How Do I Become a Caregiver?
Caregivers are the heart of our community. They are often the primary service that supports aging in place. The Southeast Regional Eldercare Coalition is supportive of the Direct Support Professionals (DSP) and to all caregivers supporting our most vulnerable populations. The term caregiver has many common definitions that encompass a large field of providers that have a variety of titles.
Direct Support Professionals are entry level professionals that provide in-home and community-based support. They offer services such as respite support, personal care services, employment support, chore care services etc. Direct Support Professionals are required to work through an agency of their choice. They must be 18 years or older, able to pass a State and National fingerprinting and background check, have a current CPR/First Aid Certification, be able to document events, and be physically able to do the work. Generally, a Direct Support Professional cannot be a legal decision maker for the person.
