Home Care Companion in Wilmette

FirstLight Home Care•Wilmette, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Home Care Companion provides non-medical companion care to clients in their residences and outside the home as needed. The role supports clients in maximizing their independence and reaching their potential at home, while following the established Service Plan or Care Plan and maintaining confidentiality. This position involves caring for a client with dementia and requires patience and tact when navigating care needs. The schedule begins with at least two days per week, minimally Monday and Friday, and may grow to include additional days and weekends as the family becomes comfortable with the caregiver. Hours may also increase. The position includes companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, recreational activities, shopping assistance, transportation, reminders to take medication, and assistance with instrumental activities of daily living. The Companion documents services, activities, and behaviors, follows company policies and procedures, complies with HIPAA, and uses the required time-management system for clocking in and out. Compensation is $20.00–$25.00 per hour.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, or one to three months of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge of housekeeping activities and cooking, with attention to dietary recommendations.
Ability to interact effectively with clients, families, and the care team.
State-required certifications may be required.
Valid driver’s license and valid auto insurance must be maintained.
Ability to read and understand short instructions, correspondence, and memos.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to present information effectively in one-on-one and small-group situations.
Ability to evaluate situations and make complex decisions using critical thinking and reasoning.
Reliability, compassion, patience, and tact, including when supporting a client with dementia.
Ability to keep client information confidential.

Responsibilities

Offer meaningful companionship, including light housekeeping, meal preparation, recreational activities, shopping assistance, and transportation.
Follow the established Service Plan or Care Plan and assist with clients’ non-medical needs and instrumental activities of daily living.
Remind clients to take medications.
Work with the care team to document services delivered, activities, and behaviors according to company policies and procedures.
Use the required time-management system to clock in and out when reporting for and leaving work.
Adhere to HIPAA regulations.
Participate in quality assurance reviews and evaluations when requested.
Stay current with changing technology, including software programs.
Uphold, support, and promote company policies and procedures.