Official State of Rhode Island website

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State of Rhode Island, Caring Careers Rhode Island , Executive Office of Health and Human Services

Personal Care Aide

Job Summary

Personal Care Aides (PCAs) assist older adults, people with disabilities, or those recovering from an illness or injury (such as after a surgery) with daily living activities like preparing meals or getting dressed. PCAs may also advise individuals and their families on nutrition, cleanliness, and how to perform household activities safely. Because these services are often provided in the home, some individuals value receiving services from PCAs that come from the same background or speak the same language as them.
 

Required Education / Training Summary

Personal Care Aides must have a High School Diploma or GED. You do not need a college degree to become a Personal Care Aide. Depending on the setting where you work, your employer may require you to complete a brief training before beginning to work as a Personal Care Aide