What does a Home Health Aide do?
Published 3 min read
A home health aide helps people who are sick, injured, or disabled and need assistance taking care of themselves. They help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom. Home health aides also help with light housekeeping tasks and prepare meals.
Home Health Aide job duties include:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Toileting
- Transfers
- Ambulation
- Positioning
- Exercises
- Meals
- Medications
Home Health Aide Job Requirements
A Home Health Aide (HHA) is a person who provides basic personal care and health-related services to patients in their homes. HHAs typically work under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. They may also work independently, providing home health services to patients who have been discharged from the hospital or nursing home.
Most HHAs have at least a high school diploma, although some states require certification from an accredited HHA training program. Some states also require HHAs to pass a criminal background check. Although experience is not always required, it may be helpful, particularly if the HHA is working with elderly or disabled patients.
Home Health Aide Skills
- Patience
- Compassion
- Empathy
- Communication
- Listening
- Observation
- Critical Thinking
- Flexibility
- Adaptability
- Tolerance
- Physical Strength
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How to become a Home Health Aide
A Home Health Aide (HHA) is a person who provides personal care and other services to people who are unable to care for themselves at home. HHAs are also known as home health aides, home care aides, and personal care assistants.
The duties of an HHA can vary depending on the needs of the individual or family, but may include: providing personal care such as bathing, dressing, and grooming; helping with activities of daily living such as eating, toileting, and transferring; providing light housekeeping tasks; and offering companionship.
Becoming an HHA requires completing a training program that is approved by the state in which you live. Training programs typically take between four and twelve weeks to complete, and include both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. After completing a training program, HHAs must pass a competency exam before they can begin working. Some states also require HHAs to complete a criminal background check.
If you are interested in becoming an HHA, contact your local community college or vocational school to inquire about training programs in your area. You can also search for online programs that offer HHA training.
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