Senior Living: CNAs, PCAs – our silent heroes during pandemic
By Beth Dow, Solutions by Beth
One positive that came out of 2020 is the renewed appreciation for our front-line workers. They truly have been the heroes of 2020.
Well-deserved praise for doctors, nurses, EMTs, and other first responders can be seen on TV, in publications, and in various Facebook posts. This past year, our front-line workers rose to the call of duty very much like our soldiers did after 9-11. We have lost many people to COVID-19, but because of the commitment, passion and selflessness of our frontline workers, many more people get to enter 2021.
One group that often gets left out of the accolades is the non-medical caregivers. The Certified Nursing Assistants and the Personal Care Assistants are the men and women that do most of the hands-on, one-on-one care to those who are sick or need an extra hand.
CNAs and PCAs work in hospitals, rehabs, assisted living communities, nursing homes and individual homes. They provide some of the most intimate and close contact care such as dressing, bathing and toileting. They often are exposed to someone with COVID-19 for longer periods of time than other front-line workers. And they too have stepped up – at risk to their own health – to help those who need them.
Because of CNAs and PCAs, many seniors have been able to get the help they need and stay in their own home. In addition, seniors haven’t had to risk going to the grocery store or out for other errands. While some seniors have felt isolated while abiding by the shelter-in-place order, seniors who have chosen in-home care have felt less isolated due to the social engagement with another person. As the founder of Home Helpers of GA & AL, a home-care company, and in conjunction with my son, Grant Dow, president of Home Helpers, we want to give all the CNAs and PCAs a heartfelt Thank You! Your care to the health and recovery of so many people has greatly contributed to keeping people free of COVID-19 and to the surviving COVID-19 rates.
Being a CNA and a PCA takes a special type of person. A special type that is greatly needed today. If you are a CNA or a PCA, not only can you get a job, you will get a job that will change a life. There are CNA classes that can be completed in less than 3 weeks for as little as $750. Some businesses either pay or contribute to the cost of the class. PCA classes are offered by individual home-care companies and senior communities. They typically are free and will have you working within a week.
If you want to make a difference in 2021; if you want a rewarding job that is flexible and can provide steady income; if you are retired but still have lots to give; if you are already working but need extra income on a schedule that works for you; YOU ARE NEEDED!
For more information on how to become a CNA or a PCA, you can email me at [email protected] or call me at 678-876-5188 and ask to speak to Beth.
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Beth Dow is a Dementia and Alzheimer’s Educator, CAEd and Geriatric Care Manager. Readers can contact her at [email protected].
