This Continuing Education certificate program is delivered on-line plus practicum/clinical segments over a 9-11 month period.
Course Listings and Time Frames:
PVSS-211 – Framework for Activity Assistant Role – 11 weeks
PVSS-212 – Activity for Well-Being – 13 weeks
PVSS-213 – Activity Assistant Practicum 1 – 30 hours – 2 weeks concurrent with PCSS-212
PVSS-214 – Programming Activities for Clients with Dementia – 11 weeks
PVSS-215 – Activity Assistant Practicum 2 – 9 weeks
Practicums:
Practicums 213 and 215 must be completed at two different sites. Example: Long Term Care, Extended Care, Adult Day Program, Acute, Home or Community Care.
For students already working as Activity Assistants, AAP consideration may be given on an individual basis and with approval of instructor and student’s workplace supervisor, to gain an acceptable variety of experience during their work schedule.
Course Descriptions:
PVSS 211 – Framework for the Activity Assistant Role
This course assists students in understanding their role as an Activity Assistant. Building on previous knowledge, the students are introduced to the concept of activity and how it influences and is influenced by the components for health, age, interests, values and environment.
- Delivery Method: Online
- Length: 110 hours
PVSS 212 – Activity for Well Being
This course builds on PVSS-211 to assist students to gain knowledge and skills that will allow them to function effectively in the Activity Assistant role. The course emphasizes a client-centered approach and effective communication skills in planning and implementing activities that promote optimal well-being of clients, both individually and in groups. The process of providing activities is examined as it relates to clients, families, volunteers and the interdisciplinary healthcare team.
- Delivery Method: Online
- Length: 130 hours
PVSS 213 – Practicum 1
This course provides the student with an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained from Activity Assistant theory courses while working with older adults, individually and in groups.
- Delivery Method: Online
- Length: 30 hours – 2 weeks concurrent with PVSS-212
PVSS 214 – Programming Activities for Clients with Dementia
This course builds on PVSS 211, 212 and 213. Students will enhance their knowledge of dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease. This course provides ideas and strategies for activity involvement with the cognitively impaired client. A brief overview of depression and delirium and suitable activities is provided.
- Delivery Method: Online
- Length: 110 hours
PVSS 215 – Practicum 2
Practicum 2 is 90 hours following successful completion of PVSS-211, 212, 213 and 214. This practicum, building on PVSS-213, provides the student with the opportunity to integrate the theory and skills learned during the Activity Assistant Program. This course consists of 90 hours of supervised practice in a select continuing care facility, adult day program, and rehabilitation unit or retirement residence. The focus is on the use of a creative problem-solving process in the planning and implementation of activities that maintain or enhance client well-being.
- Delivery Method: Online
- Length: 90 hours following completion of all courses