In 2005, Ahna’s life changed suddenly. Her mother became unexpectedly ill, she needed immediate, round-the-clock care. At the time, Ahna was already serving as an at-home foster mom for a young man with developmental disabilities. Suddenly, she found herself managing a household of complex needs.
“It was a shock at first,” Ahna admits. “But it became a very special time in my life. It brought me closer to my Mum in lovely ways. I feel lucky that I was able to be there for her.”
Ahna cared for her mother for five years until she passed away at the age of 89. Through that experience, she discovered a profound truth: Many people become care providers out of necessity, but they stay because of the connection.
A few years later, a friend who had suffered a devastating fall from a ladder became increasingly disabled, Ahna stepped in to help. Eventually, he asked her to register as his official paid homecare provider through Northwest Senior & People with Disabilities. Ahna was hesitant at first, she was a friend, not a “worker.” But as she navigated the process, she realized that becoming a professional didn’t mean losing the heart of the relationship. In fact, it provided her with the stability of a paycheck and excellent medical benefits while allowing her to provide the high-quality care her friend deserved.
After her friend passed, Ahna realized she had developed a unique set of skills. She began taking on new clients, each with different needs. “Showing patience and kindness is important,” Ahna says. “Not taking things personally if a client is sharp or grumpy, but trying to understand their situation.”
Like Ahna, many people realize that the patience and kindness they naturally offer are actually professional-grade skills. By registering as an official provider, you can gain the stability of benefits and pay while continuing to do the work that matters most.
If caregiving has been a calling or an interest to you, here are some resources to help you get started.Oregon Home Care Commission offers three primary paths, allowing you to choose the role that best fits your heart and skills.
- Home Care Worker (HCW): If you feel drawn to supporting seniors or individuals with physical challenges, this role allows you to assist with vital daily needs like dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping.
- Personal Support Worker (PSW): If you prefer working with children or adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, this role focuses on behavioral support, job coaching, and helping clients navigate the community through outings like grocery shopping.
- Personal Care Attendant (PCA): Ideal for those interested in mental health support, this role combines assistance with daily living and medication reminders with the implementation of proactive coping strategies.
Both paths are designed to foster independence, and because the training is flexible, you can grow into the role that feels most meaningful to you.
Ahna also noted that while the work is heart-centered, the professional benefits can be life-changing.
- Registered workers through the SEIU 503 union often receive a medical benefit card—to spend on co-pays, prescriptions, and medical expenses.
- Benefits include dental, vision, and even hearing and mental health counseling.
- Through the Oregon Home Care Commission, you can take online classes to sharpen your skills. Not only is the training free, but they often pay you a stipend just for completing the courses.
Many people hesitate because they don’t have a medical background. Ahna’s advice, start where you are.
“I knew nothing about a bed-bound person,” Ahna recalls. “I went on YouTube and learned professional nursing demonstrations. I learned how to change linens and use equipment as I went.”
Today, the process is even more accessible:
- Online Orientation: Get your provider number through an online or in-person session.
- Virtual Training: Even CPR and First Aid can be done via video with a live instructor.
- Finding Clients: Use Carina, an online registry that matches providers with consumers.
Beyond the chores and the medical checks, Ahna believes the true “work” is companionship. “Loneliness is as painful as a broken bone,” she says. “That bond you create is so important. It’s not just fixing a meal; it’s giving someone their dignity and a reason to smile.”
Whether you are a young person looking for a flexible career with a living wage, or someone who simply wants to help a neighbor stay in their home, Home Care offers a way to work with your hands and your heart.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
- Local Support: Carewell SEIU 503
Training Resources: Visit Oregon Home Care Commission