New program helps caregivers strengthen skills and improve care for loved ones

Earlier this month, the Center for Caregiver Advancement (CCA) announced its newly expanded program for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregivers in Los Angeles County. Eligible caregivers can enroll now through June 2026 to learn new skills and techniques that enhance the quality of care they provide for their loved ones. 

Through a variety of courses, participants will also have the opportunity to explore career advancement options, such as becoming a back-up attendant or a certified nursing assistant, and may choose to take part in a research study focused on care workers and care recipients.

The Caregiving Essentials course will also be available in English, Armenian, Cantonese, Korean, Mandarin and Spanish. Eligible participants may receive payment for their hours in class. 

“Caregiving is skilled work,” says CCA CEO Corinne Eldridge. “Providing access to training helps IHSS caregivers to deliver higher quality care and to stay and advance in their profession, which California needs more than ever as it confronts growing demand for long-term care and a shrinking workforce.”

To reach more than 240,000 IHSS workers across Los Angeles County, CCA is collaborating with long-time partners that include, L.A. Care Health Plan and the Personal Assistance Services Council (PASC) in L.A., California’s largest public authority helping low-income older adults and people with disabilities receive care at home for safer, independent living.

The program will also expand on a first-ever Randomized Control Trial (RCT) about the impact of CCA's caregiver training for L.A. County IHSS workers. Findings from this study will provide crucial insights to inform policy reforms, support wage advocacy and promote sustainable investment in California’s home care system.

The IHSS program helps over 285,000 low-income seniors and people with disabilities across the county. Yet, the workforce that powers this program remains the county’s largest low-wage sector. 

IHSS caregivers, many of whom are women of color, continue to provide essential services without a new contract since Jan. 2025, while surviving on wages that leave the majority in poverty. Over 87% of providers report working multiple jobs to make ends meet and 64% rely on public assistance just to put food on the table.

PASC Executive Director Luis Bravo highlighted a core belief in improving quality of life for all noting, “By fostering strong partnerships, we can enhance IHSS and work toward shared objectives. Together, we thrive by empowering one another through essential caregiver training.”