If you are a caregiver for older adults or people with disabilities who live in their homes or in a private nursing home, you should know that the California Department of Aging has hundreds of online courses that are not only free but also paid.
But you have to hurry, because the deadline to register is August 30 and you can earn up to $6,000 for learning new skills through the CalGrows training program.
During the videoconference, Time is Running Out: Free Online Training for California Home Health Care Workers, hosted by Ethnic Media Services, it was revealed who qualifies, how to enroll, and the skills caregivers can learn.
Connie Nakano, a spokeswoman for the California Department of Aging, said that by providing free training and financial incentives, they empower people to build a career in the health care field and prepare them to provide exceptional care.
“It really is more than a training program. It is an investment in the community because we are making sure our loved ones receive the care they deserve.”
She said they have more than 600 online courses in nine languages, and to date 14,000 caregivers have taken 89,000 courses.
“We have given seven million dollars in incentives to those who have taken these courses, and time is running out, because the courses will be available until the end of September, but the financial incentive will be given to those who register until August 31.”
He therefore encouraged all caregivers to take advantage of the Calgrows program.
“Some courses can be five hours long, and others are in several series, and the topics are diverse, you can learn about caring for someone with dementia, mental health and older adults.”
She said that being undocumented is not an impediment to taking the courses, but that to receive the paid incentives, they have to be a caregiver who receives an income.
All CalGrows incentive claims must be submitted by August 31st for payment.
Lidia Mawalu, a caregiver and CalGrows trainee in Monterey County, said the online courses have been a source of knowledge for her about caring for older adults.
“I have learned exactly what happens inside a person and that helps me understand what happens in the daily life of an older adult, for example with the medications we give them and how their body works.”
But he also said that he has learned about preventive care to avoid, for example, a person from falling.
“They have helped me to be proactive, to anticipate what may happen, and to know how to inspire the people we care for and help them enjoy life more. They have also improved my communication skills.”
Corrina Rucka, who Lidia Mawalu cares for, said she has always been an excellent caregiver, willing to help.
“He knows how to get things done, and he is always aware of what is going on around him. As soon as I wake up, he is there to ask me if I need anything. He is very aware of all my needs to help me.”
He said that depending on how the day is going and how he feels, Lidia suggests various things to him. “She is very considerate and loving.”
Carmen Contreras, who has taken CalGrows courses, said they have helped her father recover after he recently suffered a stroke and became dependent on her.
“I had to explain everything to his doctors step by step, and it is a joy to see that he is now 90% recovered.”
She explained that one of the courses she took was home health care, which took 40 hours, 10 days online and four weeks in person.
“Most of the course is online, the rest in person, and then you have to give a presentation. You can also do it in a school, and it takes 160 hours of your time.”
She explained that the course teaches you all the skills needed to assist a person with bathing, dressing and daily living activities.
“I was a professional caregiver in the past, but I really needed to update myself.”
She added that this program gave her the initial steps and foundation to possibly enter a career in the medical field. “It opened up different job possibilities for me.”
Both Lidia and Carmen received graduation certificates that must be renewed every two years with continuing education units.
Sean Hidalgo, a class manager at ACC Senior Services Community Center in Sacramento who helps register for the classes, said it has been a huge benefit to help a community develop those skills.
“There are a variety of courses ranging from dementia care to diet and mental health; and there is a class to understand the different processes of aging that help you be more empathetic and make the best choices.”
He said many people are suddenly faced with the need to acquire skills quickly.
“The Department of Aging is eager for everyone to know that these classes exist and to benefit from them.”
For more information on courses and requirements, please visit:
https://www.calgrows.org