If you love helping seniors there are many careers that can be just as lucrative as they are rewarding. Working with seniors is wonderful for personal development, and can provide job growth and security since there is always a need for jobs in senior care. In addition, you’ll likely find a purpose and a strong sense of fulfillment through working with seniors. Here are 6 jobs that help seniors and pay over $60k per year.
1. Caregiver
One traditional job that helps seniors is a caregiver. Depending on location, according to Zip Recruiter, senior caregivers can make up to $75k per year. If you love taking care of seniors, you may find this hands-on role rewarding. Caregiver certification varies by state. The American Caregiver Association (ACA) offers a variety of caregiver certification courses, including the National Caregiver Certification Course. The ACA is considered the most established and respected caregiver certification organization in the United States.
2. Activities Director
According to Zip Recruiter, Activities Directors plan and oversee recreational events and programs most commonly in a facility for the elderly. Activities can include arts and crafts, exercise, dance, or music classes that promote social engagement and a healthy lifestyle. As an Activities Director, you’ll likely oversee other staff and interact with residents often. Many positions require that you be a certified recreational therapist.
3. Social Worker
Geriatric social workers are so important in helping seniors coordinate care, navigate financial issues, and protect against elder abuse. Many hospitals, facilities, and private organizations employ geriatric social workers. While the minimum education required is a bachelor’s degree, many employers require a master’s in social work. According to Zip Recruiter, the average annual salary of a geriatric social worker is $70k.
4. Geriatrician
If you are interested in medicine, you could specialize in Geriatric Care as a Geriatrician. Geriatricians usually spend 1-2 years after residency completing a Geriatrics fellowship. Geriatricians typically make upwards of $200k per year.
5. Nonprofit Executive Director
Many nonprofit organizations like Meals on Wheels directly help seniors or aid in geriatric research. Nonprofits have several roles that make over $60k depending on the organization’s size and location. Some jobs to consider are marketing directors, major gifts officers, and executive directors. Most executive director roles make well above $60k. As an executive director, you’ll be responsible for human resources activities, fundraising, and managing finances.
6. Healthcare Account Executive
Many companies help coordinate care options for seniors. As a Healthcare Account Executive, you work closely with families, hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities to place loved ones into appropriate care. The base salary for these roles starts at around $90k. Plus, you typically only need a bachelor’s degree.
Find a Meaningful Career Helping Seniors
Working with seniors is not just a job, but a rewarding career. With the right skills, education, and experience you can easily make over $60k a year doing something that you love. Additionally, The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects senior living industry employment to rise in the years ahead. If you’re looking for a career change, this may be the perfect time to try working with seniors.