All states have requirements for home health aides to protect their vulnerable clients. Texas is no exception, although it has lighter rules than some. Texas has no registry, certification, or state exam, but does have training requirements.
If you are looking for long-term care services, and want to know your options Call 2-1-1, the hotline service for people looking to get help and find the services they need. Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) can help you find and apply for long-term care programs for seniors and people with disabilities.
All personal care homes in Texas, which provide services of a personal care nature to four or more persons unrelated to the owner, must be licensed under the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) licensure requirements.
In Texas, home health aides do not necessarily need to be certified. However, if they are employed by an agency that receives Medicare or Medicaid, they must get formal training and pass a competency exam or state certification program.
To care for Medicare or Medicaid clients, all home health aides in Texas must complete training ing to federal regulations. Initial Training: A minimum of 75 hours, including 16 clinical hours. Certification: Must pass an exam to become a home health aide at a certified home health agency.
Emphasis on Role: “Caregiver” and “carer” emphasize the act of giving care, with a focus on the practical and emotional work involved. “Caretaker” suggests a more functional or managerial role, often with a broader focus on property or task management.
Caregivers providing care to “high-need” older adults—those who have at least two self-care needs or dementia—are more likely to help with a wide variety of tasks, including helping with chores, helping the older adult get around the house, keeping track of medications, and making medical appointments.
A caregiver must: (1) Be at least 18 years of age; (2) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and upon request verify completion of any high school equivalency program with original documentation to us. (3) Meet the requirements in Subchapter F of Chapter 745 of this title (relating to Background Checks);
Do caregivers need to be licensed in Texas? Caregivers in Texas are not required by law to be licensed, but many agencies and private employers may prefer caregivers who have undergone training or certification programs, such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Home Health Aide (HHA) certifications.