Nursing assistant, home care

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

A care assistant in home care provides support and care to elderly or persons with disabilities who live in their own homes. Tasks include practical assistance with personal care, cleaning, shopping, cooking, and social companionship. It often also involves observing and reporting changes in the client’s health to nurses or other healthcare staff. The work is performed independently but in close cooperation with colleagues and sometimes relatives. The work environment can be physically and mentally demanding, with many short visits to different clients during a shift and transportation between homes.

Salary development over time

The salary for care assistants in home care has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK, rising to 27 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 28 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.5% during the period. The trend shows that the profession has experienced a slightly stronger salary growth than the average on the labor market, likely linked to increased demand for staff in elderly care and home services. The shortage of trained personnel and increased pressure on healthcare have led employers to offer more competitive wages to attract and retain employees. The salary development is also a result of union negotiations aimed at improving conditions within care professions.

Care assistant, home care salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 28 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,900 SEK/month (male, municipal sector), 27,000 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (privately employed, both men and women)
• Hourly wage (average): 172 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: None – men and women have the same average salary
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on municipality and employment type

Education and qualifications

To work as a care assistant in home care, usually no formal higher education is required, but employers prefer applicants who have completed the healthcare and social care program at high school or equivalent adult education. Practical experience from care work is meritorious, and many employers offer introductory training. There is also the possibility to validate experience and obtain qualifications through shorter courses or on-the-job training. Personal qualities and the ability to work independently are highly valued in recruitment.

• High school education: Healthcare and social care program (3 years)
• Adult education: Komvux, care assistant training (about 1 year)
• Internships: Often included in the training or offered upon employment
• Courses/certificates: Dementia, lifting techniques, basic hygiene routines
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish skills in speech and writing, sometimes driver's license

Common benefits and compensations

Care assistants in home care are often offered overtime pay for work during evenings, nights, and weekends, which can significantly increase their salary. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, collective insurance schemes, and sometimes access to training or skill development. Some employers also provide subsidized lunches or bicycle allowances.

Competition and challenges

The job market for care assistants in home care is characterized by high demand but also some recruitment difficulties. Many work part-time, which can pose challenges for continuity and work environment. The profession is physically demanding, often involving heavy lifting and many transfers between clients. High demands are placed on flexibility and the ability to handle stressful situations. There are also challenges related to irregular working hours and sometimes limited opportunities for advancement within the profession. Despite this, the work attracts many due to its meaningful content and the chance to make a difference in people's daily lives.

Tips for those wanting to become a care assistant in home care

To succeed as a care assistant in home care, it is good to have genuine compassion for others and the ability to create safety for clients. Being flexible and able to adapt to different situations is crucial, as the workday often involves unexpected challenges. Good teamwork and communication skills facilitate cooperation with colleagues and relatives. It is also important to be independent and able to make your own decisions, as many tasks are performed alone. Patience and resilience help during tight schedules and high-paced situations. Lastly, it is a great advantage to be attentive and able to see each client’s individual needs to provide the right support and care.

Key facts about Care Assistant, home care

• Salary range: 26,900–30,200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or adult education, sometimes introductory training upon employment
• Work environment: Independent work in clients’ homes, often with varying workplaces
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment and increasing demand over the next five years
• Hourly wage (average): 172 SEK/hour

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a care assistant in home care, there are opportunities to further qualify as an assistant nurse, which often results in higher salary and expanded responsibilities. Some choose to specialize in areas such as dementia care or palliative care through shorter courses. There are also chances to advance into supervisory roles such as coordinator or team leader. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, the opportunities for employment are very good, with an expected increase in demand over the next five years – mainly due to an aging population. The latest survey showed 375 job openings nationwide, confirming the strong labor market for care assistants in home care.

Frequently asked questions about Care Assistant, home care

• What does a care assistant in home care earn?
  - The average salary is 28 700 SEK/month, with a range between 26,900–30,200 SEK/month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - No, men and women have the same average salary within the profession.
• What education is required to work as a care assistant in home care?
  - High school healthcare and social care program or adult education (Komvux) is common, but introductory training can be offered upon employment.
• What is the job market like for care assistants in home care?
  - Opportunities for employment are very good, and demand is expected to increase over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Compassion, flexibility, independence, and good teamwork skills are particularly important.
• Can I work part-time as a care assistant in home care?
  - Yes, many positions are part-time, but full-time work also occurs.