Home Caregiver María: 'We are not cleaners or errand runners' – what tasks are included and which are not

María, a home care assistant in Spain, has voiced frustration over the common misconception that her job entails unlimited domestic work. She emphasized that her role is not that of a cleaner or a general errand runner, pushing back against the idea that home care services are a catch-all for any household task.

Her clarification aims to define the essential duties of a home care professional. These roles are vital for supporting thousands of families who rely on this assistance. The dispute underscores the need for a clearer understanding of what home care truly involves, differentiating it from general domestic labor.

This essential service supports individuals in their homes, often enabling them to maintain independence. However, the boundaries of this support can become blurred, leading to expectations that extend beyond the scope of professional caregiving. María's stance brings attention to the professionalization of this field and the importance of respecting the defined responsibilities of caregivers.

“

We are not cleaners or errand runners.