Training and support needs for caregivers of the elderly. Experience of the Technician in Comprehensive Care of the Elderly at the Juan Pablo II University, Costa Rica

Abstract

Given the Costa Rican reality of the increase in the elderly population, where there is an average of 7 out of 10 households with an elderly member, it is imperative to meet the demand for training for people dedicated to caring for the elderly. The Juan Pablo II University, based on a person-centered care model and with a gerontological approach, launches an academic offer of formal education in virtual modality (remote face-to-face), a technical program in comprehensive care for the elderly. 10-month program, which is made up of two basic columns: One, training for caregivers, in the aspects necessary to care with dignity and the techniques required to care for an older person; the second column, courses focused on the personal and professional development and the care of the caregiver. An innovative proposal in the country. In this story, the experience of this Technician in Integral Care of the elderly person will be shared.