Homecare caregivers, or Home Care Aides (HCAs) as they are called in California, are authorized to provide a range of essential services to support individuals in their homes, particularly those who require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). These services are governed by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and the Home Care Services Bureau (HCSB). The homecare services that home care aides can provide as well as those that are not allowed are explained in a Fact Sheet issued by HCSB, for example:
1. Personal Care Assistance:
Home care aides are approved to assist clients with personal care tasks, including bathing, grooming, dressing, and maintaining personal hygiene. This support is crucial for individuals who may have limitations due to age, illness, or disability.
2. Meal Preparation and Nutrition:
Ensuring proper nutrition is a vital aspect of home care. Home care aides can assist with meal preparation, taking into consideration any dietary restrictions or preferences of the client.
3. Medication Reminders:
While home care aides are not typically authorized to “administer” medications, they can provide reminders to clients to take their prescribed medications as directed. The unauthorized activities include the dosing or counting of pills and physical administration. In November 20223, the role in medication management support was further clarified by HCSB with the following addition to the Fact Sheet:
The following list contains examples of nonmedical services a Registered Home Care Aide may provide when assisting with medication that the client self-administers:
- Opening the client’s medication bottle/canister/blister pack
- Reminding the client to take medication
- Reminding a client to refill medication
4. Light Housekeeping:
Home care aides can assist with light housekeeping tasks, such as dusting, vacuuming, and tidying up the living space. This helps create a clean and safe environment for the client.
5. Mobility Assistance:
For individuals with mobility challenges, home care aides are approved to provide assistance with activities such as walking, transferring from bed to chair, and getting in and out of vehicles. Mobility assistance can include the use of appropriate mechanical devices
6. Companionship:
Beyond physical assistance, home care aides offer companionship and emotional support. They engage in conversation, accompany clients on walks, and provide a sense of connection and social interaction.
7. Transportation:
Home care aides may be authorized to assist with transportation for clients to medical appointments, grocery shopping, or other essential errands.
8. Record-Keeping and Reporting:
Home care aides are responsible for maintaining accurate records of the care provided, including any changes in the client's condition. Clear communication with supervisors and healthcare professionals is a crucial aspect of their responsibilities. At BrightStar Care, changes in condition are reported to the RN supervisor and will trigger a reassessment of the client.
Home care aides operate within the scope of their training and registration with the Home Case Services Bureau, and certain medical tasks may require the involvement of licensed healthcare professionals such as nurses and therapists.
Services Home Care Organizations and Registered Home Care Aides may NOT Provide
The following list, while not exhaustive, it contains examples of medical services a Registered Home Care Aide may not provide:
- Diabetic insulin shots
- Catheter care
- Bedsore treatment
- Physical therapy
- Glucose readings (blood sugar)
- Tube feedings and care
- IV insertions
- Ventilator dependent care
- Colostomy bag care
- Monitoring/recording vital signs
- Post-surgery wound care
- Medication administration
