Start with training, and start now would be my advice. Learn all you can, the internet being a wealth of information. You are HERE on Forum, and you will also learn here.At the top of the page you will see "Care Topics" and can click on this and access good articles. I started out as a CNA, free training years ago in Chicago. Went on to LVN, again almost entirely free at that time through Chicago Public School System. I then began on college courses. I was in my 40s when I worked up to RN. I did it all slowly and as inexpensively as I was able. It was a wonderful career. I wish you good luck. In order to learn pay rates in your area check with people already working as caregivers. You have some extra protections and benefits working with an agency, but it of course does take a portion of the pay. You aren't responsible for the death of someone you are hired to care for, but you can expect questions if you are "witness" to a death. This isn't an accusation; it is asking for information you may know. Just answer honestly what you know and what you don't know. Good luck.
No, you can not be held responsible for someone's death.
If you are serious about being a Caregiver, I suggest you get some training. I personally would not hire someone with no training or experience. There are CNA training courses. They run 8 to 10 weeks. Check with your local Community College or Technical school. Ask around to NHs. They usually will train new employees but maybe you can join a class for a fee.
You also asked about how much you should be paid. The rate increases with any special qualifications and training. For instance, the agency caregiver I hire for my LO is the lowest hourly rate ($22 through the agency, so IDK what she is paid by them). I was told is my LO becomes a "fall risk" then I need a different caregiver who has special training for that and the hourly rate goes up. If you have formal medical training, it goes up more. I think the highest pay is if you're an RN, but I'm not positive. Also, being "just as good or better" is subjective. Professionalism, maturity and wisdom are very desirable.
I attended some professional training last year. Many of the others also had many many years of experience inc dementia, disability, frailty, mental illness.
The course provided valuable knowledge in many areas, including mandatory reporting for abuse, work ethics, occupational work & safety, palliative care & communicating with diverse people of different cultures & faiths.
I found this immensly useful. Like a deeper layer added. The support & shared stories of the other participants was another layer again.
DDB, I agree with you that lived experience can be very valuable in a professional caregiver.
But formal training would teach you, among many other things, what your responsibilities are and how you can meet the legal requirements for providing acceptable standards of care. If you intend to work as a caregiver for your living, I would recommend that you take a job that will offer you training and qualifications as part of your role.
This would also introduce you to other caregivers and care providers who will share their knowledge with you. I'm sure you don't think that you have nothing to learn from other professionals.
You aren't responsible for the death of someone you are hired to care for, but you can expect questions if you are "witness" to a death. This isn't an accusation; it is asking for information you may know. Just answer honestly what you know and what you don't know. Good luck.
If you are serious about being a Caregiver, I suggest you get some training. I personally would not hire someone with no training or experience. There are CNA training courses. They run 8 to 10 weeks. Check with your local Community College or Technical school. Ask around to NHs. They usually will train new employees but maybe you can join a class for a fee.
I attended some professional training last year. Many of the others also had many many years of experience inc dementia, disability, frailty, mental illness.
The course provided valuable knowledge in many areas, including mandatory reporting for abuse, work ethics, occupational work & safety, palliative care & communicating with diverse people of different cultures & faiths.
I found this immensly useful. Like a deeper layer added. The support & shared stories of the other participants was another layer again.
I wish you well for your work.
But formal training would teach you, among many other things, what your responsibilities are and how you can meet the legal requirements for providing acceptable standards of care. If you intend to work as a caregiver for your living, I would recommend that you take a job that will offer you training and qualifications as part of your role.
This would also introduce you to other caregivers and care providers who will share their knowledge with you. I'm sure you don't think that you have nothing to learn from other professionals.