Homemaker-Home Health Aide

 

Career Description

Also known by the titles of home health aide, home care aide and personal care attendant, the homemaker-home health aide cares for elderly and disabled people in their own homes. Often, clients have been released from hospitals or nursing homes or suffer from debilitating illnesses that restrict their independence. Duties performed by home health aides include housekeeping chores, such as laundry and cleaning; planning and cooking meals; bathing; dressing and grooming the patient; reminding the patient to take medications; assisting in movement and exercise; and serving as a companion both inside and outside of the home.

Academic Requirements

State training requirements for homemaker-home health aides vary. For cases where Medicare offers reimbursement, the federal government demands aides pass a 12-part competency exam that includes communication skills, basic knowledge of body function and changes, proper procedures in the event of an emergency, nutrition and other skills involving the care of ailing individuals.

Schools

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Professional Associations

National
National Association for Home Care

State
Missouri Alliance for Home Care

Additional Information

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