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Home Health Aide Schools Near Me in Chicago

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Home Health Aide

Are you interested in a healthcare career that makes a real difference? Home health aides (HHAs) provide vital support to seniors, people with disabilities, and those recovering at home. Chicago residents can launch this rewarding career by completing state-approved training and passing a competency evaluation.

Key Points

  • HHAs assist with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, meal prep, light housekeeping, and medication reminders.
  • Illinois requires 120 hours of initial training (classroom + clinical) and a competency evaluation.
  • HHAs earn an average of $37,010 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
  • HHA roles are projected to grow 21% from 2023 to 2033, according to BLS.
  • Costs in Chicago average $1,200 for a 5-week training program and vary by provider.

What is a Home Health Aide?

A Home Health Aide (HHA) is a certified professional who helps clients with personal care and daily tasks in their homes. HHAs work under supervision to:

  • Monitor vital signs
  • Assist with mobility and transfers
  • Provide personal hygiene support
  • Light housekeeping and meal preparation
  • Offer companionship and medication reminders

Learn more: Our guide on the  functions of Home Health Aides explains their daily responsibilities.

Training Requirements in Illinois

To become a Home Health Aide, candidates must:

  • Complete 120 hours of training that covers classroom instruction and hands‑on practice. This coursework is at the level required for certified nursing assistants (CNAs).
  • Undergo a competency check administered by a registered nurse.
  • Finish 8–12 hours of continuing education each year.
  • Pass a state‑approved written and skills exam to demonstrate competence.
  • Be listed on the IDPH Health Care Worker Registry. The registry lists approved CNA training programs and employers across Illinois.

Illinois law also mandates annual sexual‑harassment prevention training and dementia‑specific coursework. Check the IDPH registry for approved programs and employer requirements.

What to Look for in a Class

When choosing a Home Health Aide class in Chicago, you should consider the following factors:

  • Accreditation: State-approved by Illinois Department of Public Health.
  • Curriculum: Anatomy/physiology, medical terminology, patient care techniques, CPR, first aid.
  • Clinical experience: Minimum 40 hours in a real-world setting.
  • Cost & schedule: Compare tuition, fees, payment plans, and program length.
  • Support services: Job placement assistance, financial aid, flexible class times.

What to Expect From the Day-To-Day Class

Home Health Aide classes blend classroom instruction with hands-on training. In the classroom, you’ll cover healthcare theory, while practical sessions provide real-world patient care experience. Topics usually include:

  • Basic anatomy and physiology
  • Patient rights and ethics
  • Communication skills
  • Personal care techniques
  • Basic first aid and CPR

Become a Certified Home Health Aide

To start, you must be 18 or older with a high school diploma or GED, plus pass any medical exam and background check. Then, enroll in a state-approved course with at least 120 hours of training and required clinical practice. After finishing, pass the state’s written and practical exams within two years, then register with the Illinois Department of Public Health to be listed on the Health Care Worker Registry.

Finding Related Jobs

As a certified Home Health Aide, you can work in home health agencies, hospices, assisted living facilities, or private homes. Many employers actively hire HHAs to meet growing demand. You can explore openings on job boards, local healthcare listings, and resources like MyNextMove, which provides details on job outlook, skills, and opportunities.

Further Classes After Becoming an HHA

Once you've become a Home Health Aide, you may consider advancing your career by pursuing further education. Possible options include becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or even a Registered Nurse (RN).

More on Home Health Aide Classes in Chicago

If you’re planning to start your HHA career in Chicago, here’s what you should know about program options, costs, and job prospects:

  • Local Programs & Length: Most Chicago-area HHA programs last about five weeks. Some accelerated classes can be completed in four weeks with perfect attendance, while others extend longer to accommodate clinical hours.
  • Cost & Expenses: Tuition averages around $1,200, which may include registration and lab fees. Additional costs often cover uniforms, textbooks, CPR training, the state exam, and required background checks and medical exams. Illinois also requires a TB test.
  • Financial Aid: Many community colleges and training centers offer scholarships or payment plans. You can also explore government funding options for education to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
  • Job Outlook: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Home Health Aide jobs are expected to grow 21% from 2023 to 2033—adding about 718,900 jobs. Most positions are in individual and family services, home-health agencies, and residential care facilities, with strong demand in Chicago driven by the aging population and preference for in-home care.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a home health aide lets you make a direct difference in people’s lives while entering a field with strong job growth. Illinois requires substantial training, but many Chicago programs offer flexible schedules and support services. Use Dreambound to compare nearby classes, check tuition and see which programs offer financial aid. With the right training you’ll be ready to support clients at home and start a rewarding career in healthcare.

If you’re in another location or planning a move, explore our other city-specific guides:

Looking into other careers? Dreambound has clear, helpful guides to help you choose the right path: