What do health care aides do?

They assist patients with activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting. They may help with feeding or exercise and in some settings help patients take their medications. More specifically, they:

• Assist with bathing, grooming, dressing and other personal hygiene activities
• Assist with feeding patients
• Assist with bed transfers, lifting, turning and walking
• Assist with range of motion exercises
• Assist with simple wound care, respiratory equipment use or urinary care
• Report on patient condition to the nurse
• Assist patients to take their medications
• Communicate with patients

Health care aides are also known as nursing attendants, home support aides, home support workers or residential support workers.

Where do health care aides work?

Health care aides conduct their work in many different settings and contexts, including:

• Long-term care facilities
• Hospitals or health care centres
• Home care
• Communities

What are the credentials for a health care aide?

• Prior to February 2, 2026, Health care aides are required to have an Active status in the HCA Directory.
• After February 2, 2026, Health care aides are required to be in good standing and registered in the CLPNA registry.