Home care providers could see more training options

Home care workers could count training in age-related hearing loss toward their annual training requirements under HF952, which was passed by the House in a 129-0 vote Thursday.

Under current law, all staff performing direct home care services must undergo annual training that can address a range of topics, including maltreatment reporting, the home care bill of rights and infection control techniques.

HF952, sponsored by Rep. Debra Kiel (R-Crookston), would have direct care providers learn about age-related hearing loss, the signs, associated risks, and technology and communication strategies that can be used to address the problems.

The bill would also require the training for staff at assisted living facilities.

“What this bill intends to do is to make sure that staff in a health facility … help [elderly people with hearing loss] to be able to communicate their wishes and desires,” Kiel said. “If we don’t help with that … many people who lose their hearing also become isolated.”

The bill now heads to the Senate, where it is sponsored by Sen. Karin Housley (R-St. Marys Point).