By: BLS.gov

Job Description

Many people who are frail, sick or disabled would prefer to receive their care in the comfort of their homes, rather than a nursing home or medical facility. Comfort is important, but home care also makes good financial sense.

Home health care aides are the ones who make it safe and pleasant for patients to stay at home. Under the supervision of nurses or medical staff, home health aides provide basic, yet crucial, health services including checking pulse, respiration and temperature. They also help patients take their medications, bathe and change their position in bed or assist them with moving around in the house.

Median Salary

$10.50 per hour

Education Requirements

Most home health care aides are employed by home care agencies. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually needed, but some agencies hire high school stude ts for part-time jobs. Newly hired aides usually receive classroom training from their employer or they receive on-the-job instruction from licensed nurses or more experienced aides.

Job Outlook

As the American population ages, the job outlook for home health aides should continue to improve.