How to Become a Certified Home Health Aide (HHA) in New York
Fordham Institute Inc. • May 20, 2025
If you’re looking for a fast, reliable way to start a career in healthcare, becoming a Home Health Aide (HHA) is one of the best paths to take. Home Health Aides are in high demand across New York—and with the right training, you can become certified and job-ready in just a few weeks.
At Fordham Institute Inc., we specialize in helping students earn their HHA certification quickly and confidently. Whether you’re starting from scratch or switching careers, here’s everything you need to know about how to become an HHA in New York—and why it’s a powerful career choice.
What Is a Home Health Aide (HHA)?
Home Health Aides provide essential personal care and daily living support to individuals in their homes. Duties may include helping clients bathe, dress, eat, move around safely, and manage their medication routines. HHAs often work with elderly patients, people with disabilities, or those recovering from illness or surgery.
Why Become an HHA?
- Quick Training – Many HHA programs, like ours at Fordham Institute Inc., can be completed in 3 weeks or 7 weekends.
- High Job Demand – With an aging population, HHAs are needed across NYC and beyond.
- Flexible Work Settings – Work in private homes, hospice care, or home care agencies.
- Meaningful Work – You’ll make a real difference in someone’s life every day.
How to Get HHA Certified in New York
- Enroll in a NYS-Approved HHA Training Program
Fordham Institute Inc. offers state-approved HHA training that meets all required standards. - Complete the Training Hours
Students must complete 84 hours of classroom and hands-on training. - Pass the Final Competency Evaluation
After completing training, you’ll take a competency exam to show your skills and knowledge. - Get Hired!
Once certified, you can apply to home care agencies, hospitals, and other facilities.
Why Choose Fordham Institute Inc. for Your HHA Training?
- ๐ Weekend & Day Classes Available – Choose a schedule that works for you.
- ๐ Convenient NYC Location – Easy to access for Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and beyond.
- ๐ผ Job Placement Assistance – We help connect you with agencies hiring HHAs right away.
- ๐งก Supportive Instructors – Our team is committed to your success from day one.
Ready to Start Your HHA Career?
Classes are filling up quickly, and we’re now enrolling for upcoming weekday and weekend sessions. If you’re ready to start a rewarding career as a Home Health Aide in New York, don’t wait!
๐ Call us today at (718) 364-7251 or visit www.FordhamInstitute.com to learn more and register.
Becoming an HHA is your first step toward a brighter future. Let’s get started.
Whether you’re a Home Health Aide (HHA) or a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), your workdays can be physically demanding, mentally engaging, and emotionally intense. Long shifts are part of the job—but feeling drained doesn’t have to be. At Fordham Institute Inc., we know that keeping your energy up is essential, not only for your own well-being but also for the quality of care you provide. Here are practical tips to help you power through long days without hitting burnout. 1. Start with a Strong Foundation Energy starts before your shift begins. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating a balanced breakfast, and hydrating in the morning. Skipping these basics is like starting the day on an empty tank. 2. Keep Healthy Snacks Handy Avoid the crash that comes from sugary or processed snacks. Instead, pack energy-boosting options like: Almonds or mixed nuts Fresh fruit Whole grain crackers with cheese Hummus with carrot sticks Small, balanced snacks every 3–4 hours can help you stay alert without the sugar slump. 3. Stay Hydrated All Day Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Keep a reusable water bottle nearby and sip throughout your shift. Adding lemon or cucumber can make it more refreshing. 4. Move and Stretch Regularly If your job keeps you on your feet, find moments to stretch your back, legs, and shoulders. If you’re seated for long periods, stand up and move around for a minute or two every hour. These small breaks keep your blood flowing and your muscles from stiffening. 5. Take Mindful Breaks Even short mental resets can make a big difference. When you have a moment, step outside for fresh air, practice a deep breathing exercise, or simply sit quietly to regroup. 6. Protect Your Emotional Energy Caregiving can be emotionally demanding. Keep a healthy boundary between your work and personal life. After a challenging moment, remind yourself you are doing your best and it’s okay to take time to recharge. 7. Wind Down the Right Way After a long shift, allow yourself a transition period before jumping into home responsibilities. Light stretching, a shower, or calming music can help you recover and prepare for the next day. ๏ปฟ Your Energy Is Part of Your Care When you take care of your energy, you’re also taking care of your patients and clients. It’s not just about getting through the day—it’s about feeling strong and capable throughout it. ๐ Interested in joining our HHA or CNA training programs? Call 718-480-1804
In healthcare, the way you start your day can shape everything that follows. For Home Health Aides (HHAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), mornings aren’t just about getting ready—they’re about preparing your mind, body, and energy for the important work ahead. At Fordham Institute Inc., we believe that a strong start leads to a stronger day. Here are a few morning habits that can help caregivers feel focused, energized, and ready to give their best. 1. Wake Up with Purpose Instead of rushing out of bed, take a moment to set your intention for the day. Ask yourself: “What kind of caregiver do I want to be today?” A few deep breaths or a short affirmation—like “I am prepared, capable, and compassionate”—can set a positive tone. 2. Fuel Your Body Right Skipping breakfast can leave you feeling tired and distracted. Choose something quick but nourishing, like: Whole grain toast with peanut butter Oatmeal with fruit Yogurt with nuts or seeds Balanced meals early in the day help maintain energy levels for the work ahead. 3. Move Your Body Even 5–10 minutes of light stretching or walking in place can improve circulation, loosen stiff muscles, and boost alertness. For caregivers who spend long hours on their feet, this small step can make a big difference in how the body feels by the end of the shift. 4. Organize Your Day Check your schedule, gather your essentials, and make sure your work bag is packed. Having everything ready reduces stress and helps you feel in control before your day even begins. 5. Hydrate Early Start your day with a glass of water. Proper hydration supports focus, mood, and energy—three things every caregiver needs. 6. Take a Moment for Yourself Before heading out, do something small that brings you joy—listening to your favorite song, stepping outside for fresh air, or reading a quick inspirational quote. It’s a reminder that your well-being matters, too. Your Morning Shapes Your Mindset A solid morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is consistency. By taking care of yourself first thing in the morning, you’ll be more prepared—physically and mentally—to take care of others. ๐ Ready to start your career in healthcare? Call 718-480-1804
When starting your journey as a Home Health Aide (HHA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), it’s easy to focus on the big picture—finishing the program, passing the exam, and starting your first job. But here’s a secret: it’s the small wins along the way that really shape your success. At Fordham Institute Inc., we remind our students that every step forward counts, even if it feels small. Building skills, confidence, and good habits takes time—and celebrating those moments makes the journey less stressful and more rewarding. Why Small Wins Matter They build momentum – Each success boosts your confidence to tackle the next challenge. They keep you motivated – Seeing progress, even in small ways, helps you stay committed. They reduce burnout – Celebrating progress reminds you that you are moving forward. They create lasting habits – Consistency in small steps builds the foundation for bigger achievements. Examples of Small Wins in Training Understanding a skill you once struggled with Finishing your homework early Getting positive feedback from an instructor Showing up to class on time for a whole week Mastering a new term or concept without looking at your notes These wins may seem small in the moment—but they add up to your overall success. How to Recognize and Celebrate Your Wins Keep a Progress Journal – Write down one thing you achieved each day. Share with a Friend or Classmate – Talking about your progress can make it feel more real. Treat Yourself – A favorite snack, a relaxing activity, or a bit of extra rest can be a reward. Look Back Often – Remember where you started, and see how far you’ve come. Progress Over Perfection In healthcare training—and in life—perfection is impossible. What matters most is showing up, learning, and improving over time. The best HHAs and CNAs aren’t perfect—they’re consistent, compassionate, and committed. ๏ปฟ Your Journey Is Worth Celebrating Whether you’ve taken one step or a hundred, you are building a future filled with purpose and opportunity. At Fordham Institute Inc., we’re here to help you grow, one win at a time. ๐ Ready to take the first step toward a rewarding career? Call 718-480-1804 Small wins lead to big changes—and your journey starts with just one.