What does a care assistant do? – Tasks and work environment
A care assistant primarily works to support individuals who need help in daily life, often elderly or people with disabilities. Tasks vary but typically include personal care, assistance with hygiene, dressing, meals, and light cleaning and shopping. Care assistants are active in elderly care, home care, special housing, or disability support. The work environment involves close contact with people and requires attentiveness, patience, and the ability to handle stressful situations. The work may involve day, evening, and weekend shifts, and workload varies depending on the organization and staffing.
Salary development over time
The care assistant profession has experienced steady salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK per month, which increased to 27 900 SEK in 2023 and reached 28 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.5% over three years, slightly above inflation for the same period. This development reflects increasing demand for care assistants, driven by an aging population and a growing need for care services nationwide. The salary increase can also be attributed to improved working conditions and union negotiations prioritizing the profession. Gender differences have practically disappeared, and both men and women have equal pay in the profession.
Many care assistants quickly take on significant responsibility and become a vital source of security for both clients and relatives. It is a profession where social skills often outweigh formal education, and small efforts can greatly impact people's quality of life.
Care 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 (privately employed, both men and women)
- Hourly wage: 172 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
- Gender pay gap: None – women and men earn equally in the profession
- Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on employer and region, but the average remains around 28 700 SEK/month
Education and qualifications
To work as a care assistant, usually no formal university education is required, but employers prefer applicants to have completed high school care and social work programs or equivalent adult education. Practical experience in care or working with people is advantageous. Many employers also offer internal introductory programs and mentoring for new staff. Proficiency in Swedish and a genuine interest in working with people are important prerequisites. The profession suits both beginners and those looking to switch to the care sector.
- High school education: Care and social work program, 3 years
- Adult education: Komvux, often 1–2 years
- Introductory training: Internal training provided by the employer
- Prerequisites: Good Swedish skills and interest in care
- Internship: Common within education and employment
Common benefits and compensations
Care assistants are often offered benefits such as shift allowances for evening, night, and weekend work, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for training or further development. Employment may also include occupational pension and insurance through collective agreements.
Competition and challenges
Demand for care assistants is high and expected to increase in the coming years, especially due to an aging population. At the same time, the profession faces challenges such as high workload, risk of stress, and sometimes difficult schedules with irregular hours. Recruitment difficulties occur, particularly in smaller municipalities and certain regions, which can put additional pressure on existing staff. Many work part-time, which may be due to personal preferences or employer scheduling. To meet future needs, improved working conditions and increased attractiveness of the profession are required.
Tips for those wanting to become a care assistant
To succeed as a care assistant, it is good to have a genuine interest in helping others and to be empathetic when meeting clients and relatives. Flexibility makes it easier when tasks and schedules vary, and good teamwork skills facilitate working in teams. Communication skills are important both for documentation and for creating trust with care recipients, while stress tolerance helps in high-paced and unexpected situations. Initiative is appreciated by employers, especially in identifying and solving everyday problems. Engagement and a positive attitude contribute to a better work environment for colleagues and those receiving support.
Key facts about Care Assistants
- Education level: High school or adult education recommended
- Work environment: Care services within home care, elderly care, or disability support
- Common work form: Part-time or shift work
- Demand: Very high, especially due to an aging population
- Available jobs: 375 advertised positions nationwide
Career paths and future prospects
After a few years of experience as a care assistant, there are opportunities to further train as a licensed practical nurse or specialize in areas such as dementia care or psychiatry. Some advance to leadership roles such as coordinator or unit manager, while others deepen their pedagogical work within care. The Employment Service’s forecast indicates very good job prospects within the profession for the next five years. Demand is expected to grow further, partly due to demographic changes and large pension departures in the care sector. Those wishing to advance in healthcare and social work have strong prospects, especially with further education or specialization.
Common questions about Care Assistants
- What does a care assistant earn?
- The average salary is 28 700 SEK per month, and both men and women have the same pay level.
- What education is required to become a care assistant?
- High school care and social work programs or adult education are recommended, but some employers also offer internal training.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- No, women and men earn equally in the profession of care assistant.
- What are the future prospects for care assistants?
- Projections show very good job opportunities, with increasing demand in the coming years.
- What tasks does a care assistant perform?
- Tasks include personal care, assistance with daily activities, and social support for clients.
- Can you work part-time as a care assistant?
- Yes, many work part-time, and schedules can vary.
- Are there opportunities for further education?
- Yes, it is common to further train as a licensed practical nurse or specialize in various areas.
