A Personal Care Aide (PCA) assists people with disabilities and senior citizens who require assistance with tasks such as housekeeping, errands, and personal hygiene. The specific tasks performed may be determined by the terms of a client agreement. These allied health professionals assist individuals in maintaining their independence. Instead of moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility, it may be possible to live at home or in a community-based residential center with the assistance of a personal care aide.
Some people may be eligible for government assistance to cover the cost of a personal care aide. The number of hours covered by the government can vary depending on the level of assistance required. Some people with disabilities, for example, may require constant assistance while others only require assistance on occasion. People can pay out of pocket or seek help from a community organization if their insurance does not cover the cost.
If the client has difficulty with daily tasks such as doing the dishes, vacuuming, or doing the laundry, a personal care aide can help with housekeeping. Some clients require assistance with meal preparation and nutritional planning. Help with errands, such as picking up medications and other items, or assisting the client while they are out and about, can also be a part of the job. Some personal care aides also assist clients with communication and may provide tools to facilitate direct communication for nonverbal people.
Personal care assistance, such as bathing, toileting, and grooming, may also be required. Clients in wheelchairs may require assistance with transfers. A personal care aide cannot provide advanced medical care; injections, wound care, and other services must be performed by a nurse or other medical professional. Clients may require the services of a visiting nurse in addition to a PCA if they are experiencing temporary medical issues.
The level of assistance required varies depending on the nature of a patient’s disabilities, and is usually determined by a care contract that details the services provided. People with chronic illnesses, physical disabilities, cognitive impairments, and other issues can benefit from personal care aides. They must complete a certain amount of training and obtain a license in some areas. Other areas’ regulations do not require this, and anyone can work as a personal care aide. The job may include paid travel with clients who require assistance while on vacation, attending conferences, or participating in other activities.