Whether you’re searching for purposeful work or looking to hire compassionate caregivers, you’re in the right place.
Senior care is more than a role. It’s a commitment to preserving dignity, building trust through daily connection, and shaping the lives of not just those receiving care but also their families, communities, and future generations. It requires skill, patience, and purpose, and offers the kind of impact that lasts well beyond a shift. Care for the Aging is committed to elevating senior care as a purposeful profession—one rooted in dignity, driven by connection, and essential to the well-being of generations.
Caring for older adults ensures that every person is treated with respect, safety, and compassion as they age.
This work supports not just individuals, but the broader network of people who rely on them—children, spouses, and caregivers alike.
The senior care field is grounded in consistency, trust, and human connection—values that define truly meaningful careers.
With the aging population increasing nationwide, the demand for qualified, purpose-driven caregivers continues to expand.
Direct Care includes hands-on caregiving careers that focus on daily support with activities like bathing, mobility, and personal hygiene. Entry points such as Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), Personal Care Aide (PCA), or Direct Care Worker provide a foundation for long-term growth in the field.
For those interested in healthcare delivery and clinical leadership, this track includes licensed nursing positions and advanced certifications. Opportunities range from Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Registered Nurse (RN) to specialized roles like Infection Preventionist or Director of Nursing.
Support services careers help create a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment for residents. Opportunities include culinary and nutrition services, housekeeping, building maintenance, and engagement-focused roles like Activities Director or Coordinator.
Professionals in this pathway ensure that long-term care communities operate efficiently and effectively. Career opportunities span areas like admissions, business operations, and organizational leadership, including roles such as Executive Director, Business Office Manager, and Marketing and Admissions Coordinator.
Focused on emotional, psychosocial, and care planning needs, this pathway includes careers in social work and resident services. These professionals help families navigate transitions and ensure residents receive personalized, holistic support.
This pathway supports residents through physical, occupational, and speech therapy — as well as therapeutic modalities like music. These licensed and credentialed professionals focus on restoring movement, communication, and emotional well-being.
2,597 additional CNAs and LNPs needed to fill current vacancies and remove caps on admissions.
83% of nursing homes report 6 or more direct care staff vacancies.
20,122 nurses needed annually in Pennsylvania to meet demand and replace retirees
Long-term care includes a variety of roles for all experience levels. Entry-level positions such as certified nurse aide (CNA), caregiver, and dietary assistant are common starting points. More advanced roles include licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), social workers, activities coordinators, and healthcare administrators.
Many people begin working in long-term care with no prior healthcare background. Entry-level caregiver roles often provide on-the-job training or connect candidates with certification programs like CNA training. Some states even offer paid training programs through senior care employers or workforce development partnerships.
Long-term care employers look for individuals who are dependable, compassionate, and good communicators. Skills like patience, empathy, and the ability to follow care plans are essential. Soft skills and a service mindset are often more important than technical experience for first-time applicants.
Yes. The long-term care field offers clear career pathways for growth. Many professionals begin as CNAs or caregivers and advance to nursing, care coordination, or leadership roles. Facilities often support staff with continuing education, certification opportunities, and tuition assistance.
Professionals in long-term care may work in skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, memory care centers, or provide care in private homes. Each setting offers unique opportunities to support aging adults and contribute to their daily well-being.
