Every year, National Nurses Day on May 6 marks the start of National Nurses Week, a time dedicated to celebrating the dedication, compassion, and expertise of nurses across the country. While much of the public’s attention naturally focuses on nurses in hospitals and clinics, a growing and equally vital segment of the profession works beyond the bedside.

This National Nurses Day, it’s time to spotlight the unique contributions of home health nurses and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in home care and other long-term care settings.

The Expanding Role of Nurses in Home Care

Nurses: The Heart of Home Health

Home health nurses and CNAs provide essential medical and supportive care for patients in the comfort of their own homes or in different forms of assisted living. Their work ranges from administering medications and wound care to offering companionship and helping with daily activities. For patients recovering from surgery, managing chronic illnesses, or aging in place, home health nurses are a lifeline—delivering not just clinical expertise, but also dignity and independence.

See here for more on the differences between home health and home care.

A Growing Need

The demand for home-based care is on the rise. As the population ages and more people opt for care at home rather than in institutional settings, the role of care at home becomes increasingly critical. These professionals help reduce hospital readmissions, support family caregivers, and enable patients to remain in familiar surroundings, which is often linked to better health outcomes and higher satisfaction.

The Unique Challenges and Rewards of Home Care

Autonomy and Adaptability

Home care professionals often work independently, making critical decisions without the immediate backup of a hospital team. This requires not only clinical skill, but also adaptability, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities. Every home environment is different, and every patient has unique needs.

Building Trust and Relationships

Unlike in hospitals, where patient stays are often brief, home care nurses and CNAs may work with the same individuals for months or even years. They become trusted confidants and advocates, forging deep connections that are central to holistic, patient-centered care.

Facing Isolation and Burnout

Despite its rewards, home care nursing can be isolating. Without the camaraderie of a hospital unit, nurses may feel disconnected or unsupported. Burnout is a real risk, especially when workloads are heavy or resources are limited. Addressing these challenges requires intentional support, empowerment, and recognition from employers and the broader healthcare system.

Recognizing and Empowering Nurses in Long-Term Care

1. Center Their Voices in Care and Operations

In both skilled nursing and home care, CNAs and nurses have deep, firsthand insight into patient needs. Yet, their voices are too often left out of care planning and operational decision-making. Including them as key contributors—not just executors—leads to more responsive care and a more respected, motivated workforce.

2. Make Career Growth a Reality, Not a Promise

Career ladders and continuing education opportunities are essential in retaining talent and building excellence. From mentorship programs to financial support for further licensing, investing in growth shows caregivers that they’re not just filling a shift—they’re building a career.

3. Address Burnout Through Flexibility and Staffing Support

Burnout isn’t inevitable; it’s preventable. In skilled nursing, that means safe staffing ratios and fair scheduling. In home care, it means matching caregivers with clients thoughtfully and offering flexibility to balance work and life. Across the board, we need systems that protect the well-being of those who care for others.

4. Cultivate Recognition and Connection

Caregiving—especially in home-based roles—can be isolating. Facilities and home care organizations alike should create opportunities for peer connection, celebrate achievements, and foster a sense of community. Recognition isn’t just a morale booster—it’s a retention strategy.

This Nurses Week, Here's How to Help…

• Say Thank You—And Mean It: Personal gratitude is powerful.

• Advocate for Policy Change: Support legislation that ensures fair pay, adequate staffing, and workforce development.

• Use Your Platform: Share stories of CNAs and nurses in your network to amplify their vital role in healthcare.

Conclusion

Nurses and CNAs are the quiet force behind so much of our healthcare system—especially in long-term care settings. This National Nurses Day, let’s move beyond celebration and toward real change. Supporting the professionals in home care and skilled nursing isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential for the future of care.

Clara: A Model for Supporting Families and Caregivers

Clara was founded to better meet the needs of families seeking in-home care by seamlessly connecting them with experienced, independent caregivers—and to do so in a way that uplifts care providers. Through its platform, families can hire from a network of 1,000+ qualified local caregivers while Clara manages payroll, taxes, and insurance to ensure both household employers and caregivers are legally protected.

This approach not only makes high-quality home care more affordable and accessible for families—it also ensures caregivers earn more for their work. On average, Clara caregivers take home 20–30% higher wages compared to traditional agency models. It’s a win-win: families get flexible, consistent care, and caregivers receive the respect and compensation they deserve.

Interested in learning more about how Clara can help you? Give us a call today.