Become a Skilled Continuing Care Assistant and Make a Difference in People's Lives

The Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic is a one-year certificate program that equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to provide compassionate, professional care to individuals in long-term care, home care, and other healthcare settings. The program is available in Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert, with the added flexibility of part-time distance learning through the Centre for Continuing Education and local regional colleges.

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Why Choose the Continuing Care Assistant Program?

As the healthcare sector continues to grow, the demand for qualified Continuing Care Assistants is on the rise. This program offers hands-on training, in-depth knowledge, and real-world experience to prepare you for a rewarding career in healthcare.

Program Highlights:

• Flexible learning options: On-campus and distance education

• Comprehensive curriculum focusing on the psychosocial and physical care of individuals

• Practical experience through lab work and clinical practicums

• Personalized care techniques for individuals with diverse needs and backgrounds

• Gain a deep understanding of gerontology, dementia management, and end-of-life care

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What You’ll Learn – Key Skills and Knowledge Areas

The Continuing Care Assistant program provides students with the practical skills needed to assist individuals with various physical and cognitive impairments. You'll learn how to provide compassionate care while promoting independence in a safe and supportive environment.

Key Areas of Study:

• Psychosocial Needs: Addressing emotional, mental, and social needs of individuals in care

• Communication Skills: Developing effective communication strategies for interacting with patients, families, and healthcare teams

• Infection Control: Using personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent the spread of infectious diseases

• Personal Care: Assisting with bathing, toileting, and other daily personal care tasks for older adults

• Death and Dying Practices: Understanding cultural and ethical considerations in end-of-life care

• Dementia Management: Strategies for caring for individuals with dementia and related conditions

• Gerontology: A comprehensive study of aging and the physical, psychological, and social aspects of growing older

• Long-Term Care Philosophy: Exploring different approaches to long-term care in various settings

• Cultural Competency: Understanding and working with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds

• Promoting Independence: Empowering individuals to maintain independence in a supportive environment

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Career Opportunities in Continuing Care

Graduates of the Continuing Care Assistant program are well-prepared to enter a variety of rewarding roles within the healthcare sector. You’ll be ready to work in long-term care facilities, home care, hospitals, and community settings.

Potential Job Titles:

• Continuing Care Assistant (CCA)

• Personal Care Worker

• Home Care Aide

• Long-Term Care Assistant

• Residential Care Aide

• Dementia Care Worker

• Healthcare Assistant

Employers:

• Long-Term Care Facilities

• Home Care Agencies

• Hospitals and Healthcare Clinics

• Rehabilitation Centres

• Assisted Living Communities

• Community Care Programs

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Practical Learning Experience

The Continuing Care Assistant program includes clinical practicums where you’ll gain direct experience working with individuals in real healthcare settings. This hands-on learning component allows you to apply the skills you've learned in the classroom and build confidence in providing compassionate care.

Practicum Settings:

• Long-Term Care Facilities

• Home and Community Care

• Hospitals

• Rehabilitation and Assisted Living Centres