Activity Assistant

We know you’re busy so this 9-11 month, part-time program is delivered fully online so you can continue to work while learning valuable skills that can enrich your career.

To apply for this program, contact the Creston Campus directly.

Why Choose Activity Assistant as a career?

• Due to our aging population, additional resources for the elderly will continue to be in demand.
• Compliment the learning you have already completed and become more of a specialist in your field.
• Help to improve the quality of life for your clients and/or elderly family members.

View Activity Assistant Course Descriptions and Learning Outcomes

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.

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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

Academic Requirements:

Certificate from a recognized educational institution in:

• Health Care Assistant
• Resident Care Attendant
• Long Term Care Aide
• Home Support, Rehabilitation Aide
• Licensed Practical Nurse
• Registered Nurse

Additional Requirements:

• Immunization Record (or copy of one from current Health employer)
• TB skin test results dated within 3 months of program start
• Consent to a BC Ministry Criminal Record Check (or copy of one from current Health employer)
• Valid First Aid certificate (with CPR C)
• FoodSafe Level I
• A Class 4 driver’s license is recommended but not required.
• Occupational Awareness and Self-Reflection Activity

Tuition and Fees:

Tuition:	$3,499.00
Total	$3,499.00

_{*These prices are for domestic students and may not be 100% accurate. However, these estimates will give you an adequate idea of tuition and fees for our programs. These prices do not include textbook costs. All prices are subject to change. Tuition fees include an alumni fee, student activity fees, and a student technology fee. In certain cases a materials and supply fee may also be included. For more information, visit: Tuition and Fees.}

Instructor Profile:

Kaitlin de Hoog

With several years of experience in Geriatric Recreation Programming, in a variety of settings, including community day programs, long-term care and dementia care, Kaitlin is passionate about recreation programming. She possesses a Bachelor of Arts degree in Recreation, Sport and Tourism from the University of Alberta. In 2017 she moved to Creston, B.C. and worked in the Recreation Department at Swan Valley Lodge. Kaitlin and her family have since relocated to central Alberta, but the Kootenays continue to be near to her heart.

In her free time, Kaitlin loves adventuring with her young family, baking, and tackling home renovation projects.