What is direct care work?

Direct care workers go by many different titles – from home care aides to nursing assistants. And although they work in different settings and do sometimes very different work, these men and women are all considered direct care workers.

Brenda Nachtway, Nurse’s Aid: I’m a nurse’s aide for a hospital-based hospice. I see terminal patients in their homes in a three-county area and in nursing homes, providing comfort and support to patients and their families. I am a direct care worker.

Bridget Siljander, CNA: I provided support to a man with multiple sclerosis for nine years, helping him with activities of daily living. With my assistance, he was able to get out and enjoy evenings with his friends, attend special occasions with his children, get to medical appointments, and more. I am a direct care worker.

Vicki Erickson, CNA: I work in a nursing home, monitoring residents’ vital signs and helping them eat, bathe, use the restroom and even walk. One of my favorite parts of the job is being able to lend an ear when there’s something they want to talk about. I am a direct care worker.

Millions of Americans are dependent on direct care workers like Brenda, Vicki and Bridget, but many of these workers aren’t getting paid enough to support themselves and their families. Despite the workers’ commitment and love for their consumers, they are forced to look for other jobs when they are unable to make a livable wage or secure health insurance. Read more about the challenges direct care workers face and download these PDFs for more information:

• Key Issues & Our Agenda
• Direct Care Workers in Long-Term Care (PDF)
• About Direct Care Workers (PDF)
• The Growing Demand for Direct Care Workers (PDF)