Social Service Assistant

Become a Social Service Assistant

Social Service Assistants form a vital link between the professional staff, patients and their family members in long-term care (LTC) facilities. If you want a rewarding career helping less able members of our society, Social Service Assistant may be the choice for you. This 100% online course will prepare you to work as a Social Service Assistant.

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Job Outlook for Social Service Assistants

  • According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for Social and Human Service Assistants is expected to grow by 17% between now and 2029. This is much faster than the average for most other jobs. 
  • The BLS estimates that Human and Social Service Assistants earn $16.85 per hour, or $35,060 per year, on average. According to PayScale.com, top Social Service Assistants make $18.70 per hour.

Social Service Assistants FAQs

What do Social Service Assistants do?

Social Service Assistants work under the direction of licensed social workers and LTC facility staff to provide services to patients and their families. Duties may include assisting with admissions, informing patients of their rights, advocating on patients' behalf and helping patients adjust to life in the LTC environment.

Is licensing required for Social Services Assistants?

Each US state sets its own licensure requirements for Social Services Assistants. After completing this course, you will be qualified to work in the following states: WA, CA, ID, WY, NM, ND, KS, OK, TX, MN, MO, WI, TN, AL, OH, WV, NH, FL. Please check with your state for its requirements.

Has COVID-19 impacted Social Services Assistant jobs?

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human services workers are crucial to limiting the spread of the Coronavirus, especially among the elderly. According to SocialWorkers.org, the mental and emotional impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may create additional opportunities for those who do the work of Social Service Assistants.

Course Objectives

Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the aging process, including misconceptions, physical changes and psycho-social aspects

Demonstrate knowledge of applicable state and federal regulations

Show understanding of the rights of individuals who reside in long-term care facilities

Demonstrate knowledge of the admission and discharge process

Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of documentation

Demonstrate ability in basic performance skills, such as teamwork, communication skills and working with administrative staff and other disciplines

Discuss issues involved in the management of internal support staff, budgeting, supplies, and outside resources

Show understanding of methods of identifying resident interests and needs and the use of assessment in care plan development

Evaluate a care plan for effectiveness

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Curriculum

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY OF LONG-TERM CARE

Learn about the history of long-term care and the philosophies surrounding patient-centered care. Explore the fundamentals of the aging process and discuss common misconceptions about physical changes.

 

OVERVIEW OF REGULATIONS AND RIGHTS

Understand the rules and regulations that will affect you in your future role. Learn about residents' rights and advocacy situations for you and your patients.

 

DOCUMENTATION AND PERFORMANCE SKILLS

Develop an understanding of the techniques used for admissions and discharging patients. Study the principles of documentation and basic performance skills.

 

PROCESSES AND ETHICS

Learn about the ethics of social workers and the roles of managers in the system. Learn how to effectively solve problems and support patients.

 

FINANCIAL PLANNING AND LEGAL ISSUES

Examine the legal and financial issues that might affect you as a social services assistant. Learn how to create a professional image and communicate well with others.