Home care staff, care assistant

What does a home care worker in elder care do? – Tasks and work environment

A home care worker in elder care primarily provides support and care to older individuals in their own homes. Tasks include personal care such as hygiene, dressing, and medication, as well as practical chores like cleaning, cooking, and shopping. The role also involves social support and contributing to improved quality of life for clients. The work environment is varied, often involving visits to different homes, which requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to different situations and needs.

Salary development over time

The salary for home care workers and nursing assistants has seen steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK per month, increasing to 27 900 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 28 700, which is approximately a 7.5% increase over a three-year period. This positive trend is partly due to increased demand for elder care staff and efforts to improve working conditions and wages in care professions. Despite noticeable salary increases, the profession still lags behind the national average for many other sectors, but wages are gradually improving as the need for qualified personnel grows.

Home care worker, nursing assistant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 28 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,900 SEK/month (men, municipal sector), 27,000 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (both men and women, private sector)
• Hourly wage: 172 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: None, men and women have the same average salary
• Regional differences: May occur between municipalities and regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a home care worker or nursing assistant, usually no lengthy formal education is required, but a vocational healthcare and social care program at upper secondary level is often advantageous and can increase employment opportunities. Employers place high importance on personal suitability, language skills, and practical experience. An introduction and supervision are often provided at the workplace, and further training options are available for those wishing to develop within the profession.

• Vocational healthcare and social care education: 3 years, recommended but not always mandatory
• Internship or introduction: Common upon employment
• Language skills: Swedish required, sometimes other languages as well
• Further education: Possible to become a licensed practical nurse via adult education (Komvux)
• Personal suitability: Very important for work in clients' homes

Common benefits and compensations

Home care workers and nursing assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for skill development. Overtime work is usually compensated with shift differentials, and some employers provide extra pay for weekend and night shifts. Employment can be full-time, part-time, or hourly, depending on needs and preferences.

Challenges and competition

The job market for home care workers and nursing assistants is characterized by high demand and a clear shortage of applicants, especially for permanent positions. Despite good job prospects, the work involves physical and mental challenges, such as heavy lifting, stress, and sometimes solitary work. An aging population increases the need for staff, but the high proportion of part-time workers makes many positions difficult to fill. Employers often seek flexibility, patience, and good teamwork skills, while the work environment demands independence and responsibility.

Tips for those who want to become a home care worker in elder care

To succeed as a home care worker or nursing assistant, it is helpful to be empathetic and genuinely interested in helping others. Patience and attentiveness are crucial for addressing clients' diverse needs and wishes respectfully. Good physical health facilitates the work, which often involves movement and heavy tasks. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are needed to handle changing situations and quickly adapt to new routines. It is also important to communicate effectively and collaborate with colleagues and relatives. Demonstrating responsibility and thoroughness in documentation and medication management is appreciated by employers. Lastly, a positive attitude and the ability to create a sense of security are highly valued by both clients and colleagues.

Key facts about home care workers, nursing assistants

• Average salary: 28 700 SEK/month
• Lowest/highest salary: 26,900–30,200 SEK/month
• Gender differences: None, men and women have the same salary levels
• Education level: Vocational healthcare and social care education recommended
• Demand: Very high, 375 vacancies and increasing need

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a home care worker or nursing assistant, opportunities exist to further qualify as a licensed practical nurse, specialist nurse, or move into supervisory roles such as coordinator or team leader. Forecasts from the Swedish Employment Service indicate that job opportunities in this field are very good and expected to increase further over the next five years, partly due to an increasingly elderly population. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in finding staff, even though many work part-time. Those pursuing further education and specialization can expect even better job prospects and higher wages.

Frequently asked questions about home care workers, nursing assistants

• What does a home care worker, nursing assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 28 700 SEK/month, with a range of 26,900–30,200 SEK/month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - No, men and women have the same average salary within this profession.
• What education is required to work as a home care worker?
  - A vocational healthcare and social care education at upper secondary level is recommended, but personal suitability and an introduction are also important.
• What is the job market like for home care workers?
  - The job market is very good, with high demand and many available positions.
• What are the usual working hours?
  - Work is often scheduled with day, evening, and weekend shifts, sometimes including nights.
• What benefits are most commonly offered?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and shift differentials.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, further training to become a licensed practical nurse or take on leadership roles are common career paths.