I want a job working with the elderly?

I have a B.A. in psychology, and I had a minor in gerontology (the study of the eldery) ... I don't want to be a nurse, I want to do something like working in the activities department. What are other jobs in nursing homes or the best way to get into activities? I can't volunteer because I spend most of my time waitressing to pay the bills. I have no experience. I'm stuck!

Involving yourself in community organizations is your best bet. Working for a non for profit mental health agency will open up some doors, too. You can volunteer at different places which may turn out to be job opportunities for you.

Remember to collect business cards with people you volunteer with. Networking is important.

I work at a nfp mental health agency. I counsel kids at school. But during the summer- Im free to volunteer with any organization that I want to. I volunteered with an elderly group last summer. I met the director and the event coordinator and worked closely with both. I get invited to their events every few months. I don't plan on leaving my current job but I know that if I asked, they would consider me for a position in the future.

Volunteering does not take as much time as you think. I did one hour a week brainstorming for an event that they were having. Most places are just happy that people will show up at all.

never stuck...first, approach your community reach out agencies like meals on wheels...and tell them your story, education, and desires...ask for their suggestions (including, of course, that you will work for a modest salary due to your inexperience) but not too modest! Second, visit the nursing homes in your area, as well as the hospitals and their HR departments, with your resume in hand. you just have to shake a few trees to get attention.

Start calling nursing homes. You might also try the parks and recreation department of you municipality, most cities have senior centers that have and activities director.

I recommend that you contact some local nursing homes and see what they have available. Sounds like you not quite sure of what you would like to do.

There may not be a lot of positions in this type of work. Also try your local staffing agencies to see if they have anything available for you.

Move to Florida, we have a great need for professionals in your field. You may have to take a position you aren't crazy for to get some experience.

try asking around to sit with elderly patients in their homes, it pays good and is sometimes paid in cash.

Nursing homes do have activities departments, you could certainly be qualified to work one in some capacity.

Also, some of the larger mental health facilities have similar departments. Some of these facilities may have specialty wings that are for people with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.

If you are currently working as a waitress and have no real-world experience working with the elderly, you probably will have to start off in a lower-capacity position, so don't be surprised if you get an offer of a job that you think is below your education.