About the Client:
We're seeking a compassionate Russian-speaking companion for an 86-year-old woman residing at Bellair Heights long-term care home in Parry Sound. She is a former English teacher whose first language is Russian, and while she once spoke English fluently, dementia has made communication in her native language increasingly important for her comfort and engagement. She uses a walker or wheelchair for mobility and receives all medical care, personal care, and meals through the facility. This is her first time receiving dedicated companionship care, and her family has noticed she seems lonely and would benefit greatly from meaningful social interaction.
Responsibilities:
- Provide warm, engaging companionship and conversation in Russian for 2-hour visits
- Listen attentively and engage in meaningful dialogue that respects her background as an educator
- Accompany her on short outdoor walks when weather permits (10-15 minutes, as she tires easily)
- Provide cognitive support through gentle conversation and memory engagement
- Respect the facility's meal schedule (lunch at 12:15 PM) when planning visits
- Maintain clear communication with family about visit updates
What We're Looking For:
- Fluent Russian speaker (candidates from Ukraine, Serbia, Poland, or other Eastern European backgrounds who understand Russian are welcome)
- Experience in long-term care settings or with seniors living with dementia
- Calm, patient demeanor with ability to make clients feel comfortable
- Reliable and consistent with scheduled visits
- Brings positive energy and takes initiative during visits
- Strong communication skills with family members
- Familiarity with Bellair Heights or willingness to learn facility protocols
- No PSW certification required as all personal care is provided by the facility
Schedule:
Flexible schedule with 1-2 visits per week, 2 hours per visit. Any days and times work outside of facility meal times. The family is open to whatever schedule works best for the right caregiver. This is an ongoing need with potential to start immediately or within the coming weeks based on caregiver availability.
