Working with Older Adults

If you’re interested in working with older adults, there are several different career options to choose from. You could manage senior travel programs and coordinate international group trips to world famous destinations. You could work in the field of health and wellness and teach nutrition or exercise classes. You could also work in a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly, or RCFE, as long as you have your rcfe certification.

What is an RCFE?
RCFE stands for Residential Care Facility for the Elderly. This is a formal classification for assisted living facilities within the state of California that are dedicated to older adults. There are many different kinds of facilities with varying levels of care, from light supervision and daily medication administration to full time care that includes assistance with feeding, hygiene, and regular day to day activities.

What Kinds of Jobs are Available?
Some of the kinds of jobs available include executive director, meal services coordinator, residential program manager, financial manager, and several administrative support positions. Although it may not be required for a specific job, it’s a very good idea to get your rcfe certification before you apply to them. This initial certification meets state training requirements and helps ensure that you will have the information you need to be successful in your field. You will obtain valuable information and prove to the interview panel that you’re serious about wanting to work in the field.

How to Get Certified?
To obtain certification you need to take 60 hours of in-person classroom instruction, which needs to be taught be a licensed instructor. You also need to complete an additional 20 hours of online training. After you complete all the necessary coursework, you need to pass a state exam with a score of at least 70%. If you pass the exam you need to send an application and payment to the State of California, and they will mail your certificate to you.

Getting Certified to Work in Assisted Living Facilities

If you’re interested in becoming a manager or administrator of a Residential Care for the Elderly (RCFE) in the state of California, you will need to obtain an RCFE certification. Getting certified in some fields of expertise can be difficult and overwhelming for some people, but the process of getting certified to become an RCFE Administrator is really straight forward. Here are the steps that you need to take in order to get your RCFE certification.

Certification Pre-Requirements
Applicants must meet a few requirements before they begin the certification process. You must be at least 21 years old. You need to have completed high school or possess a GED. You must also have the knowledge and ability to provide supervision and care to others.

RCFE Certification Classes
You must complete a total of 80 hours of certified RCFE classes. Up to 20 hours of these classes can be taken online, and completed at your convenience. A total of 60 hours must be completed in person by a certified course instructor. You can do the coursework concurrently, you don’t need to wait to finish your online coursework before you begin live classes. You must attend all of the in person classes in order to take the state exam, though, so make sure you schedule the class for a time when you can reliably attend.

Pass the State Exam
The State of California requires applicants to take the standardized state test within sixty (60) days of completing all of their coursework. When you select your courses make sure you will be available to meet this deadline after their completion. There are 100 test questions, and the exam is open book. You must score at least 70% to pass.

Submit Application
You will receive a congratulatory letter if you pass the exam. You must submit a certification application within thirty (30) days of receiving your congratulatory letter along with a check or money order in the amount of $100 in order to receive your certificate.

Online vs. Classroom Learning for RCFE courses

If you’ve decided that you want to work with older adults and are considering obtaining your Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) certificate, you are headed in the right direction! Getting certified is a great way to learn about your field and get specialized knowledge so you can be a highly valued employee. Plus, having a certificate in a related field will always increase your chances of getting hired.

RCFE Classes

The first thing you’ll need to decide is how to take your rcfe classes. You can take classes online or at in-person classes. There are pros and cons to both options, so you’ll really just want to determine what works best for you.

Benefits of Online Classes

Flexible Schedule: So long as you can get online and do your work you can take classes whenever you are available.

More Affordable: Online classes are generally more affordable than classes offered in traditional classrooms because there are no facility related overhead charges.

No Commute: Rather than travel across town you can travel across the room to log into your computer.

Drawbacks to Online Classes

Self Sufficiency: In order to be successful at online learning you will need to be self-sufficient. There’s a greater need for personal responsibility.

No Live Interactions

Sometimes it just helps to be in a classroom so you can ask questions in real time and see everyone’s reactions and facial cues. Not everyone can learn online, some people are more experiential learners.

How To Prepare for RCFE Certification Training

If you live in the state of California and plan to be an administrator for a residential care facility, then you need to complete RCFE training and obtain an RCFE license. Like any other type of schooling, there are a few things you can do to prepare for your training.

Time

Before you sign up for classes, you need to know how much time you need to set aside to complete the training and certification. The state requires an 80-hour training class. Many classes are live meaning a full week dedicated to in-class time. The remaining time may be online and done at your pace. If you work another job and want to do the certification course, you may need to take a week off of work to do the training and squeeze in the online class work during your off time.

Expectations
Any training class should inform you ahead of time what the goals are for the class, how long it is expected to take and what you need to attend. Understand these before you take your first class. You want to be prepared with all necessary materials and supplies. Understanding what they expect out of you can help you mentally prepare to study.

Research
While all RCFE administrators need an RCFE license, not all programs are the same. Be sure to research the available training programs to find the right one for you. Choose one that fits into your budget, time constraints and meets the licensing requirements. Testimonials are a great way to see how other students enjoyed the classes. Speak with current students to get their opinion on a specific program then choose the best one for you.

Obtaining your RCFE license can prepare you for a rewarding career helping the elderly. This career is sure to be one that lasts years. The growing market of elderly care continues to demand experienced professionals with the compassion and desire to help.

What To Know Before Becoming an RCFE Administrator

If you enjoy taking care of senior citizens but want a more managerial role, you should consider a job as a Residential Care for the Elderly administrator. Below is everything you need to know about this career.

Job Requirements

In order to obtain RCFE administrator certification, you first need to graduate high school or obtain a GED. You also must be at least 21 years of age.

Next, you need to take an 80-hour certification class. A typical class includes 20 hours of online instruction and 60 hours of live lectures. After you complete the class, you must pass an open-book state exam consisting of 100 questions.

You also need to submit an application to become an RCFE administrator. The process includes a background check and the payment of a $100 fee.

Job Description

An RCFE administrator job involves coordinating and managing services at RCFE facilities. In other words, administrators oversee the daily operations at these centers. They ensure that the patients are properly monitored and that adequate security and transportation is provided.

While RCFE administrators typically work in an office, they are constantly communicating with their staff members in the facility. Since an RCFE center never closes, administrators often have to remain on-call during the evening hours. If this sounds like the job for you, sign up for classes today to get your RCFE administrator certification!

RCFE Certification and Training

Becoming certified to work at a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) is a great idea if you want to work with the elderly population. It isn’t particularly difficult, but you need to take a number of steps you need to follow to ensure you obtain your certification. It’s also not a bad idea to start thinking about what kinds of rcfe continuing education you may want to partake in.

RCFE Certification
Please note that you must be at least 21 years of age and have a high school diploma (or equivalent) in order to become certified.

There are several agencies that provide classes, which you can easily find from an online search. Just make certain they provide a minimum of sixty (60) hours of live classroom instruction.

There are a total of 80 hours of training required for rcfe certification. 60 hours must be in-person classroom instruction and 20 hours of training can be completed online. After you complete your training you will need to take an exam. You must take the standardized state exam within sixty (60) days of completing your classes, and you must score at least 70% in order to pass.

RCFE Continuing Education
RCFE Administrators are required to complete at least 40 hours of RCFE continuing education every 2 years in order to keep their certification current. At least half of those hours need to be obtained through in-person classroom instruction.

In addition to being required, though, RCFE continuing education is highly recommended because it can provide you with important and up-to-date information about senior-related topics.

Some of the training topics include facility management, resident care, medication administration, and state regulations. You can also take specialized classes in a number of different topic areas. There are classes dedicated to Alzheimer’s, Dementia, pain management and diabetes.

There are several agencies that provide rcfe continuing education classes, which you can easily find online.

A Guide to Starting a California-Based Assisted Living Facility

With the growing number of Americans reaching retirement age, there is a greater need for assisted living facilities than ever before. As seniors age, they need more specialized care. Opening an assisted living facility in California requires a basic business plan, training, an RCFE license and at least 16 beds available. Here’s a brief guide to get you started.

Licensing

California requires an RCFE license for both the facility and the administrators. Obtaining the right training is the first step in caring for the elderly in the state. The training consists of a 100-question exam after about 80 hours of training. Additional college coursework may be required if you want to operate a facility larger than 16 beds. All staff must be trained for the facility to meet the state requirements.

Service

You must decide on the number of beds you wish to operate. Larger facilities must meet additional requirements and have larger staff numbers. Smaller facilities may not make as much profit but may be easier to operate, especially for first-time administrators. The facility can cater to specialized interests within the senior community such as religious or offer special services such as Alzheimer’s care.

Location

The location of your facility is key to having long-term success. Building or leasing a space without the ability to expand may not be the best solution. Choose a location that has an aging population, near local hospitals and market groups that may need additional care. Zoning laws are something else to consider when choosing a location.

Opening an assisted living facility in California may take a little time since you have to obtain an RCFE license. Once you find the funding to start your operation, start preparing to offer service to customers. Marketing your facility can keep you in the minds of the local population for when they may need to use your facility for their loved ones or themselves.

How To Become Director of an RCFE Facility

The head of a Residential Facility for the Elderly manages the day-to-day operations of the assisted living center. Before obtaining this job, you have to go through a certification process that includes passing an RCFE administrator test. Read on to find out how to become director of an RCFE.

1. Get Experience

Of course, if you want to run an entire RCFE, you need to have some experience working with the elderly. Find an entry-level job or volunteer position at a senior center or nursing home. This will also help you determine if an RCFE administrator job is right for you.

2. Obtain Your Diploma

There is no specific degree program requirement for RCFE directors. However, you do need to have either graduated from high school or received a GED.

3. Complete Training

While you do not need an advanced degree to become an RCFE director, you do require some training. Specifically, you must get 80 hours of training in a classroom or online setting.

4. Pass the Test

After you complete your training, you must take the RCFE administrator test. After you pass the exam, you can apply to become an RCFE director.

Once you receive your RCFE administration certificate, you are free to open and direct your own RCFE. However, in order to keep running the facility, you have to take continuing education classes and renew the certificate every two years.

Senior Care Facilities Provide It All

Assisted living facilities provide care for adults who are not fully capable of performing day to day tasks without help. These days, most of these homes are fully staffed to attend to more than just the basic needs of the patients. The RCFE administrator sees to it that the seniors are still able to live a fulfilling lifestyle.

Staff Members

Staff members play a vital role in assisted living communities. These homes typically have nurses on staff to attend to the medical needs of the patients. Caregivers are responsible for helping the elders with daily functions and activities. Many of the people living in these facilities require different types of therapy, such as physical, occupational and speech. These certified professionals provide their services to residents as needed. The RCFE administrator is responsible for overseeing the facility. He or she makes the schedules, oversees the staff and performs other administrative duties.

Activities

Although many of the residents require daily assistance, it is important for them to have fun and stay active as well. Most of these facilities have at least one activity room. There are usually board and card games available to the residents at all times. Often times group activities such as knitting, bingo or movie night are on the schedule. Group fitness classes are offered to people of all skill levels. This can include anything from power walking to water aerobics.

Dining

Meals are an important part of these homes. They are a time for residents to get together and enjoy each other’s company. They are also a popular time for visitors. The chef on staff has a daily menu available usually featuring a myriad of options to account for people’s varying tastes. Some facilities have even gone so far as to provide some fine dining options for their residents.

As the demand for better assisted living homes has increased, many facilities have responded. Just because these seniors require some help, does not mean they shouldn’t continue to have an enjoyable lifestyle. The RCFE administrator and staff members continue to work hard to make sure the residents are happy and healthy.

4 Surprising Facts You Didn’t Know About Assisted Living

Assisted living care facilities allow elderly residents to continue living independent lives while also offering help when needed. Pursuing an assisted living manager certification sets you up to begin a career in RCFE. If you’re considering elderly care, here are some surprising things you may not have known.




They’re Not Nursing Homes




Although many people use the terms interchangeably, nursing homes and assisted living facilities are not the same thing. Nursing homes are for individuals who need a great deal of care in their daily life and can not get by without it. Residents in assisted living facilities are still able to handle many of their daily needs but also receive assistance with some tasks which are difficult for them.




No Two Communities are the Same



The assisted living industry is not a monolith. Every facility has its own perks and amenities which appeal to different potential residents. When you earn your assisted living manager certification you’ll learn many great ways to make your facility an exciting option.




Pets are Often Welcome



Just because a resident is moving into a facility doesn't mean they have to give up their beloved pets. Many facilities allow for pets to come along so there are no painful separations.




You Don’t Need to Uncouple




Your assisted living manager certification course will prepare you for a wide range of care scenarios, and you’ll learn that even a couple with very different needs can often be served at the same community. There’s no need for the couple to separate in order to receive excellent care.

Unfamiliar Facts About Online Education

Many considerations are necessary when considering online education. A popular option for alternative learning is online RCFE certification, which stands for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly. To determine if this path is right for you, consider the following things that many people do not know about online education.

Accreditation

Many people do not consider online education because they fear that it will not be recognized in their field of study. Consider the fact that many programs are fully accredited by the necessary organizations. You do not have to wonder if your program is approved or not. Check out the program website or the accreditation website to see if your certificate or degree will be recognized when you enter the work force. An approved online program might be the perfect option for you to get your certificate through a learning style that works best for you or quickly get that promotion you have been wanting.

In-Person Requirements

Another commonly overlooked fact of online education is that possibility of in-person requirements. You may have to go to class once a month, or you may have to log and turn in your active training. The online RCFE certification, for example, requires 20 live hours to renew the license if you are in the state of California. Check your program and state requirements to thoroughly understand what you will need to do.

Screen Time & Personality

A computer or device is essential to online courses. As such, a lot of screen time is inevitable. This could be a pro or con, depending on the person. Consider how and where you work best to determine if computer work will be right for you. Online programs require self-motivation. Are you able to schedule your time well? Do you follow tasks through to completion? Then your personality might be a good fit for an online education.



For an online RCFE certification or other online programs, consider the accreditation, in-person requirements, screen time, and your personality. This alternative form of education could be what you are looking for.

Climbing the Ladder at an Assisted Living Facility

Being a caregiver is a difficult occupation, but for some, bringing joy and providing assistance to the elderly is the most rewarding career imaginable. An admirable goal for those who cherish such challenges is to become a director of an assisted living facility. Fortunately, programs like Assisted Living Education provide caregiver training for FCFE to help achieve those aspirations.

Elderly Experience

Before you can organize an entire facility, it helps to know what you’re getting into. Try and gain some experience working with elderly patients, be they at your current job or within your own family. Future directors need to develop an understanding of what it takes to really care for and provide an excellent quality of life to those in need.

Degrees of Dedication

Having a college degree does more than showcasing your ability to learn. It illustrates organizational, logisticall and comprehension skills that are necessary to run any major business. Focusing your degree on elderly assistance will also give you a leg up towards entering the field.

Continuing Coursework

In order to run an FCFE, most states require you to take a training program, including coursework and in-house training at state-funded institutions. Since a lot of time, energy and focus goes into maintaining such facilities, and a lot of responsibility is on the Director’s shoulders, it’s important that the state and families are confident in your abilities.
A License to Lead

Institutions require some form of licensing to ensure you meet state and federal guidelines. While each state has their own rules for authorization, many also utilize national regulations and require additional licenses as well. An assisted living administrator certification is also necessary, requiring an additional two years of work experience in the field.

While it may seem like a lot of work, providing aid and a high quality of life to the elderly is immensely rewarding. Assisted Living Education understands the drive it takes to become an administrator of an assisted living facility and provides caregiver training for FCFE you need to achieve your dreams.