About the Client:
We're seeking a compassionate caregiver for a 70-year-old woman living with dementia in New Edinburgh, Ottawa. She lives at home with her devoted husband, who has been her primary caregiver for the past five years. While he's doing an excellent job maintaining routines and structure, the family recognizes he needs support to prevent burnout and maintain his own wellbeing. The client is reserved, introverted, and experiences anxiety when her husband is away. She's independent with mobility and personal care but benefits from gentle prompts and redirection due to cognitive changes. The home environment is calm and structured, with established routines that work well.
Responsibilities:
Provide companionship and supervision while the primary caregiver takes time for his own activities. Engage the client in light household tasks cooperatively, helping her maintain a sense of independence and purpose. This may include involving her in laundry, light tidying, or simple activities she can participate in with guidance. Accompany her on short walks around the block with their small dog if appropriate. Provide memory prompts and gentle redirection as needed. The focus is on creating a comfortable, low-key presence that allows the client to feel safe and supported while respecting her quiet, reserved nature.
What We're Looking For:
A calm, patient caregiver who can build trust slowly and respect the client's introverted personality. French-speaking ability is strongly preferred, as the client will be more comfortable communicating in French. Experience with dementia care and understanding of cognitive support strategies is essential. We're particularly interested in nursing students (3rd or 4th year) or PSWs who bring gentle energy without being overly bubbly or overwhelming. Someone who can work cooperatively rather than taking over tasks, allowing the client to participate at her own pace. Reliability and consistency are crucial as the family builds this new routine.
Schedule:
Twice weekly visits, 3 hours per shift (6 hours total per week). Flexible scheduling in New Edinburgh, Ottawa. The initial visits will include time with the primary caregiver present to facilitate introductions and help the client adjust to the new arrangement. This is a gradual introduction approach, with potential to increase hours as needs evolve.
