Seniors Looking Out For Seniors

Most freshman dream of being able to hang out with seniors but most college students probably haven’t thought twice about spending time with senior citizens. A lot of young adults turn to babysitting and nanny positions to earn extra money while in school but if young kids aren’t your forte you should check out elder care instead.

There is a growing demand for non-medical elderly care and with a background check and a good driving record most college students can qualify to run errands, tidy up, cook meals or just provide company for older adults who enjoy the independence of living at home but need some assistance to do so.

Beyond financial compensation these jobs can be rewarding to students for many reasons. It’s a chance to network and brush up on social skills. Later you can woo potential employers with your old fashioned social graces. In the meantime, use the experience to interact with someone from a different generation, to gain their perspective and learn from their experience. They can be a mentor to you while you are an asset to them. Try to find someone who has retired from your intended career or who shares similar interests and might be able to offer a referral.

It can also be a chance to make a good friend and bond on a personal level. Many elder care givers have said the time spent with their clients changes their perspective on aging and the value they place on things in life. They are able to look at the future without fear of aging and instead plan for the circumstances that will inevitably arise as they shift through the cycles of life. This is valuable guidance for any student about to make the leap into adulthood, career, and beyond.

As Leonardo da Vinci said, “Learning acquired in youth arrests the evil of old age; and if you understand that old age has wisdom for its food, you will so conduct yourself in youth that your old age will not lack for nourishment.” Wisdom is not just gained in school but learned in life. Caring for a senior citizen can pay your bills for now while you are learning lessons that will sustain you for the future.

By Heather Fairchild - Heather is a multimedia developer, business owner, and work-from-home mom.