Aides often visit four or five clients on the same day. Surroundings differ from case to case. Some homes are neat and pleasant, while others are untidy or depressing. Home health aides generally work on their own, with periodic visits by their supervisor. They receive detailed instructions explaining when to visit clients and what services to perform.
Many aides work part time, and weekend hours are common.
Most aides are responsible for getting to the client's home. They are particularly susceptible to injuries resulting from all types of over-exertion when assisting patients, and falls inside and outside their homes. Mechanical lifting devices that are available in institutional settings are seldom available in patients' homes. They should be responsible, compassionate, emotionally stable and cheerful. Aides should also be tactful, honest and discreet because they work in private homes.