The demand for home-based care in Kenya is rising, as families seek professional support for elderly, disabled, or chronically ill loved ones. Whether you’re passionate about helping others or looking for a flexible healthcare career, becoming a home-based caregiver is both rewarding and practical. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to start a career in home-based care in Kenya, the necessary qualifications, career options, and where to get proper training.
What is Home-Based Care?
Home-based care is support given to people in their own homes instead of hospitals or clinics. It includes help with daily tasks like bathing, eating, and taking medicine. Caregivers also offer emotional support and companionship. This care is often for the elderly, people with disabilities, or those recovering from illness. It allows patients to stay comfortable in familiar surroundings while receiving the help they need.
Step 1: Get the Right Training and Certification
To begin your career in home-based care, you need proper training from a certified institution. Courses teach basic nursing, hygiene, nutrition, and first aid. You’ll also learn how to care for the elderly, the disabled, and patients with chronic conditions.
Look for schools approved by NITA or TVET. Paula Training Institute and KMTC are great options. Completing a certified caregiver course boosts your chances of getting hired both locally and abroad.
Step 2: Meet the Basic Requirements
To work in home-based care in Kenya, you need a few key qualifications. Most employers require a KCSE certificate and a certified caregiver course. Good communication skills and physical stamina are important as sometimes you may be required to move the patient.
You may also need a certificate of good conduct and basic first aid training. Some roles may ask for basic computer literacy to help with reporting or scheduling tasks.
Step 3: Explore Job Opportunities in Home-Based Care
Once certified, you can find home-based care jobs in private homes, through caregiving agencies, or community programs. Many families hire caregivers directly to support elderly or sick relatives at home. Agencies connect you with clients and may offer better job security. NGOs also employ caregivers to serve in rural or low-income areas.
You can also work independently by offering freelance care services. Platforms like BrighterMonday, local WhatsApp groups, and staffing agencies regularly post caregiver job listings in Kenya. Start by applying locally while building your experience and reputation.
Step 4: Consider Freelancing or Working Abroad
Freelancing allows you to offer homecare services independently and set your own rates. You can work with multiple clients and manage your own schedule. Many caregivers in Kenya also explore job opportunities abroad in countries like Canada, the UK, and the Gulf region. These jobs offer higher pay and better working conditions. However, you’ll need proper documentation, language skills, and sometimes additional certification.
Use licensed recruitment agencies and verify job offers to avoid scams. Starting locally builds experience that makes you more competitive for international roles.
Why Choose a Career in Home-Based Care?
A career in home-based care is rewarding, flexible, and in high demand. You get to make a real difference in people’s lives by offering personalized support. It’s ideal for compassionate individuals who enjoy working one-on-one with clients. The work can be done full-time or part-time, giving you control over your schedule.
As healthcare needs grow in Kenya, skilled caregivers are becoming more essential than ever. Plus, the experience can open doors to jobs abroad or further healthcare training.
Conclusion: Take the First Step Today
Starting a career in home-based care in Kenya is more accessible than ever. With the right training, certification, and compassion, you can build a fulfilling profession helping others right in their homes.
Interested in becoming a certified homecare provider? Enroll today at Paula Training Institute and get the skills you need to succeed in Kenya’s growing home-based care industry.