Virginia Acosta, CNA, QMAP
Virginia Acosta is a dedicated Certified Nursing Assistant based in Greeley, Colorado, with approximately 23 years of experience in long-term care and geriatric healthcare. She currently serves as a Resident Assistant and QMAP at High Plains Crossing, where she provides hands-on support to residents in a memory care environment. Her recent roles also include Certified Nursing Assistant positions with PAM Health and Fairacres Manor, where she has been involved in direct patient care, patient assessment, and daily support activities for residents.
Throughout her career, Virginia has developed a strong specialization in memory care, particularly working with individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Her early experience in healthcare began in dietary services, followed by exposure to multiple support roles such as housekeeping and laundry, which gave her a well-rounded understanding of facility operations and resident needs. This foundation helped her develop a deeper appreciation for specialized diets, patient routines, and the importance of consistent, compassionate care.
Virginia is also QMAP-certified, allowing her to assist with medication administration under nursing supervision, and she frequently helps train and mentor new CNAs entering the field. She is known for her emphasis on empathy, dignity, and patient-centered care, and she strongly believes that caregiving requires genuine passion rather than motivation alone. Her professional approach is rooted in long-term relationship-building with residents and supporting families in understanding the progression of memory-related conditions.
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• QMAP (Qualified Medication Administration Personnel)
• Alzheimer's awareness and support
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Long-term Care
- Geriatrics
- Memory care (Alzheimer’s and dementia care)
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
What I enjoy most is getting to work hands-on with our residents and getting to know them on a more personal level. As a CNA, I've had more of a privilege of getting to know the residents that I work with on a more personal level, rather than just seeing them for assessments or medication administration. I get to spend real time with them, understand their needs, and build meaningful relationships. That's actually why I chose to stay as a CNA rather than become a nurse - because I wanted to maintain that close, personal connection with the people I care for. Being able to make a difference in their daily lives and help them feel respected and cared for is what makes this work meaningful to me.