Direct Care Worker

A direct care worker provides assistance and care to the elderly, the developmentally or physically disabled, or

clients in rehabilitation programs. The job description of a direct care worker involves patience, empathy, strong

interpersonal skills, and a detailed knowledge of best care practices.

Position Description

A direct care worker provides a number of services depending on the needs of the individual; these might

include running errands, helping clients move around their homes, counseling individuals on independent

living, and administering prescribed medication.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities Of a Direct Care Worker

• Helps the elderly or physically disabled move from room to room around their homes.
• Assists individuals in dressing, bathing, and completing basic hygiene tasks.
• Oversees any required rehabilitation exercises.
• Ensures that individuals take their prescribed medications.
• Prepares meals that adhere to special dietary considerations.
• Assists with light cleaning and housework.
• Teaches developmentally disabled adults how to adopt basic independent living skills.
• Helps adults with developmental disorders learn to make a budget and complete basic household tasks.
• Works with disabled children in the school system, providing support and assistance during daily activities.
• Meets with family to discuss needs of clients.
• Runs errands to the grocery store, laundromat, cleaners, drugstore, and other necessary locations.
• Serves as a companion for the elderly who live alone.
• Organizes activities for clients.

Required Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Demonstrates patience and compassion.
• Possesses excellent interpersonal skills.
• Works well with a variety of different individuals.
• Possesses detailed knowledge of client's condition, symptoms, and medications.
• Exhibits ability to think quickly and act calmly in an emergency.
• Demonstrates strong organizational skills.
• Communicates clearly and effectively.
• Possesses strong listening skills.
• Pays close attention to detail.
• Possesses physical stamina required to help individuals move around.
• Possesses emotional strength necessary to work with ailing clients.
• Demonstrates awareness of proper first aid and emergency response procedures.
• Maintains friendly and open demeanor at all times.

Education and Experience

A direct care worker holds a high school diploma, as well as an Associate's Degree or certification as a Nurse's

Aide or Nursing Assistant. Direct care workers are also required to successfully complete a training program,

commissioned by a private company or by their state of residence prior to beginning work. These programs can

last anywhere from 1-3 months, and usually culminate in a final exam.