GWEP Apprenticeship Program: Bridging the Gap in Geriatric Care for CNAs

The aging population is rapidly growing, and with it, the need for skilled healthcare professionals trained in geriatric care. apprenticeship provides a vital solution to this workforce challenge. At AGE-u-cate Training Institute, we are committed to supporting healthcare professionals, including Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), by offering effective tools and training that enhance empathy and improved care quality, especially for those caring for seniors. Through the GWEP CNA Apprenticeship Program, the future of elder care is becoming more compassionate and patient-centered.

What is the GWEP Apprenticeship Program?

The Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) is funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). It focuses on educating and training healthcare professionals to provide high-quality, comprehensive care for older adults. The program works through partnerships between universities, community organizations, and healthcare systems. A key element of the GWEP initiative is the apprenticeship model, which offers on-the-job training and mentorship for CNAs, allowing them to specialize in geriatrics, dementia care, and person-centered care.

For CNAs, the GWEP Apprenticeship is a unique opportunity to receive hands-on training and build specialized skills that are increasingly critical in today's healthcare landscape. The program not only improves care for older adults but also enhances the career pathways for CNAs, providing them with valuable certifications and job stability.

Benefits of the GWEP Apprenticeship Program for CNAs

1. Specialized Training in Geriatrics
   CNAs in the apprenticeship program receive targeted education in geriatrics, with a focus on issues such as dementia care, fall prevention, and chronic disease management. This specialized training is crucial as the healthcare system is seeing more patients with complex health needs related to aging.
2. Practical Experience and Mentorship
   Through the apprenticeship model, CNAs gain real-world experience in a healthcare setting under the guidance of experienced professionals. Mentorship plays a key role in helping CNAs apply their skills, adapt to complex care scenarios, and develop a deeper understanding of the unique needs of elderly patients. This hands-on experience strengthens confidence and competence in caregiving.
3. Pathway to Career Growth
   The apprenticeship not only enhances the skills of CNAs but also offers them the opportunity to advance in their careers. With specialized training, CNAs are better positioned for roles in long-term care facilities, home health care, and other senior care environments. This program sets them apart, making them more attractive candidates for employers seeking expertise in geriatric care.
4. Addressing Workforce Shortages
   One of the goals of the GWEP is to address the growing shortage of healthcare workers equipped to care for an aging population. By developing a workforce trained in geriatrics, the apprenticeship program is helping to fill the gap, ensuring that older adults receive the quality care they deserve.

The Role of AGE-u-cate® Training Institute

At AGE-u-cate® Training Institute, we believe in transforming how elder care is delivered by empowering healthcare professionals with empathy-based training. We are dedicated to supporting CNAs participating in the GWEP Apprenticeship Program by offering complementary training programs such a Dementia Live®, which provides immersive experiences to enhance dementia awareness, and Compassionate Touch®, a tool for enhancing person-centered care, and REVEAL Aging Micro-learning courses focusing on improving quality of life.  These programs build trust, empathy, and caregiving skills that align perfectly with the goals of GWEP.

Conclusion

The GWEP CNA Apprenticeship Program is an innovative approach to addressing the workforce challenges in geriatric care. By offering CNAs specialized training and practical experience in elder care, the program not only improves the quality of life for older adults but also provides CNAs with the tools they need to advance their careers. At AGE-u-cate®, we are proud to support this mission, and together, we can transform the future of elder care through education, empathy, and hands-on training.

For more information on how to join or support the GWEP Apprenticeship Program, visit HRSA’s GWEP page​.

Find out here how AGE-u-cate's programs are supporting the GWEP program initiatives.