A Continuing Care Assistant ¹ (CCA) is an individual who provides assistance with activities of daily living to individuals of all ages in a variety of health care practice settings, for the purpose of promoting holistic health and independence. CCA Certification is the entry-level education required to practice as a personal care provider2 within Nova Scotia’s continuing care sector. This includes nursing homes and home care agencies providing services to NS Department of Health Wellness (DHW) clients. CCAs are also employed by other health care service providers such as hospitals and residential care facilities.

The CCA Program was introduced in Nova Scotia in 2000 to replace DHW recognized personal care worker, home support worker and home health aide designations. The CCA education prepares personal care providers2 to work in either facility-based or home care settings, assisting individuals with instrumental/activities of daily living (ADLs and IADLs), meeting the CCA Scope of Practice and Competency Framework.

The CCA Program reflects a person-centred philosophy. This philosophy is a holistic social model of care, which considers the person and their families to be at the center of the care and services provided. The goal of person-centred care is to create therapeutic relationships/partnerships among care provider staff, the client, and their families that will lead to the quality care outcomes and enhance the quality of life. The person-centred philosophy recognizes individuals have unique values, diverse backgrounds, personal preferences, an equal right to dignity, respect, and to participate fully in their environment.²

¹ A Certified CCA holds provincial certification from the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness (DHW). Certified CCAs have completed all components of the CCA Program from a recognized education provider and have passed the provincial certification examination.

² Modified: Alzheimer Society of Canada