Embarking on a journey in aged care, whether studying or working, demands a profound sense of empathy, patience, and a genuine ability to connect with older individuals. For an aged carer, these aren’t just desirable traits; they’re essential. Additionally, effective communication, both verbal and written, is key for those in the field.
An insight from Ali Rajani, a verified aged care worker
“As for formal qualifications, a Certificate 3 in Individual Support stands as the baseline requirement to enter the aged care sector. This qualification trains us at a foundational level, teaching us the basics of understanding our ageing population in Australia. Effective communication is key to success, but to be precise non-verbal communication, which we all share regardless of any background or culture, plays a vital role. Commencing our conversation with a positive body language solves the majority of the problems.
Some expressions of non-verbal communication, which I’ve learned from my residents who are diagnosed with dementia, is when they show unusual behaviours such as wandering, explains me that most of the time, they are in urge of toileting or starving(food). Understanding their body language (non-verbal communication) assists me to provide my residents an optimum care, within my scope of practise.”