Companion/Respite Care Provider

Consumer Direct Care Network•Madison, WI

8d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a heartwarming opportunity for compassionate providers who love making a difference! We work with members throughout Wisconsin to find providers that fit each of their needs. Our goal is to help individuals be in more control of their own supports and to have a say in who is assisting them. This helps them to stay in their own homes as long as possible. A creative, friendly woman is seeking a Companion Care/Respite Care Provider to spend meaningful time with her each week. Now retired, she spent her career in state government, non-profits, and politics focused on equality. She is also a lifelong artist, an avid reader, a Harvard graduate, and a genuinely curious person who enjoys a good conversation and a good laugh. The client is respectful and easy to be around, though she sometimes needs gentle persuasion to get on with an activity. She listens well, connects ideas across topics, and can discuss art, politics, feminism, and other topics in depth; though she sometimes can’t remember what she just did. She enjoys the role of consultant and teacher as they are skills required in her previous positions as an administrator. Once she knows you, expect the occasional snarky joke. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys verbal, intellectually engaged companionship alongside hands-on care — someone comfortable holding a conversation about abstract art one moment and gently redirecting the next.

Requirements

18 years of age or older.
High school diploma or GED.
At least 1 year of experience working with people with dementia.
Verifiable provider references (professional and personal).
Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, comprehensive auto insurance, and a clean driving record.
Enough space in your vehicle or trunk to fit a collapsible walker for some outings.
Willingness to complete a background check.

Nice To Haves

Formal education and training about dementia caregiving.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or other related credentials.

Responsibilities

Lead physical therapy stretches and exercises.
Prepare light meals and snacks, and prompt the client to drink water and eat.
Perform light cleaning, cleaning projects, or sorting.
Complete daily log and food log.
Provide personal cares as needed.
Engage in conversation about her life and yours, shared interests, and new ideas.
Conduct virtual museum tours and research future art activities or outings.
Participate in art-making activities like drawing or watercolor painting.
Assist with written or spoken English if beneficial or enjoyable for you.
Bake from box mixes.
Run errands such as grocery shopping or getting a haircut.
Complete a half-hour walk around the block.
Facilitate time for her to read aloud to you.