Senior living is a growing industry where you can do just about anything, and the great part is, it’s an accessible industry that has a lot of overlap with other industries. You may be considering getting a start in or making a switch to senior living, but you don’t know where to begin. To help you break into the industry, we’ve written this quick guide to help you kickstart your career in senior living.

How to Start and Where to Go

Because the industry is so accessible, there are multiple entry points where a person can find their place in senior living. Whether you are starting fresh or have transferable skills, you’ll find that there is a clear path for you to get in and grow. Here are the ways you can start your career and grow.

Volunteer to gain experience

If you’re brand new to senior living, volunteering at a local continuing care retirement community (CCRC), assisted living, or memory care community is a great first step to immerse yourself. Volunteering offers a low-risk, low-commitment way to be in a community environment and see firsthand the day-to-day operations. It’s an opportunity to experience the culture, observe the various departments in action and interact with both team members and residents. These experiences can help you get a realistic picture of what a career in senior living looks like and whether it aligns with your personal interests and values.

Volunteering also allows you to see which roles or departments you may be most passionate about. These experiences will help you build a foundational understanding of the skills that are most valuable in this field. Whether it’s building relationships, supporting residents, planning activities or learning senior living, many of these skills are easily transferable and can give you a head start if you decide to pursue a full-time career in the industry. Ultimately, volunteering can be a stepping stone that not only clarifies your interest but also builds meaningful connections and opens doors to future opportunities in senior living.

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Start with entry-level opportunities

If you’ve made the decision to pursue a career in senior living, a great place to start is by exploring entry-level positions. These roles provide valuable on-the-job experience and can help you build a strong foundation for long-term growth in the industry. Opportunities like housekeeping, working security or serving as a caregiver are often available and typically don’t require certifications or extensive experience.

These roles are particularly well-suited for people with backgrounds in the hospitality industry, where skills easily translate well into the senior living space. Starting in one of these positions not only gets your foot in the door but also gives you the opportunity to discover which aspects of senior living resonate with you the most. From there, you can grow your career, pursue additional training or certifications and take advantage of advancement opportunities within the community.

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Pursue relevant education and certifications

Another great advantage of working in the senior living industry is the opportunity for long-term growth and professional development. At Masonic Homes Kentucky, we take pride in a culture that supports and uplifts our team members as they pursue new goals. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take the next step in your career, we encourage and actively support continued education and certification efforts.

Certifications such as becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can significantly expand your career options within the senior living field. These credentials not only open doors to more specialized and higher-paying roles but also give you the chance to have a greater impact on residents’ daily lives. Educational support programs and career pathways are a great way to help employees grow in their field of interest. Many of these programs can be flexible, allowing team members to work toward their certifications while maintaining their current roles within the community. This makes it easier to grow your career without having to sacrifice job stability or income. At Masonic Homes Kentucky, we believe in helping you grow where you’re planted, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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Starting a career in senior living doesn’t require years of experience, just a willingness to serve, grow and make a difference. Whether you begin by volunteering, stepping into an entry-level role or pursuing further education and certifications, there’s a place for you in this rewarding and dynamic industry. At Masonic Homes Kentucky, we’re committed to helping you find your path, develop your potential and thrive in a career that truly matters. If you’re ready to take the first step, explore our current opportunities and discover how you can build a meaningful future in senior living.