Is a Career in Aging Right for You?

March is Careers in Aging Month, something we celebrate every day at Brio Living Services! Have you ever considered working in the aging services field? Whether you realize it or not, you might already have the skills and passions that make for a rewarding career in this industry. Here’s a fun way to reflect on whether a career in aging could be your next great adventure!

1. Do You Love Building Relationships?

If you’re the kind of person who remembers birthdays, enjoys deep conversations, or naturally connects with others, aging services could be a perfect fit. Careers in this field, whether in caregiving, wellness, or administration—thrive on strong, meaningful relationships with older adults, their families, and colleagues.

Jovona Phillips, a Resident Care Assistant at Chelsea Retirement Community, shared what helps her thrive in her role: “I’m a compassionate, loving person, just naturally. So that helps me thrive in this area of work. I love it, I love being there for people, doing for people.” Being compassionate and understanding are key traits that you might already have, just like Jovona, to be successful in this career!

2. Are You a Problem Solver?

Do you enjoy tackling challenges and coming up with creative solutions? Whether it’s an occupational therapist helping someone regain independence, a dining team member adjusting meals for dietary needs, or an administrator ensuring a community runs smoothly, problem-solving is at the heart of aging services.

As an Administrative Assistant at Porter Hills Village, Christi Feenstra found a perfect blend of her skills and passion. “I’ve always had a big heart, and I’ve always been a geek—I love spreadsheets,” she told us. “Our residents have worked hard their whole lives, and they entrust us with their lives and earnings. The fact that I get to provide data to help make the best fiscal decisions for them is just amazing to me and makes me feel extremely rewarded.” There’s so many possibilities for a career in the aging industry. If you’re into numbers and want to see how your job makes a positive impact, you might want to consider this as an option for you!

3. Do You Appreciate Wisdom and Perspective?

If you love hearing stories from the past, getting life advice from those who have “been there- done that, and learning history firsthand, then working with older adults can be an enriching experience. Sage Doane, a Housekeeper at Porter Hills Village, found a deeper sense of purpose in this field. “I was looking for something more rewarding than [cleaning] an empty office building or empty hotel room. Being able to build relationships with the people I’m cleaning for and knowing I’m doing a service for somebody is my main driving factor. It’s so rewarding.” 

Having the opportunity to connect with older adults can be such a fulfilling experience. Why settle for a job where you are alone, when you could have a career that allows you to see the difference your work makes every day through the smiles and appreciation of older adults!

4. Do You Like Variety in Your Workday?

No two days are the same in the aging industry! Whether you’re planning a community event, leading a fitness class, or helping a resident solve a tech issue, there’s always something new happening. “One of the many things that people don’t realize about working with older adults is that it is fun, it is informative, it is lively. The people here teach me so much every single day and it’s amazing,” Katie Eitzen, Wellness Director at Porter Hills Village, shared with us.

Katie recently gave us a glimpse into her career journey. “I started as a hospitality aide in 2020 at Porter Hills Village to be closer to my grandmother. Over time, I made amazing new friends among team members and residents. When a Wellness Guide position opened up, I didn’t think twice about applying. I have had zero regrets.” To this day, Katie continues to bring fun to our residents by planning engaging and creative events. From poolside parties to ice cream on the rooftop garden, Katie continues to bring smiles everywhere she goes.

5. Are You Passionate About Making an Impact?

At the end of the day, working in aging services isn’t just a job; it’s a chance to make a real difference. Whether it’s ensuring someone has the care they need, creating joyful experiences, or supporting families during important transitions, the work is deeply meaningful.

“It’s knowing that I’ve helped someone do something that they can’t do for themselves, and I did it with grace and compassion,” Jovona says when we asked her about the most rewarding part of her job. “This is something I want to do. This is something I want to do every day. This is something I enjoy.” Everyone should be able to enjoy their career just as much as Jovona does. Having the opportunity to make an impact that makes you feel good about the work you are doing, fosters a positive experience in your career.

6. Do You Want A Career That Supports Your Growth?

One of the most incredible things about aging services is the room for growth, both personally and professionally. Just ask Maegan Garlock, Director of Lifestyle and Wellness, who has worked her way up through multiple roles. 

Maegan says she “grew up here” since she has been at Porter Hills Village for over 20 years. She started out as a life enrichment coordinator and was able to finish her degree. She then moved into the Wellness Director’s position and from there expanded into more administrative roles. Now she works with many team members and helps them develop in their careers as well. “It’s just been such a supportive environment for that, I just feel so thankful to be able to be here and share that with other people.”

What she shares with us about a career in aging is that it’s an industry where people truly care! They care about the older adults they serve every day and their fellow team members, too. They want them to succeed and make it in this industry because they know what powerful work it is and how being a part of aging services has shaped our lives.

So, What Do You Think?

If you see yourself aligning with any of the answers from these amazing individuals, a career in aging might be the perfect match for you! The best part? There’s a place for every skill set—from healthcare to marketing, finance to maintenance, and everything in between.

Are you ready to find your career in the aging services industry? Visit MyBrioCareers.org for your next fulfilling and inspiring career journey!