Home health aides are individuals who work in the home of an elderly person, the disabled and convalescent people. Under the supervision of a Resident Nurse, they provide health-related services such as giving medication, checking vital signs, changing bandages, giving massages, assisting with hygiene and skin care, and helping with medical equipment.

Requirements to become a home health aide differ by state. There are states that require Home Health Aide Certification, so home health aides must acquire their Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) credential first. Voluntary certification to demonstrate that industry standards are met is available from the National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC).