What To Expect From PCA Training: A Comprehensive Overview

As people age, many need help with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, or taking medication. About 70% of Americans over the age of 65 will need some form of long-term care in their lifetime, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This is where a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) becomes important. 

PCAs help people live safely and comfortably in their own homes or care facilities. PCAs are not just helpers. They are companions who make life easier. If you are thinking about a job that lets you care for others, getting PCA certification might be the perfect path for you. So, keep reading to learn what a PCA is, how to get certified, and what skills are needed to become one. 

Read More: What is the Difference Between PCA and CNA?

Who is a Personal Care Assistant?

If you're wondering what a PCA is in healthcare, the answer is simple. A PCA is a trained aide who provides support services to individuals needing personal or medical care. They assist with hygiene, mobility, meals, and other daily needs. Some people need a PCA because they can’t move easily or they have medical problems. The PCA helps them stay safe and live as normally as possible, either at home or in a care center.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 3.96 million PCA and home health aide jobs in 2022, and this number is expected to keep growing. PCAs are kind, patient, and responsible. They make sure the person they care for feels respected, happy, and cared for.

Now that we know what a PCA is in nursing, let us see who can become one. 

Read More: Caretaker Vs Caregiver - Know the Differences

Who Can Be a PCA?

Almost anyone with a caring heart can become a Personal Care Assistant (PCA). You don’t need a college degree or years of education to get started. This makes it a great option for people who want to join the healthcare field quickly. However, the basic requirements to become a PCA are as follows: 

• Be at least 18 years old: You must be an adult to work as a PCA. This helps make sure you are responsible enough to care for someone.

• Finish high school or earn a GED: Most places require a high school diploma or a GED (General Educational Development) program. This shows that you have basic reading, writing, and thinking skills.

• Take a PCA certification course: Some states or employers require you to take a short training course. This course teaches you how to safely help someone with things like bathing, dressing, and eating.

• Learn basic health and safety skills: You may be taught how to check vital signs, such as heart rate, and how to help in an emergency. You might also learn about keeping things clean to stop the spread of germs.

• Get CPR and First Aid certification (if needed): Some jobs require you to know how to perform CPR and basic First Aid. These skills can help you save a life in an emergency.

• Apply for jobs through an agency or privately: Once you're trained, you can apply to be a PCA with a health agency or work with a family directly. Make sure you have all your necessary paperwork ready, such as certificates and ID.

To become a PCA, you also need to pass a background check. This helps protect clients and makes sure they are in safe hands. In some states or for some employers, you may need to:

• Take a health screening or a TB test to show you are healthy enough for the job.

• Show proof that you have received certain vaccinations.

• Pass a skills test or a written exam at the end of training.

Read More: How to Get a HHA Certificate

PCA Duties and Responsibilities

Between 2011 and 2022, the number of family caregivers in the U.S. increased from 18.2 million to 24.1 million, indicating that many more older adults now require help with everyday tasks. (Wolff, Cornman, Freedman – Health Affairs, Feb 2025). PCAs help clients with everyday tasks, allowing them to live safely and comfortably. Some of the main duties a PCA performs:

Personal Care Support

PCAs assist clients with tasks such as bathing, brushing their hair, getting dressed, and using the bathroom. These basic routines protect skin health, prevent infections, and keep clients feeling refreshed and looking their best. 

Meal Preparation and Feeding

PCAs make simple meals based on dietary needs and the doctor’s orders. For clients with limited mobility or strength, they also help with feeding. This ensures that clients stay well-nourished and avoid risks like malnutrition or dehydration, which is especially important as care needs increase.

Medication Reminders

PCAs remind clients to take their medications on time but don’t typically administer them. This helps clients stay on schedule with their treatment plans and reduces the risk of missed doses or confusion.

Mobility Assistance

Helping clients move safely from their bed to a chair or around the house is a key responsibility. PCAs reduce the risk of falls and encourage light activity, which supports muscle health and balance. This is especially important as the number of care hours per week increased by 50% for dementia-related care, as found in the 2022 caregiver data.

Light Housekeeping

PCAs handle light cleaning such as laundry, sweeping, and organizing the client’s space. A clean and orderly environment reduces health risks and supports overall comfort, particularly for those who can no longer maintain their space independently.

Companionship and Social Support

PCAs offer more than just physical help. They also talk with clients, play games, and watch TV with them. Social interaction like this helps reduce feelings of isolation, a common experience among older adults.

Transportation and Errands

If permitted, PCAs help clients attend medical appointments or run errands, such as shopping for groceries. These tasks support daily functioning and help clients maintain routines that promote their overall well-being.

PCAs must always follow a care plan written by a nurse or supervisor. They also report any changes in the client’s health, behavior, or mood so proper care can be given.

Read More: Who Are Home Caregivers? All You Need To Know

What are the Skills Required to Become a PCA?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for personal care aides are projected to grow 21% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. To be a good PCA, you need more than just training. You also need the right personality and soft skills to help people feel safe, respected and understood. These qualities help you build trust and provide better care every day. The important skills required are:

1. Compassion

Compassion means showing kindness and care. After PCA certification, you often work with people who may feel scared, sick, or lonely. Clients feel safer and more comfortable when they know you truly care about them.

2. Patience

Patience is very important when caring for others. Some clients may take longer to speak, move, or understand. Tasks like dressing or eating may also be slow. You must stay calm and never rush them. Being patient shows respect and helps your client feel valued and supported.

3. Good Communication

A PCA must speak clearly and listen carefully. You’ll need to follow instructions from nurses or family members. It’s also important to explain things in a way the client understands. Listening well helps you understand their needs, and good communication builds trust between you and the client.

4. Physical Strength

Sometimes, you’ll help clients get out of bed, walk, or use a wheelchair. These tasks require strength and safe body movements. You don’t have to be a bodybuilder, but you should be fit enough to help without hurting yourself or the client. Training helps you learn how to lift safely and effectively.

5. Time Management

PCAs often have multiple tasks to complete in a day. You will have to provide help with meals, cleaning, and medications on a schedule. Good time management means planning your time wisely so everything gets done. This keeps your client’s day smooth and helps you stay organized.

6. Observation

A good PCA notices small changes in a client’s behavior or health. This could be changes in mood, appetite, or physical condition. Watching closely helps catch problems early, like infections or pain. You should report anything unusual to a nurse or doctor so the client gets help quickly.

7. Cleanliness

Keeping things clean is very important. You help prevent infections by keeping the client’s home, clothes, and your hands clean. Personal hygiene is also part of care, helping clients stay clean and neat. A clean environment helps the client stay healthy and feel more comfortable.

8. Respect and Trustworthiness

Clients often depend on PCAs for very personal care. You must respect their privacy, listen to their wishes, and treat them with dignity. Being honest and dependable builds trust. When a client feels safe with you, they are more comfortable and open, which helps you care for them better.

What is the Salary of A PCA in the USA?

The salary after PCA certification in the USA can vary based on location, employer, and experience. On average, PCAs earn around $33,530 per year. PCAs working in big cities or states with higher living costs, like California, New York, or Massachusetts, often earn more.  Pay can also be higher if you work for a private client, a hospital, or a specialized care agency rather than through a government-funded program. The top five states with salaries are:

Many employers offer extra benefits such as:

• Paid time off

• Health insurance

• Ongoing training

• Opportunities to move into higher roles

While the salary may not be high, PCA jobs are steady and in high demand. With experience and additional training, you can transition into higher-paying healthcare roles over time. It’s a solid career path for caring individuals.

What Is The Difference Between CNA and PCA?

Many people assume Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Personal Care Assistants (PCAs) are the same profession. This is because both roles involve helping people with their daily needs. Both jobs require compassion, patience, and a desire to care for others. However, there are differences in their training, job duties, and work settings.

Read More: What is the Difference Between PCA and CNA?

Become a Personal Care Assistant Today!

Being a PCA is a meaningful job that helps people live with comfort, dignity, and independence. PCAs support clients with daily tasks, offer companionship, and protect their well-being. This job doesn’t need years of school, just the right training, a caring heart, and a desire to help others. It’s also a great first step for starting your career in the healthcare field. 

If you want to start a rewarding career in a short time, now is the best time to begin online PCA training. Sign up for a PCA course today and start making a real impact!

FAQs

1. Is a CNA higher than a PCA?

Yes, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) generally holds a higher qualification than a Personal Care Assistant (PCA). CNAs receive more medical training, can perform clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, and often work under the supervision of licensed nurses. PCAs provide basic support, like hygiene and mobility help, usually in home settings.

2. How to get a PCA in MN?

To become a PCA in Minnesota, you must complete the free online PCA training and pass a test provided by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). After that, you can work through an agency or as a family caregiver. Background checks may also be required before you start employment.

3. What does PCA certified mean?

PCA certified means a person has completed the necessary training to become a Personal Care Assistant. Certification shows that they can provide support with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and mobility. It also means they understand safety, privacy, and emergency procedures when caring for elderly, disabled, or chronically ill individuals.

4.  How do I get a PCA license in Virginia?

In Virginia, you can become a PCA by completing a state-approved Personal Care Aide training program, which usually includes at least 40 hours of instruction. Some programs are free through agencies. After training, you may receive a certificate of completion and can start working under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers.

References: 

• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home-health-aides-and-personal-care-aides.htm#tab-1

• https://www.coursera.org/articles/personal-care-aide

• https://www.yourcareer.gov.au/occupations/423313/personal-care-assistant