My Guide For Health Workers

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In my lifetime, I’ve worked in two separate job organizations geared towards the health and well being of elderly people. In other words, I was a caretaker. My major responsibilities were cleaning, cooking, and making sure the clients were comfortable and happy with their environment. I enjoyed talking with them and listening to stories they had to share. But inasmuch as I so enjoyed the jobs, there are many health risks associated with working with elderly people.

One of the major health risks of the job is that it can sometimes be stressful. Many caretakers are providing services almost all day and even into the night. Meaning there is little time for work, friends, or other  family members. During my first year as a caregiver, I took care of my grandmother. For me, it wasn’t actually as stressful as most make it seem because I was around family 24/7; tied with the fact that I only worked on weekends and specific weekdays so I still went to school and made friends. But for people who are much older than me, and have been in the business for a while, things get kinda hectic. And the stress can come from anything; from not getting enough sleep, to not having enough PPE to protect yourself from catching a sickness.

Stress can lead to depression and anxiety, which are other health risks that come with being a caretaker. Studies repeatedly report more cases of depression in caretakers than non caretakers. This could come as a result of frustration; with themselves, or the client. That’s why this job takes a lot of patience. Catching a sickness from the patient is also another risk factor. During pandemics, caretakers may not have enough PPE to be able to protect themselves from contracting a disease and possibly spreading it. So now I briefed you on a few of the health risks; the question remains, how can we prevent them?

  1. Get a good night's rest- This doesn't just apply to caretakers, this goes for all healthcare workers and the general population. It’s advised that you get a good night’s rest (at least 7-9 hours) every single night so you can wake up charged and refreshed the next morning. 

2. Eat well (or at least have a balanced diet)- Again, this goes for everybody. Not just caretakers. We all know it’s important to have a balanced diet. And I know that might seem impossible with some work schedules but you have to try! When you're leaving for work in the morning, take an apple or some fruits with you. That way if you get hungry later on, you could have something to sak on.
3. Find a de-stressor- Every job out there comes with something that will stress you out. So you have to find something (or things) that can relieve that stress. Whether it be a game, going out to the park, or watching a movie; find something that can take your mind off of that stressful situation. And when you're done, you can tackle it with full force.
4. Always be prepared- For all my healthcare workers out there, try to make sure you have enough PPE (personal protective equipment). It comes in handy. Especially since we are all going through this Covid-19 Pandemic. Protect yourselves so you can save others. This would probably be a tip for the employers as well. Your employee’s need to know you have their back. So make sure they get what they need to protect themselves and others. 

DISCLAIMER: Here are some websites of other interesting workplaces and what they do
https://coganpower.com/
https://www.4feldco.com/
https://www.caregiver.org/caregiver-health

COMMENT BELOW: What's your funniest work story? OR What do you love most about your job?

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