Home Health Aide
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Job Description
About Hebrew SeniorLife:
Hebrew SeniorLife employees are committed to redefining the experience of aging. They strive to make a difference in the lives of patients, residents, their families, and the senior care community through compassion, resilience, and determination. Hebrew SeniorLife offers opportunities for growth and provides a supportive environment to advance professional potential. Benefits include excellent medical and dental benefits (available on the first day for positions over 24 hours/week), a 403b retirement plan, generous paid time off, on-site health and wellness programming, tuition reimbursement and scholarships, and an employee recognition program.
Job Description:
Hebrew SeniorLife is seeking dedicated pre-med or healthcare-focused students to join their new innovative respite care program as Home Health Aides. This program, funded by an Alzheimer’s Association grant, offers a unique opportunity to provide high-quality respite care to individuals with dementia and support their families. This role will provide compassionate, in-home care while offering valuable clinical experience.
Responsibilities:
• Complete in-person training and certification process for home health aide, provided by Hebrew SeniorLife (2 full days, available on weekends).
• Work with program coordinator to match with a family in need of respite services and work out a customized schedule. Typical weekly hours could range from 2-4 visits/week, 8-20 hours.
• Provide personal care services to patients as prescribed by the physician and in compliance with regulations, including:
• Assisting patients with daily living activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and mobility.
• Providing assistance with feeding and ensuring proper hydration.
• Helping patients with light exercises.
• Building rapport and providing emotional support through conversations and activities.
• Encouraging participation in mentally stimulating and meaningful activities.
• Accompanying patients on short walks or outdoor activities.
• Monitoring patients’ physical and mental conditions and documenting any changes.
• Reporting any significant changes in patients’ health status, behavior, or mood to the supervising nurse or care coordinator promptly.
• Maintaining accurate records of daily activities, observations, and services provided.
• Assisting with light housekeeping duties related to patient care.
• Preparing simple meals and snacks for the patient according to dietary guidelines and preferences.
• Helping with medication reminders and ensuring medications are taken according to the care plan (under supervision; not involving direct medication administration).
• Providing families and primary caregivers with respite by taking over caregiving duties.
• Communicating effectively with family members about the patient’s condition and any needs or concerns.
• Offering guidance on safety measures and assistive devices that can improve the home environment for dementia care.
• Following personalized care plans developed by RN to ensure each patient receives tailored and comprehensive care.
• Actively participating in ongoing training and development programs.
• Maintaining a professional and compassionate demeanor.
Qualifications:
• Currently enrolled in their senior year of college with a focus on pre-medical studies; or graduated from college with a pre-med background and are currently working or pursuing graduate studies.
• Strong interest in gaining hands-on experience in patient care and working with dementia patients.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a compassionate and empathetic approach to care.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to different care environments.
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel to patient homes.
• Completion of free online training of Homemaker offered by Personal and Home Care Aide State Training (60-hour module).
