Assistant, ADL

What does an assistant within ADL do? – Tasks and work environment

An assistant specializing in ADL (Activities of Daily Living) supports people with disabilities in their everyday life so they can live as independently as possible. Tasks include help with personal hygiene, dressing and undressing, meals, transfers, and sometimes companionship and social activities. The work requires great sensitivity, respect for the user's privacy, and the ability to adapt interventions to individual needs. The environment can vary from private homes to different types of residences, and assistants often work both independently and closely with other healthcare and social care professionals.

Salary development over time

The salary development for an assistant, ADL has been positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 29100 SEK per month, increased to 30 300 SEK in 2023, and reached 31 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 7.2% over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for the profession as more people qualify for personal assistance and employers need to offer competitive wages to recruit and retain staff. The trend shows that the profession is valued higher, which aligns with the Employment Service's forecasts of increasing needs and recruitment difficulties in the field.

Assistant, ADL salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 31 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (men), 29,700 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 34,000 SEK/month (men), 33,200 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 187 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn as much as men in this profession
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as an assistant within ADL, usually no formal university education is required, but employers often prefer applicants to have completed the care and welfare program at high school or equivalent. Personal qualities, experience with similar tasks, and various shorter training courses or certifications can be advantageous. Many employers also offer internal training and supervision to ensure assistants have the right skills for the user's specific needs.

• High school education: Care and welfare program (3 years)
• Additional courses: For example in lifting techniques, transfers, CPR
• Practical experience: Previous work in healthcare/social care is meritorious
• Pre-requisites: Good knowledge of the Swedish language
• Certificates: No formal certification required, but some employers may request proof of completed courses

Common benefits and compensations

Assistants within ADL are often offered benefits such as collective agreement-based occupational pension, wellness grants, compensation for unsocial hours, and opportunities for skill development through internal training. In some cases, insurance and subsidized work clothing may also be included, depending on the employer and employment type.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an assistant, ADL varies depending on region and employer, but nationally, job opportunities are considered very good. The Employment Service reports significant recruitment difficulties and an increasing demand for the profession over the next five years. A challenge is that many work part-time, which can affect both income and work environment. Other challenges include meeting the diverse needs of users, working independently, and handling sometimes physically and mentally demanding tasks.

Tips for those who want to become an assistant within ADL

To succeed as an assistant within ADL, it is good to be attentive and genuinely interested in helping others in everyday life. Strong communication skills, both listening and expressing oneself, facilitate cooperation with users and colleagues. Flexibility is an important trait, as tasks can vary day-to-day and sometimes require quick adjustments. Patience and stress resistance help when unexpected situations arise, and a professional attitude contributes to the user's safety. It is also advantageous to be responsible and thorough, especially regarding medication management or reporting. Finally, initiative and independence are appreciated, as the work often takes place without constant supervision.

Key facts about assistant, ADL

• Educational level: Care and welfare program at high school recommended
• Work environment: Variation between private homes and special accommodations
• Typical employment type: Permanent or hourly employment
• Demand: Great opportunities for work, increasing needs according to the Employment Service
• Gender distribution: Equal wages between men and women

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an assistant within ADL, there may be opportunities to take on more responsibility, such as coordinator, supervisor, or trainer within the organization. Some choose to further their education to become assistant nurses or registered nurses, while others deepen their expertise in specialized assistance or disability areas. The Employment Service's forecast indicates that the demand for personal assistants is expected to increase over the next five years, providing good future prospects for those wishing to develop within the profession. For those interested in working with people and making a real difference in their daily lives, the profession provides a stable foundation with several development opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about assistant, ADL

• What does an assistant, ADL earn?
  - The average salary for an assistant, ADL is 31 200 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for assistants within ADL?
  - The salary has increased from 29100 SEK in 2022 to 31 200 SEK in 2024, an increase of over 7%.
• Is any special education required to work as an assistant, ADL?
  - A care and welfare program at high school is recommended, but personal qualities and experience are important.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - No, women and men have essentially the same salary within this profession.
• What tasks are included in the role of assistant, ADL?
  - Assistance with personal hygiene, transfers, meals, and social activities.
• What does the future look like for this profession?
  - The Employment Service estimates that demand will increase over the next five years.
• Are there opportunities for further education and career development?
  - Yes, it is possible to pursue additional training and take on more responsibility within the profession.