Individuals must meet certain criteria to qualify for the PCA program. PCAs can provide help for:
- Activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, grooming, bathing, transfers, mobility, positioning and toileting
- Complex health related tasks such as tube feeding or interventions for seizures
- Observation and redirection of some behaviors to help a person remain safe in their environment
- Instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) such as
accompany to medical appointments or out into the community, assist
paying bills, complete household tasks related to the ADL needs, plan
and prepare meals and shop for food and clothing and other essential
items.
Activity Levels
An individual must
need help with at least 2 activities of daily living (ADLs) to qualify
for the other areas of the PCA Program.
An individual who needs help with only 1 ADL or has a behavior issue,
such as hurting themselves or others, may qualify for 30 minutes of PCA
services a day, but will not qualify for any additional time.
Licensing
A PCA is an individual employed by a personal care assistance agency
licensed through the Department of Human Services (DHS). They must be
age 18 or older, passed a criminal background study, be enrolled as a
PCA with DHS, completed training and orientation requirements and be
under the supervision of a qualified professional.