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In 2011, the "baby boom" generation will begin to turn 65, and by 2030, it is projected that one in five people will be age 65 or older.
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Have you ever had a cold, broken a bone or given blood? During your lifetime, it is likely that you will require the services of someone who has devoted their career to caring for others. Though nursing is one of the most prolific caregiving professions with more than 2.3 million employed in the United States, there are millions of others who work as healthcare aides, physiotherapists and homecare workers, to name just a few.
Though we have always required their services, the need for employees in this field continues to grow steadily. At the turn of the century, the average life expectancy was 47; today it is 75. This means that more preventative care is being provided, keeping people healthier over longer periods of time. As the population increases, more and more individuals are requiring services, both to maintain their health and to battle illness and disease.
Moreover, because of advances in medicine and technology, people are able to live longer with chronic illness. Currently, only 20% of the chronically ill receive treatment while living in healthcare facilities; therefore, the demand for homecare is at an all-time high. There is also an increase in the number of children born with physical defects who survive because of technological advances. Providing care for these people throughout their lives requires the support of many people in the healthcare field.
A career as a caregiver is not for everyone. Although working as a caregiver is very rewarding, it can also be very challenging. This test will evaluate whether John has the key skills and personality traits to succeed as a caregiver.
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