5 Challenges Carers Face and How to Overcome Them

We all know that being there for someone in need is no small feat, and care workers are the unsung champions making it happen every day. Care is probably one of the most rewarding careers and allows people to make a difference in their communities. Like all roles, care brings some challenges. Knowing what to expect before you take a position in the care sector and finding ways to overcome potential problems will help to make your career as a care worker run much smoother so that you can enjoy the opportunity to make a positive difference to people’s lives.

In this blog, we're sharing five common challenges care workers face and, more importantly, our tips on how to conquer them like the caregiving rockstars you are!

A key part of the role of a care worker is to build and maintain trust. If you can build and maintain a good relationship with your client. It is often easier to fulfil your duties and ensure their happiness at the same time.

If a client is resisting care it is important to remain calm. Taking time to talk to them, asking directly how you can help with their needs, is a chance to validate your position and responsibilities as a care worker. Once you actively show your support and concern for their wellbeing, they are much more likely to cooperate.

Arranging Transport to Each Appointment

Many care worker roles will specify that you need to be able to drive to take the position. Having your own means of transport can make the job far easier and gives you the flexibility of managing your travel without having to rely on public transport.

However, there are still career prospects as a care worker if you cannot drive, but it may make things a bit more difficult. It is your responsibility to be able to get to your calls so the best advice would be to plan your days so that you can work out your route between each care call, sourcing the necessary transport. Depending on the locality of the client’s and the accessibility of the area, you may be able to walk between calls on some occasions. For example, some of our branches are able to provide walking routes if they have a large amount of clients in one location.

Regardless of how you plan to travel between calls, you will need to work out how long it takes so that you can arrive on time, accounting for heavy traffic where applicable.

Managing Varied Shifts and Hours

Having good time management is vital as a care worker. You will be required to organise your time so that you can attend all of the necessary care visits in a single day. Due to the nature of the role, many clients will need care at varied hours of the day, this is not a 9am to 5pm job.

You may need to work longer shifts, irregular hours and during the weekends so this is something you must consider before taking a role. As a result of this, some care workers find it challenging to fit in personal responsibilities around work. By planning your time and learning to balance your work life and your personal life, you are more likely to be successful and satisfied in a care worker role.

Coping with a Decline in Health

When working closely with your client’s you will likely develop a strong relationship with them, so it can be distressing if their health takes a dramatic decline, especially in the case of older or very ill people. Coping in these situations can be difficult and it may affect your other duties as a care worker. Finding the right balance between compassion and professionalism is a good way to prepare yourself for these sudden changes if and when they happen.

Start Your Care Worker Career

We have many carer positions across the country, so with our help you will be able to find the ideal position to fit your needs and lifestyle. Find out more about the key duties of a carer here.

If you think you've got what it takes, we would love to welcome you to the team. You can find your local branch here or apply for available roles near you here.