Senior Care 101
Senior Care 101:
Where to Take Courses to Learn More About Senior Care
Maybe you’ve decided to follow a career in elder care for a living.
Or maybe you’d just like to know more about how to care for your senior loved one at home?
Where do you go to learn the latest about caring for seniors?
Here are a few ideas…
1. The American Red Cross
The American Red Cross Family Caregiving Program offers programs that are designed for those who care for the elderly, ill, or disabled at home. The program covers home safety, assisting with personal care (including bathing), healthy eating, and caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
2. The National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC)
The National Association for Home Care and Hospice offers national certification for in-home care providers. The Certification for Homemaker/Home Care Aides is awarded to care providers who demonstrate competency in training, skills demonstration, and a written exam. Visit their website for more information on NAHC’s education and certification programs.
3. The National Board for Certification of Hospice & Palliative Nurses (NBCHPN)
The National Board for Certification of Hospice & Palliative Nurses offers several levels of certification, many of which require a nursing license. The Certification for Hospice and Palliative Nursing Assistants (CHPNA) does not require a nursing license, although it does require 2000 practice hours under the supervision of a registered nurse. This certification is good for four years. The CHPNA exam is offered in 50 US locations every March and September. Visit their website for costs, a candidate handbook and application.
4. Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) Affiliates/Chapters
Many Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) Affiliates/Chapters offer CEU credits at their annual conferences and through regional meetings, with high caliber assisted living specific educational offerings presented by some of the foremost experts. ALFA State affiliates and chapters also offer training courses where required and approved by the state, to meet licensure requirements for Residential Care and Assisted Living Administrators.
Know the Laws
If you’re looking to work in the senior care industry, some states may require you to have both licensing and insurance in order to provide senior care services. Please check with your local, state, and federal agencies to see what the minimum requirements are for establishing a senior care business in your area. Providing this licensing and insurance information up front will also increase your credibility with prospective employers.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, some states only require that senior care providers have on-the-job training. Other states, however, require more formal training, which may be available at local community colleges or vocational schools. The duties of senior care providers range from housekeeping to personal and medical care. Many senior care providers begin their careers by performing housekeeping duties. Then, with experience, training, and certifications, they become able to provide more personal and medical assistance.
Even the most experienced provider will benefit from education and certification. Certification will make you a more confident and credible senior care provider.
BLOG Date: Thursday, January 28, 2016
Writer: Ryan Allen