Home Care Workers

Abstract Home care workers are a key component of the formal home health and social care workforce. They work under the supervision of a health care professional or under the direction of a client. The location of their work may vary from a client's home to a supportive housing environment. They provide a range of services including personal care, light housekeeping, clinical care services, and delegated acts. The majority of workers are women and middle‐aged, and many are migrant workers. They tend to work part‐time, with low pay and few benefits. Recruitment and retention of home care workers is an issue. Their jobs expose them to many occupational health and safety hazards. However, many home care workers gain satisfaction in their work and the caring relationships they have with their clients.