide to assist in providing care and support to elderly individuals.

The Geriatric Care Aide will be responsible for assisting with daily living activities, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring the comfort and safety of patients.

Our ideal candidate has a respectful, patient-centered approach and a genuine interest in caring for the elderly.

Previous experience in a similar role, as well as relevant certifications, will be advantageous.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding
• Monitor and document patients’ health conditions and report any changes to nursing staff
• Provide companionship to patients, listening to their concerns and promoting their well-being
• Perform light housekeeping duties such as cleaning and laundry
• Assist with mobility and physical therapy exercises as directed
• Facilitate communication between patients and their families
• Administer medication under the supervision of a nurse or doctor
• Support meal preparation and ensure dietary restrictions are followed
• Follow all health and safety regulations to maintain a safe environment

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Geriatric Care Aide or similar role
• Knowledge of basic patient care techniques and medical terminology
• CPR and First Aid Certification
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Physical strength and stamina to assist with patient mobility
• Patience, empathy, and compassion for working with elderly individuals
• High school diploma or equivalent, with a valid state Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Geriatric Care Aide
• Work Environment: Long-term care facilities, nursing homes, or private residences. Requires physical stamina for standing and walking for extended periods, and lifting patients.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $20,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time/Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our facility. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, relevant certifications, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Geriatric Care Aide Do?

A Geriatric Care Aide, also known as a personal care aide or caregiver, primarily provides assistance to elderly individuals who have difficulty performing daily tasks due to aging, illness, or disability.

They are usually employed in residential homes, nursing facilities, or hospitals, and they often work under the supervision of a registered nurse or other medical professionals.

Geriatric Care Aides assist with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and meal preparation.

They may also help with light housekeeping duties like laundry, cleaning, and grocery shopping.

They might administer medication or assist with simple medical procedures as directed by healthcare professionals.

They often keep records of the individual’s condition, progress, or problems to report and discuss observations with a healthcare professional.

Also, they provide emotional support and companionship to the elderly.

They may engage them in social activities, provide transportation to medical appointments, or assist with physical therapy exercises.

Ultimately, the role of a Geriatric Care Aide is to improve the quality of life of seniors and make their everyday lives easier and more comfortable.

 

Geriatric Care Aide Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Geriatric Care Aide should have the qualifications and skills that align with your job description, including:

• Knowledge of basic health care and hygiene tasks, including bathing, dressing, and feeding elderly patients.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish a rapport with elderly patients and their families, showing empathy and understanding.
• Communication skills to listen and understand patient needs, as well as clearly discuss care plans with patients, family members, and other healthcare professionals.
• Physical strength and stamina to assist patients with mobility, including helping them stand, walk, or move from one location to another.
• Problem-solving skills to identify issues with patients’ health and well-being and respond promptly and appropriately.
• Detail-oriented to monitor and record patient health status and any changes in behavior, physical condition, or medication side effects.
• Patience and a compassionate demeanor to provide quality care for the elderly who may be suffering from physical or mental health challenges, including dementia or Alzheimer’s.
• Certification as a Nursing Assistant or similar qualification, along with knowledge of first aid and CPR.

 

Geriatric Care Aide Experience Requirements

To become a Geriatric Care Aide, one typically needs to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Many start their journey with an entry-level position in a healthcare setting, like a nursing home, home care agency, or hospital, where they can gain valuable hands-on experience.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through part-time roles, internships or volunteer positions in the geriatric care field.

During this time, they learn important skills such as patient care, communication, and understanding of medical terminology.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have a deeper understanding of elderly patient care.

They often have experience with patient grooming, personal hygiene, feeding, and administering medication under supervision.

They might also have experience in providing emotional support to patients and their families.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have advanced skill levels and a broad knowledge of geriatric care.

This experience often includes managing health records, monitoring patient vitals, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals.

They may be ready for a supervisory position or to take on more complex patient cases.

Some roles may require Geriatric Care Aides to have certification from an accredited healthcare or nursing assistant program, which provides additional training and experience in the field.

 

Geriatric Care Aide Education and Training Requirements

Geriatric Care Aides typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education as a minimum educational qualification.

To gain the skills necessary for this role, candidates often complete a state-approved education program for nursing assistants or personal care aides, which includes both classroom training and hands-on patient care.

Upon completion of the training program, they must pass a competency exam to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

Most states require Geriatric Care Aides to be listed on the state registry and renew their certification every two years, which involves completing a minimum number of continuing education credits and providing proof of employment.

Experience in healthcare, particularly with elderly patients, is highly valued.

Some employers may also require Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification.

Although not required, many Geriatric Care Aides further their education and skills by pursuing specializations such as Geriatric Certified Nursing Assistant (GNA) or Patient Care Technician (PCT).

Advanced courses in geriatric care may also be beneficial.

These additional qualifications indicate a candidate’s dedication to their role and willingness to provide the highest quality of care to their patients.

 

Geriatric Care Aide Salary Expectations

A Geriatric Care Aide earns an average salary of $25,280 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary depending on factors such as the number of hours worked, geographical location, the individual’s level of experience and certification, and the policies of the employing organization.

 

Geriatric Care Aide Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Geriatric Care Aide need?

A Geriatric Care Aide should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with elderly patients and understand their needs.

They should be compassionate, patient, and have a genuine interest in working with the elderly.

Good physical stamina is also essential as the job often requires lifting and assisting patients.

They should also have basic medical knowledge to understand the health conditions of their patients.

 

Do Geriatric Care Aides need specific qualifications or certifications?

Yes, most employers require Geriatric Care Aides to have a high school diploma or GED.

In addition, they should have completed a state-approved education program and be certified as a Nursing Assistant or similar.

Some states also require them to pass a competency exam to be certified.

 

What should you look for in a Geriatric Care Aide’s resume?

In a Geriatric Care Aide’s resume, look for a certification as a Nursing Assistant or similar and any specialized training related to elderly care.

Experience in a similar role, especially with patients who have conditions common to the elderly, is highly desirable.

Also, look for skills such as patience, empathy, and good communication.

 

What qualities make a good Geriatric Care Aide?

A good Geriatric Care Aide should be patient and compassionate, as they will often work with individuals who are in discomfort or facing emotional distress.

They should also have good physical endurance as they may need to lift or move patients.

Good communication skills are important to interact effectively with patients, their families, and medical staff.

They should also be reliable, as their patients depend on them for their daily activities and medical needs.

 

What are the daily duties of a Geriatric Care Aide?

A Geriatric Care Aide’s daily duties may include helping patients with activities of daily living like bathing, eating, dressing, and moving around.

They may also monitor vital signs, administer medication, and assist with medical procedures under the supervision of nursing staff.

They also play a crucial role in providing emotional support and companionship to the elderly.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have demystified what it truly means to be a geriatric care aide.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about providing care.

It’s about shaping the golden years of the elderly, one day at a time.

With our handy geriatric care aide job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step up.

But don’t halt here.

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every day spent caring for the elderly is a significant part of a larger journey.

Let’s create that journey. Together.

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