What tasks does a home health aide perform?

I'm thinking of getting into home health care after high school. What are the common responsibilities of a home health aide? Is it mostly personal care, and does it require a lot of physical work? Would appreciate any details!

A home health aide typically provides basic care for patients in their homes, and their specific tasks can range from medical to domestic duties depending on the needs of the patients they serve.

In terms of medical care, a home health aide may check vital signs, administer medications, and assist with basic medical equipment if needed. They could also be involved in assisting with physical therapy exercises and help in managing care plans under the supervision of a registered nurse or other healthcare professional.

When it comes to personal care, home health aides are often responsible for helping patients with day-to-day tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. This is where some physical work may come into play, as you may need to assist patients with mobility, including moving from bed to wheelchair, or helping with light exercises.

In addition to that, domestic tasks like meal preparation, doing light housekeeping, and running errands are also common responsibilities. This could include shopping for groceries, picking up prescriptions, or even just helping to manage a patient's household.

Educational requirements for this job vary, but at least a high school diploma is generally needed. Some states require formal training through vocational schools, community colleges, and home healthcare agencies. Certification can also boost your credentials. Overall, being a home health aide can be physically demanding but also very rewarding, as you're directly helping individuals maintain their independence and comfort in their own homes.