The Curriculum at a Glance

In this 5-module program, teachers will guide the students to:
  • Identify basic characteristics and implications of aging
  • Respond appropriately to ethical dilemmas
  • Describe and practice the "caring presence" communication approach
  • Define critical thinking and describe its benefits to working with older adults
  • Describe the skills necessary for excellent customer service

Check out below what each module covers:

1

Module 1 Caregiving: The Aging Experience

Students will learn about the physical, mental and emotional effects of aging as well as other issues that can be great concern to elder friends, family, or clients. The student will also experience a simulation of the challenges faced by older adults.

2

Module 2 Caregiving: Discovering Value

The module will introduce the profession of caregiving and explore the importance of individual values, having a positive work ethic, reducing stress and setting goals to develop a personal action plan.

3

Module 3 Caregiving: Walking in Another’s Shoes

This module will introduce “caring presence”. Students will learn communication essentials of active listening and asking questions as the fundamentals for customer service excellence.

4

Module 4 Caregiving: Together is Better

Students will learn to develop critical thinking skills, good problem-solving techniques, characteristics of a great team, and how to work together to solve a team challenge.

5

Module 5 Caregiving: Unleashing My Inner Leader

Students will explore ways to build professional trust and credibility with others and to shape one’s own inner leader.

Credential Testing: 2-Part Final Exam

Final Exam Part 1: Online Test
Students will access the proctored online final examination consisting of 25 questions, 5 from each module. A passing grade is 80%, or 20 correct answers.
Final Exam Part 2: Elder Care Project
Students will select an older adult and engage in at least 4 hours of interaction that demonstrates the skills learned in the Elder Care Certificate training. Written reports about their experience must be submitted within 2 weeks following Final Exam Part 1.

Requirements for Student Success

To earn their Elder Care Certificate, students must complete the following:
  • Attend all five modules.
  • Complete homework assignments.
  • Receive a minimum score of 80% on the Final Exam Part 1 proctored exam.
  • Complete Final Exam Part 2, the Elder Care Project assignment.

Elder Care Certificate: Industry-Recognized Credential in Ohio

In Ohio, students can earn a variety of industry-recognized credentials (IRCs) for graduation credit through different types of organizations. These credentials, as approved by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW), include occupational licenses, certifications, and certificates. Industry-recognized credentials are an innovative approach to truly recognize and account for a student’s hard work in becoming career-ready and prepared for their best possible future. One such credential is the Elder Care Certificate, approved by ODEW for four IRCs within the Health career pathway. To earn the Elder Care Certificate of Achievement and be eligible for the four IRCs, students must:
  • Attend all five instructional modules,
  • Complete all assigned homework,
  • Score at least 80% on Final Exam Part 1 (a proctored online test), and
  • Submit Final Exam Part 2: Elder Care Project assignment.
For Ohio Teachers trained to deliver the Elder Care Certificate curriculum: Schools are required to pay for the cost of a student’s industry-recognized credential and are eligible for ODEW reimbursement for students who earn the Elder Care Certificate. For students and schools to receive benefits and recognition from the ODEW, schools must report qualifying industry-recognized credentials earned by students to the Education Management Information System. Please refer to the ODEW website for specific information: https://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-s-Graduation-Requirements/Contacts-and-Resources/Industry-Recognized-Credentials/Industry-Recognized-Credentials-Guide
Elder Care Certificate is Copyright 2025 Ohio State Innovation Foundation. Curriculum is reserved for the use of licensee ImpactDS Consulting, LLC, and certified trainers.
© Copyright 2025 ImpactDS Consulting, LLC Web.com Group, Inc. All rights reserved. All registered trademarks herein are the property of their respective owners.