Educational Requirements for Retirement Living Careers

If you’re considering a career in the senior living sector, you may be curious about the types of positions you qualify for. While many positions listed for retirement homes require specialized educational prerequisites, some roles may require standard qualifications, such as strong oral and written communication skills and superior customer service experience. 

Seasons Retirement Communities has developed a culture rooted in their company vision Connect, Care, Change®. Seasons believes that when they genuinely connect with and care about their residents, they can positively change their lives and, in turn, their staff. The organization hires people passionate about genuine care; the rest can be taught! Whether you are interested in care, dining, recreation, sales, business or environmental services, Seasons has full and part-time positions available. If desired, team members can move between different departments based on their strengths and interests to develop their career paths. Additionally, Seasons’ online learning platform allows staff to complete specific courses to help support them in their position.

To learn more about the types of certificates, courses, and diplomas you need to secure employment at a retirement community such as Seasons, below are a couple of the more common job positions available and the educational and other course/certification prerequisites required:

Care Coordinator

The Care Coordinator provides professional nursing care to residents by required medical care and established service plans and practices.

• Ontario: RN or RPN/LPN designation and current registration with the College of Nurses
• Alberta: Regulatory College for Alberta LPNs (CLPNA)
• Current certificate of competence with the applicable provincial College of Nurses
• Current CPR & First Aid Certification

All Care Coordinators who will be administering medications to residents should also have completed the following:

• A RPN Nursing Program which contains a Medication Administration course as part of the core program; a RPN Medication Administration Certificate program provided in Ontario since 1985, or a Medication Administration Certificate course equivalent to the course content offered in the Ontario Community College Registered Practical Nurse Medication Administration Certificate program/LPN/RN Medication Administration Program per regulatory board certification program Alberta

Health and Wellness Manager

The Health and Wellness Manager oversees the Care Services Team, monitors residents’ well-being, and ensures they receive appropriate care to meet their needs.

• Education or Certification in Social Work Diploma Program, Gerontology, Adult Education Certification or relevant Health and Wellness related certification/diploma will be considered
• Current CPR & First Aid Certification, Class G Driver’s license, Medication Administration training

All Health and Wellness Managers who will be administering medications to residents shall have completed the following:

• A RPN Nursing Program which contains a Medication Administration course as part of the core program
• A RPN Medication Administration Certificate program provided in Ontario since 1985 or a Medication Administration Certificate course equivalent to the course content offered in the Ontario Community College Registered Practical Nurse Medication Administration Certificate program

Resident and Guest Attendant – Care

The Resident and Guest Attendant – Care (RGA Care) is responsible for safely and efficiently providing residents with personal care and other services.

• Post-secondary education in related care fields of PSW/HCA/ DSW certification or relative equivalent professional experience
• Current CPR & First Aid Certification
• Assist with administering medication to residents as required once supporting training has been completed

General Manager 

The General Manager is responsible for all aspects of the community’s daily operation, primarily focusing on creating an atmosphere where residents enjoy a lifestyle and quality of life that exceeds their expectations.

• Graduate of a certificate/diploma or degree in nursing, social work, gerontology, hospitality or business
• Current CPR & First Aid Certification, Pro Serve Certification, Food Handler Certification, valid Class 5

If you know someone you think would be an excellent fit for Seasons and is looking to make a difference in the lives of others, you can encourage them to apply today. You can find job listings in your area by clicking here. Simply put, it feels great to make an impact in the life of a senior.