FAQs

FAQs

 

Who are these programs for?

These programs are for anyone who wishes to know more about caring for an older adult in the home.  This includes indiviudals who wish to work with older adults, family members, volunteers, or friends.  An older adult is generally someone aged 60 years of age or older.

What information do these programs contain?

Certified programs contain information on a variety of topics including communication, safety, activities, skin care, assistance with bathing, dressing, toileting transferring and walking.  Each level of training builds on the previous level and is designed to provide the learner with knowledge and skills needed to care for indiviuduals who require varying levels of care in their homes.

Family Caregiver Workshops are designed to introduce non-paid caregivers to basic caregiving skills.  They are intended for indiviudals with little if any medical training.  Information contained in the Family Caregiver Workshops covers a variety of topics related to daily caregiving of an older adult such as hygiene, nutrition, skin care, and toileting.

Are these classes helpful for someone caring for a person with physical disabilities?

Yes, the information in these programs is in large part basic nursing care that would be applicable for any person needing assitance with activities of daily living.  A person caring for a young adult or child with speical needs is likely to require additional information relevant to their specific condition; however, the information on basic caregiving, such as skin care, pressure relief, hygiene would all be likely be applicable to any caregiving situation.

How much are the classes?

The cost classes vary depending on whether they are certified or family courses.  It is best to contact the training center in your area to talk to someone about tuition.

How long are the classes?
Family Caregiver Workshops are short just two 4-hour classes.  Certified Home Caregiver classes range from 25 hours to 50 hours in length.  Click here to view a typical class calendar.

How do I schedule a Family Caregiver Workshop for my organization?
Family caregiver workshops can be scheduled by calling or emailing the training center

Do you offer evening or weekend classes? 
Yes, If there are enough interested students the Elder Pal course can be scheduled for weekends classes

Can I get help paying for classes? 
Yes, scholarships for training classes may be available.  Contact the center to inquire.

Are there other similar programs in the United States?
A national search for similar training programs was conducted in 2007.  Results of the search found a total of three formal curricula that focused on training individuals to care for older adults in the home.  The Schmieding curriculum was the only formal, comprehensive curriculum that provided progressive levels of training enabling student the option to advance their education from the level of companion to certified nurse aide according to their personal goals.

How does the Schmieding Home Caregiver Training compare to other programs?
In Arkansas, the program is more comprehensive by meeting the federal training requirements for both home health care and nursing home care.  It also incorporates the state training requirements for personal care assistant.

What evidence is there that this training program is successful?
The Schmieding Center collects evaluation data at the end of each course and reviews the pass rates on the state CNA exam.  Since 1999, more than 850 people have graduated from Elder Pal and more than half have completed one or more subsequent courses.