Encompassing more than a million caregivers across its 4,500 member agencies, HCAOA represents the best of the best in home care — and we recognize their excellence through the Caregiver of the Year Award. Each year, members nominate hundreds of standout direct-care workers, and HCAOA selects five finalists and one award winner.

2026 Nomination Deadline: July 15

Who's Eligible?

Members may nominate any non-licensed, direct care worker or frontline caregiver who goes above and beyond in providing support to individuals in their homes.

Licensed caregivers such as RNs, LPNs, OTs, PTs, STs are not eligible. Only HCAOA members may nominate caregivers.

How It Works

Nominees are categorized into five geographic regions. HCAOA selects one finalist per region.
All five finalists receive an all-expenses paid trip to the National Home Care Conference.
The overall winner, announced at the conference, receives a $2,500 cash prize.