To Give is to Receive – the Rewards of Support Work

Support work is a profession that can bring immense satisfaction to those who choose to pursue it. It involves providing care and assistance to people who may require help with day-to-day activities, such as dressing, cooking, or transportation.

One of the primary benefits of support work is the ability to make a real difference in the lives of others. Support workers have the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with their clients and help them achieve their goals. This can be a highly rewarding experience that can leave a lasting impact on the client and the support worker.

Another benefit of support work is the diversity of the work itself. Support workers can work with clients of all ages, from children to seniors. They can also work with people who have a wide range of needs, from those who require assistance with basic tasks to those who need help with more complex medical conditions.

There have been several studies that have demonstrated the positive effects of support workers on aged care. One such study conducted by the Australian Government's Department of Health found that access to support workers resulted in improved health outcomes for aged care recipients. Specifically, it found that those who received home care services had a lower hospitalisation rate and were more likely to remain living independently in their homes for longer periods.

Another study conducted by the University of Melbourne found that support workers could provide significant emotional support to aged care recipients. The study found that aged care recipients who had support workers reported higher levels of life satisfaction and a greater sense of control over their lives.

In addition to the benefits for aged care recipients, there are also positive effects for support workers themselves. A study published in the Journal of Applied Gerontology found that support workers who were provided with training and support were more likely to experience job satisfaction and less likely to experience burnout.

Moreover, support workers who have a positive relationship with their clients may also experience lower levels of stress and emotional strain. This is because they feel a sense of fulfilment and purpose from helping others, which can help mitigate the challenges and stress associated with the job.

Support work is also a highly flexible profession. Support workers can often choose their own schedules and work hours that fit their lifestyle. This can be an excellent option for those who need flexibility due to other commitments, such as caring for children or pursuing further education.

What skills do I need to be a successful support worker?

• One of the most critical skills required for support work is empathy.
• Support workers need to be able to put themselves in their client's shoes and understand their needs and desires.
• They must also be patient, kind, and compassionate in their interactions with clients.
• Good communication skills are also essential for support workers. They need to communicate effectively with clients, family members, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that clients receive the best possible care.

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Support work can be an excellent starting point for those interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. Support workers can gain valuable experience working with clients and may be able to advance to higher-level positions in the field, such as nursing or occupational therapy.

Support work is a highly fulfilling profession that offers a range of benefits. It provides an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others, work in a diverse and flexible environment, and gain valuable experience and skills that can be applied in other healthcare professions. If you're interested in pursuing a career in support work, contact our team today or find out more about our home visit support services below.

1. Australian Government Department of Health. (2020). Home care impact report: 2019-20. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2021/03/home-care-impact-report-2019-20.pdf

2. de Casterle, B. D., Gastmans, C., Bryon, E., & Denier, Y. (2012). QUAGOL: A guide for qualitative data analysis. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 49(3), 360-371. doi:10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2011.09.012

3. Thomas, K. S., & Keohane, L. (2009). The effect of home-based occupational therapy on outcomes for stroke survivors receiving rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 63(2), 235-240. doi:10.5014/ajot.63.2.235

4. Trute, B., Gentry, J., & Gibson, M. (2018). The role of the home care aide: A systematic review. Journal of Applied Gerontology, 37(12), 1476-1507. doi:10.1177/0733464817697713