Home Health Aide Student Internship Respite Innovation Program

Hebrew SeniorLife employees set the highest standard in our commitment to redefine the experience of aging. With compassion, resilience, and determination, we make a difference in the lives of patients, residents, their families, and the broad senior care community every day. And they in ours as well. These life-changing connections give our work meaning and fuel our desire to advance our potential. To be all that we can be. At Hebrew SeniorLife, that’s uniquely possible. Because here we’re supported to always keep growing. And as we do, so does our collective impact.

Our benefits include:

• Excellent medical and dental benefits, available on your first day for positions over 24 hours/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

Position Summary:

Our new innovative respite care program, funded by the Alzheimer’s Association grant, is seeking dedicated pre-med or healthcare-focused students to join our team as Home Health Aides. In this role, you will receive training and certification as a Home Health Aide, and provide high-quality respite care to individuals with dementia, offering support and relief to their families and caregivers. The program is designed to provide compassionate, in-home care for individuals with dementia while offering valuable clinical experience for pre-med and healthcare-focused students. As a Home Health Aide, you will play a crucial role in supporting families and gaining hands-on experience that will prepare you for a future in healthcare.

Responsibilities:

1. Complete in-person training and certification process for home health aide, provided by Hebrew SeniorLife(2 full days, available on weekends)
2. 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
3. Provide personal care services to patients as prescribed by the physician and in compliance with the state's nurse practice act, Federal Regulations and any other regulations defining Massachusetts’s Home Health Aide services, including:
1. Assist patients with daily living activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and mobility.
2. Provide assistance with feeding and ensuring proper hydration.
3. Help patients with light exercises as recommended by healthcare professionals to maintain mobility and strength.
4. Build rapport and provide emotional support to patients by engaging in conversations, reading, or playing simple games.
5. Encourage participation in mentally stimulating and meaningful activities tailored to the interests and abilities of the patient.
6. Accompany patients on short walks or outdoor activities as appropriate, ensuring their safety.
7. Monitor patients' physical and mental conditions, including checking vital signs if necessary, and document any changes.
8. Report any significant changes in patients' health status, behavior, or mood to the supervising nurse or care coordinator promptly.
9. Maintain accurate records of daily activities, observations, and services provided.
10. Assist with light housekeeping duties related to patient care, such as tidying up the patient’s room, changing linens, and maintaining cleanliness.
11. Prepare simple meals and snacks for the patient according to dietary guidelines and preferences.
12. Help with medication reminders and ensure medications are taken according to the care plan (under supervision; not involving direct medication administration).
13. Provide families and primary caregivers with respite by taking over caregiving duties, allowing them to rest and recharge.
14. Communicate effectively with family members about the patient’s condition and any needs or concerns.
15. Offer guidance on safety measures and assistive devices that can improve the home environment for dementia care.
16. Follow personalized care plans developed by RN to ensure each patient receives tailored and comprehensive care.
17. Actively participate in ongoing training and development programs to enhance caregiving skills and knowledge about dementia care.
18. Maintain a professional and compassionate demeanor at all times, demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care.

• 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)