Now accepting new private pay and MaineCare/Medicaid clients!
Schedule a free consultationAgencies that place caregivers in private homes for non-medical personal care, help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and mobility, along with household tasks, are licensed in Maine as Personal Care Agencies. Licensing is handled by the Division of Licensing and Certification (DLC), part of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, under the Personal Care Agency Licensing Rule and Maine law. Silver Linings Agency is licensed by the State of Maine as a Personal Care Agency.
For the state's own description of what's required, see DHHS's Personal Care Agencies licensing page.
A Personal Support Specialist is an entry-level direct care worker credential recognized by Maine DHHS. Earning it requires completing a state-approved training curriculum of at least 50 hours, covering classroom instruction, hands-on demonstration, and a competency-based exam, then passing that exam. PSS-trained caregivers are prepared to help with Activities of Daily Living (things like bathing, dressing, and mobility) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (things like meal preparation, light housekeeping, and errands).
A Certified Nursing Assistant credential requires more extensive training than a PSS: a state-approved program of at least 130 hours combining classroom instruction, skills lab practice, and supervised clinical work, followed by a two-part competency test covering both knowledge and hands-on skills. CNAs are trained to work under nursing supervision and typically bring a broader base of hands-on care experience.
Both PSS and CNA credentials require a criminal background check, and both are tracked on Maine's official Registry of Certified Nursing Assistants and Direct Care Workers. Being listed as active on that registry is what allows someone to legally work in these roles in Maine, and it's a status that can be checked, not just claimed.
We're glad to talk through our caregivers' qualifications and how we match them to a family's specific needs. Take a look at our home care services, or schedule a free in-home consultation to learn more.