If you're unsure about following a particular career path immediately, you may want to become a volunteer or participate in an internship first. Both avenues provide opportunities for you to test a career. Student interns and volunteers are needed throughout this field. Many professionals in homes for the aging began as volunteers or interns, or worked part-time in a home while going to school. People who work with older adults are usually asked to assist elders in meeting basic human needs, including health care, rehabilitation, recreation, and social or spiritual development.
Opportunities abound at a variety of levels.
Generally, though, positions that involve special skills or supervising the work of others require more education and experience. Labor forecasters say employment for RNs will grow at a steady pace. So if you become an RN, chances are good you'll find a secure job that is expected to pay well. In homes for the aging, RNs care for residents with a variety of needs. One resident may be recuperating from surgery or a fracture.