Gerontology for companions: a model curriculum

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Social Work
• Adult Education

Background:

• Paid companions often lack formal training in gerontology.
• This gap limits their ability to effectively support older adults facing complex issues.
• Socially isolated older clients require specialized communication and care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide paraprofessional companions with academic training in gerontological theory.
• To enhance companions' skills in communication, understanding the aging process, and managing loss and grief.
• To improve the quality of care for socially isolated older adults.

Main Methods:

• A pilot curriculum was developed through a partnership between an academic institution, a case management agency, and a direct service provider.
• Paraprofessional companions received academic training.
• Pretest and posttest data were collected to measure learning outcomes.

Main Results:

• Companions demonstrated increased knowledge of continued growth and development in older clients.
• Participants reported greater self-fulfillment.
• Job satisfaction among companions significantly improved.

Conclusions:

• Academic training in gerontology benefits paid companions working with older adults.
• Enhanced theoretical and practical grounding improves companion self-perception and job satisfaction.
• Investing in companion education can positively impact elder care quality.