In search of an experienced and compassionate companion/caregiver for individual with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. Candidate must understand the different phases of the disease and be willing to support the client's needs as they move from one phase of the disease to the next with patience and compassion. Client is a 70 YO male in the middle stages of disease, with loss of short term memory but otherwise in good physical health. The candidate is mobile and in good physical condition. Client is able to do most things for themselves but needs gentle prodding and follow-up for bathing, shaving, tooth brushing and maintaining good personal hygiene. Ideal candidate will be required to perform the following tasks:
1. Prepare healthful breakfast, lunch and dinner meals
2. Take client on walks
3. Take client to gym regularly
4. Drive client to medical and personal appointment
5. Make medical and dental appointments as necessary and follow up to get results and take additional actions as necessary
6. Do grocery shopping as needed
7. Take client to social activities including mini golf, movies, dance lessons, etc.
8. Engage client in activities like puzzles, board games, word games and memory-support activities daily
9. Ensure client bathes and shaves regularly
10. Engage client in conversation regularly
11. Travel with client from time to time if needed
12. Ensure client takes their daily medications on schedule
13. Light laundry and housekeeping (when client is napping or watching TV at home)
14. Pick up prescriptions
15. Keep a daily log of activities and issues that may arise pertaining to client
Candidate must:
1. Have 4 years or more recent previous experience working with adults with Alzheimer's disease or Dementia
2. Have a patient temperament and empathetic nature
3. Have a positive attitude and be self-motivated to get things done every day
4. Be organized and able to track progress and challenges client may face on a regular basis
5. Be able to prepare simple healthy meals (food provided)
6. Already have or be willing to get CPR certified
7. Have energy to handle duties and keep client engaged in daily activities
8. Work with family members who are engaged in supporting client on a regular basis
9. Agree to a criminal and financial background check
10. Speak English (at least as a second language) and be able to communicate clearly and precisely
11. Have a vehicle ($.70 per mile will be paid each month for personal vehicle usage associated with job requirements). Candidate must keep driving records associated with work related travel for shopping, doctor and dentist appointments and leisure activities during work hours and days.
Particulars:
A. Only qualified individuals need applywe are not interested in candidates that are not willing to be actively engaged in helping client improve or maintain their memory and brain function by keeping them verbally and mentally challenged with conversation, games and other brain-support activities on a daily basis.
B. Resume or bio outlining experience required
C. Must have 2 professional and 2 personal references. Job will not be offered without contact with these references.
D. Candidate must be available to start within 15-30 days of offer
E. Current drivers license and clean driving record required
F. Selected candidate will live in the home with the client. The home is one level with a basement that is rented so the candidate will live on the main level with the client. Each will have their own bedroom and there is a shared bathroom.
G. Candidate will work 5 days per week and have 2 days off during the week. The two days will be coordinated with the client's brother who will cover for the candidate during their two days off.
The family is looking for someone who can develop a good personal relationship with the client and treat the client with respect and dignity during all phases of support. If you are a committed worker and someone who gets joy from helping those with special needs and brain disorders, we would love to speak with you.
