The Personal Care Assistant (PCA)/Direct Care Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered care and support to individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or age-related conditions. The PCA/DSP assists clients with daily living activities while promoting independence, dignity, safety, and overall well-being in the home or community setting.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist clients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and personal hygiene.
- Help with mobility, transfers, ambulation, and the use of mobility equipment when needed.
- Prepare and serve meals according to dietary needs and assist with feeding if required.
- Perform light housekeeping duties, including laundry, dishwashing, vacuuming, and maintaining a clean living environment.
- Remind or assist clients with medication as directed by the care plan and agency policy.
- Provide companionship and emotional support while encouraging independence and social engagement.
- Accompany clients to medical appointments, community activities, and errands as needed.
- Observe and report changes in the client's physical, emotional, or behavioral condition to the supervisor.
- Maintain accurate documentation of services provided and client progress.
- Follow individualized care plans and comply with all agency policies, confidentiality requirements, and safety procedures.
- Maintain professional, respectful, and positive relationships with clients, families, and healthcare team members.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Previous experience in personal care, home health, caregiving, or direct support is preferred but not always required.
- Current CPR and Negative TB test.
- Ability to pass background checks and meet state or agency requirements.
- Valid driver's license/State ID and reliable transportation may be required.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to lift, transfer, and assist clients safely (up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation).
Skills & Abilities:
- Compassionate, patient, and dependable.
- Strong observation and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to maintain client confidentiality.
- Excellent time management and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Work Environment:
- Client homes, residential facilities, or community settings.
- May require prolonged standing, walking, bending, lifting, and assisting with transfers.
- Exposure to various home environments and community locations.
