Home Health Aide

Job Description

About Company

Hebrew SeniorLife is an organization committed to redefining the experience of aging. Their employees are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of patients, residents, their families, and the broader senior care community daily. They foster a supportive environment where employees are encouraged to grow, leading to a collective impact. Hebrew SeniorLife emphasizes compassion, resilience, and determination in their work, recognizing the meaningful connections formed with those they serve.

Benefits offered by Hebrew SeniorLife include:
• Excellent medical and dental benefits, available on the first day for positions requiring over 24 hours per week.
• A 403b retirement plan open to all employees, including per diems.
• Generous paid time off.
• On-site health and wellness programming.
• Tuition reimbursement and scholarships.
• An employee recognition program.

Hebrew SeniorLife is an equal opportunity employer, celebrating diversity and committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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Job Description: Home Health Aide (Respite Care Program)

This position is for a Home Health Aide within a new, innovative respite care program funded by an Alzheimer’s Association grant. The program aims to provide compassionate, in-home care for individuals with dementia while offering valuable clinical experience for pre-med and healthcare-focused students.

Role Summary:
The Home Health Aide will receive training and certification as a Home Health Aide (HHA) and provide high-quality respite care to individuals with dementia, offering crucial support and relief to their families and caregivers. This role is designed to give pre-med and healthcare-focused students hands-on experience to prepare them for future careers in healthcare.

Responsibilities:
• Complete in-person training and certification for Home Health Aide, provided by Hebrew SeniorLife (2 full days, available on weekends).
• Collaborate with the program coordinator to be matched with a family in need of respite services and establish a customized schedule. Typical weekly hours could range from 2-4 visits/week, totaling 8-20 hours.
• Provide personal care services as prescribed by a physician and in compliance with state regulations (Massachusetts’s Home Health Aide services). This includes:
• 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 as recommended by healthcare professionals to maintain mobility and strength.
• Build rapport and provide emotional support to patients through engagement in conversations, reading, or playing simple games.
• Encourage participation in mentally stimulating and meaningful activities tailored to the interests and abilities of the patient.
• Accompany patients on short walks or outdoor activities as appropriate, ensuring their safety.
• Monitor patients’ physical and mental conditions, including checking vital signs if necessary, and documenting any changes.
• Report any significant changes in patients’ health status, behavior, or mood to the supervising nurse or care coordinator promptly.
• Maintain accurate records of daily activities, observations, and services provided.
• Assist with light housekeeping duties related to patient care, such as tidying up the patient’s room, changing linens, and maintaining cleanliness.
• Prepare simple meals and snacks for the patient according to dietary guidelines and preferences.
• Help with medication reminders and ensure medications are taken according to the care plan (under supervision; not direct medication administration).
• Provide families and primary caregivers with respite by taking over caregiving duties, allowing them to rest and recharge.
• Communicate effectively with family members about the patient’s condition and any needs or concerns.
• Offer guidance on safety measures and assistive devices that can improve the home environment for dementia care.
• Follow personalized care plans developed by an RN to ensure each patient receives tailored and comprehensive care.
• Actively participate in ongoing training and development programs to enhance caregiving skills and knowledge about dementia care.
• Maintain a professional and compassionate demeanor at all times, demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care.

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).

Remote Type:
On-site