Health Careers:
Home Health Aide

What is a home health aide?

Home health aides provide care by traveling to the homes of the elderly, newborns, and children with special needs, or those with injuries or disabilities. They may do such things as light housekeeping, or assist the patient with every day activities such as bathing, tooth brushing, preparing meals, and taking medicine. They may also take the patient to doctor appointments and help with exercise. Usually home health aides work by themselves, but sometimes they work under the guidance of a nurse or physical therapist.

Where does a home health aide work?

A lot of time is spent in a car traveling to patient's homes.

What type of education is needed?

A certificate program at a technical or community college or on-the-job training in nursing homes, hospitals or home health agencies may be options. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training is needed.

What is the salary?

A home health aide's average salary in Vermont is $21,259.

How could a home health aide advance?

Additional education could lead to jobs in nursing, such as licensed practical nurse or a registered nurse.

Where can I go for more information?

www.bls.gov/oco