Section 388-112-0091. What are some examples of competencies and learning objectives for training on aging and older adults?

The competencies define the integrated knowledge, skills, or behavior expected of a long-term care worker after completing the training on aging and older adults. Learning objectives are associated with each competency.

(1) Regarding the competency on an introduction to aging, draw upon a basic understanding of the aging process and demonstrate awareness of the unique needs of older adults:

(a) Describe basic information on the aging process, including the difference between age-related changes and a disease process;

(b) List typical changes that occur with aging;

(c) Identify common stereotypes, biases, myths, and misconceptions regarding aging, ageism, and older adults;

(d) Describe how ageism, biases, myths, and misconceptions can influence care to older residents;

(e) Describe how aging affects the resident's needs and behaviors; and

(f) Describe the value of adapting caregiving to the age-related concerns of the resident.

(2) Regarding the competency on age-associated physical changes, provide individualized care by understanding physical changes that are experienced in aging:

(a) Identify common physical changes experienced in the aging process;

(b) Describe common sensory changes that occur in aging and their impact on an older adult's activities;

(c) Describe the difference between age-associated physical changes versus a disease process; and

(d) Describe how age-related physical changes can impact functioning and the ability to perform personal care.

(3) Regarding the competency on cultural impacts of aging, provide culturally compassionate care by utilizing a basic understanding of issues related to culture and aging:

(a) Describe how race/ethnicity, poverty, and class influence the aging process;

(b) Describe how race/ethnicity, poverty, and class influence an older adult's help-seeking behavior; and

(c) Describe a culturally sensitive approach to working with older adults that demonstrates shared decision-making and mutual respect.

(4) Regarding the competency on ageism and supporting resident dignity, overcome ageism and support resident dignity by understanding stereotypes and myths regarding aging:

(a) Describe the concept of "ageism" and its possible impact on working with older adults;

(b) Identify his or her perceptions about aging and how these perceptions may contribute to "ageism";

(c) Describe how "ageism" can influence resident dignity; and

(d) Describe strategies for overcoming "ageism" and supporting resident dignity.

(5) Regarding the competency on supporting residents living with chronic medical conditions, provide appropriate care by recognizing how chronic conditions impact functioning:

(a) Describe how chronic medical conditions can influence and impact care for older adults;

(b) Describe strategies for working with an older adult with multiple chronic medical conditions;

(c) Describe proactive ways to support an older adult living with chronic medical conditions; and

(d) Describe how to help support the older adult's dignity while providing care.

(6) Regarding the competency on dealing with death, grief and loss, respond appropriately to a resident experiencing loss:

(a) Describe common examples of losses encountered in the aging process;

(b) Describe common reactions to loss of significant roles;

(c) Describe strategies for dealing with loss;

(d) Describe the value of promoting social engagement for the older adult;

(e) Identify strategies and opportunities for promoting social engagement; and

(f) Identify actions and resources that can be used to help an older adult work through feelings of grief and loss.

(7) Regarding the competency on supporting optimum health and wellness, support the optimum health and wellness of older adults:

(a) Identify key factors that support resident health and wellness;

(b) Identify strategies for promoting resident optimum health while aging;

(c) Identify strategies and opportunities to support an older adult to engage in healthy life style choices; and

(d) Describe his or her role in promoting optimum health and wellness for older residents.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 74.08.090, 74.09.520. WSR 13-02-023, § 388-112-0091, filed 12/20/12, effective 1/20/13.]

RCW 74.08.090, 74.09.520. WSR 13-02-023, § 388-112-0091, filed 12/20/12, effective 1/20/13.