What Qualifications Do You Need to Work with the Elderly?
What Qualifications Do You Need to Work with the Elderly?
Created:Updated: 07-November-2025
- Level 2 Adult Care (RQF) is the typical entry route and is Ofqual-regulated.
- Level 3 Adult Care and Level 3 specialists (Elderly, Dementia) help you move into senior duties.
- You can study flexibly from home; Level 3 normally requires evidence from a real care setting.
Older people’s services span residential care homes, nursing homes, supported living and community/domiciliary care. Below are the recognised qualification routes and how to choose the right starting point.
Recognised entry route: Level 2 Adult Care
The CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Care (RQF) gives you the foundations: person-centred values, communication, safeguarding, dignity and confidentiality. It’s knowledge-based (no placement required) and is suitable for beginners and career-changers.
Progress to senior duties: Level 3 Adult Care
The Level 3 Adult Care Certificate (RQF) builds depth in leadership, documentation, risk and mentoring. You’ll normally need access to a real setting (employed or volunteering) to evidence practice — ideal for stepping into Senior Carer/Team Leader roles.
Specialist pathways for elderly care
- Level 3 Caring for the Elderly — person-centred practice for older adults, frailty, falls awareness and communication with families.
- Level 3 Dementia Care — understanding dementia types, behaviour support, wellbeing, life history and environment design.
These pair well with Level 3 Adult Care to open up specialist Senior Support, Key Worker and Coordinator roles in older people’s services.
Which route is right for you?
| Situation | Good first step | Next logical move |
|---|---|---|
| Brand new to care | Level 2 Adult Care (knowledge-only) | Move into Level 3 once in a role |
| Already working/volunteering in care | Level 3 Adult Care | Add Elderly or Dementia specialism |
| Targeting specialist elderly services | Level 2 or 3 (as above) | Specialist Level 3 (Elderly/Dementia) + experience |
What employers and frameworks expect
Employers value recognised, Ofqual-regulated qualifications and the right values (dignity, respect, independence). Explore standards and career maps at Skills for Care. For job profiles and duties, see the National Careers Service. For NHS opportunities, visit NHS Health Careers.
Get started
Tell us your background and goals — we’ll recommend the right level and pathway for working with older adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Level 2 before Level 3?
Not always. You can start at Level 3 if you have experience/transferable skills and access to a workplace to evidence practice.
Is Dementia Care essential for elderly roles?
It’s not mandatory everywhere, but a dedicated dementia qualification is highly valued in older people’s services.
Can I study from home?
Yes. Level 2 can be completed fully from home; Level 3 usually requires workplace evidence alongside study.
Which qualifications are most recognised?
Ofqual-regulated RQF qualifications from known awarding bodies (e.g., CACHE) are widely recognised by employers.
Useful Guides & Resources
Bottom line
Start with a recognised Level 2 to enter elderly care confidently, then progress to Level 3 and add a specialist (Elderly/Dementia) to open senior roles and better progression.