Care of The Older Person – QQI Level 5

Course Overview

The Care of the Older Person component is a QQI Level 5 Minor Award which is designed to provide the learner with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to support and meet the needs of older people and to care effectively and to a high standard using the best practice while adhering to current legislative and regulatory requirements. Learners will develop an understanding of the concept of the aging process and explore ways to enhance the quality of life of the older person.

Care of the Older Person enables learners to acquire the skills to meet the needs of the older person and to understand the role of the healthcare assistant in promoting a positive attitude to aging and death and dying. Learners develop the skills necessary to deliver the best practices associated with the provision of holistic care and to explore the range of services available to older people. Learners are encouraged to take a proactive role in health promotion and to gain knowledge of basic therapeutic intervention skills. The importance of communication is emphasised throughout the programme. Learners are required to complete 30 hours of work placement in a suitable healthcare setting where they are provided with opportunities to put what they learn through their studies, into practice.

NOTE: For many settings, learners will be required to have completed Manual Handling and Cardiac First Responder training in advance of work placement.