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GREENWOOD — There is an increase in demand for home caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic and one company in central Indiana is looking to fill dozens of positions.
Senior Helpers, based out of Greenwood, is looking to hire about 50 caregivers as the number of people needing their services is increasing.
Amy Pitcock worked for the state for 20 years before she decided to make a change to a career where she could help people.
"I just wanted something fulfilling and positive," Pitcock said. "A lot of them don't have a lot of family around, so to be able to be that light for them especially in times like now."
She was hired by Senior Helpers, a non-medical in-home care agency. Caregivers help with things like housekeeping, cooking, and buying groceries.
"We are seeing a lot of clients that don't feel comfortable going to the store, don't feel comfortable moving into a facility, don't feel comfortable in general being around people," Charity Stibolt, Care Team Director for Senior Helpers, said.
Overall employment of home health aides and personal care aides is projected to increase by 36 percent from 2018 to 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. This is much faster than the average for all other occupations.
With seniors trying to stay home and minimize their chances of getting COVID-19, Pitcock says many seniors are isolated and need someone to be there with them.
"One of our main things right now is companion care that makes a big difference in their life to give them some positiveness and visit with them," Pitcock said. "Very humbling and makes me feel good that you can be some light in the middle darkness."
No experience is required to be a caregiver with Senior Helpers and training is provided. The company is looking to hire people who have a heart and want to help others.
The pay varies based on certificates applicants have and will get a raise after 90 days with the company. A sign-on bonus is also provided.
To learn more about the open positions, click here.
