Personal care aides, also known as caregivers, are experiencing a significant surge in demand, with a job growth outlook of 21%, which is considerably faster than the average for all occupations. It is projected that approximately 718,900 new positions will be created annually over the next decade. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024) This trend aligns with census data indicating a rising senior population. According to census.gov, the number of seniors is expected to increase from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050, representing a substantial 47% growth. (Bureau, 2023 National Population Projections Tables: Main Series, 2023)
Caregivers are professionals dedicated to providing essential care to individuals in need. Their daily responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks. In the realm of basic hygiene, caregivers assist with bathing, toileting, brushing teeth, grooming hair, trimming nails, and other routine activities. In terms of meal-related tasks, they handle meal preparation, feeding, and grocery shopping. Caregivers may also run errands outside the home, such as picking up prescriptions and groceries. Light housekeeping duties include cleaning up after meals, maintaining overall home cleanliness, managing mail, and doing laundry. Additionally, caregivers assist with managing household affairs and personal matters. While non-medical caregivers can support individuals in self-administering medications, they are not authorized to administer medications themselves. Overall, caregivers provide hands-on assistance with both activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living.
To become a caregiver, certain requirements must be met, including CPR certification, a valid driver’s license, and Home Health Aide (HHA) certification. HHA certifications can be obtained through an accredited agency or educational institution available both online or in-person. Typically, a high school diploma or GED is required. Many caregivers choose to further their education to become State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNAs) or nurses, with caregiving experience serving as a valuable foundation for their careers.
However, the caregiver profession faces challenges, particularly with high turnover rates. In 2023, the turnover rate for caregivers reached 79.2%. Alarmingly, four out of five caregivers leave their positions within the first 100 days of employment, according to the 2024 Activated Insights Benchmarking Report. (Home Care Turnover Rate Jumps to 80%...HCAOA is Here to Help Members!, 2024) This high turnover presents significant staffing challenges for the industry.
If you’re interested in starting services, please search for your local caregiving agency. All agencies provide certified caregivers that have verified BCI background check, reference checks, skills checks, CPR certification, and PCA or HHA certification. Most agencies can schedule for an in home visit to meet you and the individual that requires help. Caregivers are ready within a few days. Ensure you check the agency's reviews on google or the company's website. A good agency will provide information on the care they provide, include reviews, and be a resource for individuals seeking care. Ensure you feel confident and comfortable with the agency you are choosing prior to completing any forms or calling.
References:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024b, August 29). Home Health and Personal Care Aides. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home-health-aides-and-personal-care-aides.htm
Bureau, U. C. (2023, October 31). 2023 national population projections tables: Main series. Census.gov. https://www.census.gov/data/tables/2023/demo/popproj/2023-summary-tables.html
Home Care Association of America. (2024, July 17). Home care turnover rate jumps to 80%...HCAOA is here to help members!. Home Care Association of America. https://www.hcaoa.org/newsletters/home-care-turnover-rate-jumps-to-80hcaoa-is-here-to-help-members#:~:text=The%20median%20turnover%20rate%20for,(formerly%20Home%20Care%20Pulse).