My parents use non-certified aides at their independent living facility in New York state. They prefer them to agency-provided aides because they are allowed to administer medication. (point being I'm not sure you need any kind of certification to begin assisting people)

If you just want to get started helping people, you could sign up with care.com. We used that to find helpers when my parents were still in their home.

My mother just barely speaks English and she got the cert. It's not hard to pass.

OP, think first about your connections. Probably there is an elder you can help, and be hired, without the certification. I mean, don't let the process of certification slow you down. Maybe there is a certification online. Do you know anyone presently in a retirement community? Visit. Be present. Socially get to know the residents. Mention that you are available.

My elderly parents -first- just wanted someone they knew. Wanted that person 2x a week to pick-up things from the store they needed. Then, it was taking them to appointments. Then we were also paying for them to just sit and visit, keeping them company. Because they now had a close relationship. A lot will be non medical.

Anonymous wrote:Is it easy to get a Personal Care Assistant Certification in Virginia? I am retired and don't have a lot to do, and want to help people a bit older than me that need the help.

No idea. You also may want to get bonded and insured whatever that means. I know we were told to look for that. Please let us know once you do these things...where you advertise your services. There is so much need for this. I give good tips for anyone who connects well with my mom, but she's also very difficult so might not be your cup of tea .

Is it easy to get a Personal Care Assistant Certification in Virginia? I am retired and don't have a lot to do, and want to help people a bit older than me that need the help.