About the Client:
We are seeking a compassionate and reliable caregiver for an 88-year-old woman in Peterborough who is preparing to return home from the hospital after an extended stay. She has undergone three major surgeries since Christmas, including a hip replacement after a hospital-related fall that went undetected for two weeks. Despite these physical challenges, she remains 100% cognitively sharp with no signs of dementia. She is determined to stay in her own home and maintain as much independence as possible. She is a sweet, pleasant person who is well-loved by hospital staff, though she can be a bit too independent at times, which has led to falls. She is very hard of hearing, so clear communication and patience are essential.
Responsibilities:
- Assist with morning routine: getting her up, dressed, and settled for the day
- Support with bathing and personal hygiene
- Help with mobility using walker or wheelchair
- Encourage and assist with rehabilitation exercises and walking to maintain strength
- Prepare meals and ensure proper nutrition throughout the day
- Light housekeeping including laundry, tidying kitchens and bathrooms, and linen changes
- Provide supervision for safety to prevent falls
- Assist with evening routine: preparing for bed and ensuring she is safe and comfortable overnight
- Communicate regularly with family members about her condition and any concerns
What We're Looking For:
- Experience working with seniors, particularly those recovering from surgery or hospital stays
- Comfortable supporting someone with significant mobility challenges who uses a walker or wheelchair
- Patient and skilled in working with individuals who are hard of hearing
- Calm, reliable, and brings positive energy to the home
- Takes initiative and can work independently while keeping family informed
- Strong personal care skills including bathing and dressing assistance
- Ability to encourage rehabilitation exercises and promote independence
- Excellent communication skills with both the client and her family
- Understanding that the client values her independence and needs gentle encouragement rather than being overly directive
Schedule:
Daily support is needed, likely 10-25 hours per week. The family is flexible on exact timing but anticipates needing help primarily in the mornings to get her up and started for the day, and in the evenings to help her prepare for bed. The schedule may start with more intensive support and adjust as she regains strength and independence. A walk-in shower with seating is being installed to make bathing easier. The family will be closely involved during the first two weeks after discharge to help establish routines, then the caregiver will take on more independent responsibility. There is a tenant downstairs who can assist in emergencies and has agreed to keep the basement door unlocked for safety purposes.
