About the Client:
We're seeking a compassionate caregiver for a woman with dementia living in long-term care at Thornton Mills in Whitby. While the facility manages all medical and dietary needs, the family wants to supplement institutional care with personalized one-on-one companionship and engagement that the home cannot provide. She remains mobile and capable of walking, though her overall ability is declining. She experiences significant hearing challenges and wears hearing aids that must be managed carefully during visits. She responds best to confident, directive communication rather than open-ended questions—telling her "let's go for a walk" works much better than asking if she'd like to go.
Responsibilities:
- Provide engaging companionship through conversation, walks, puzzles, and basic stretching or movement activities
- Manage hearing aids by placing them in upon arrival and returning them to the charging station before leaving
- Ensure appropriate dressing for weather conditions (she tends to layer excessively regardless of temperature)
- Monitor and manage laundry by ensuring dirty clothes go into the laundry basket rather than being hung back up in the closet
- Engage her in her reality without correction or confrontation—meet her where she is with patience and understanding
- Lead activities confidently and directly rather than offering choices that may result in refusal
What We're Looking For:
- Proven experience working with individuals with dementia, particularly in long-term care settings
- Ability to communicate clearly and loudly enough to be understood without being condescending
- Patient, calm demeanor with strong understanding of dementia care best practices including redirection and memory prompts
- Comfortable taking initiative and leading activities confidently
- Female caregiver preferred for personal care assistance and client comfort
- Fluent English speaker
- Someone who makes the client feel comfortable while respecting her dignity
Schedule:
Flexible scheduling with visits needed a few times per week (starting with 2 visits weekly). Each visit should be at least 2 hours. Preferred timing is mid-morning (9:00-11:00 AM) or mid-afternoon (2:00-4:00 PM) to avoid meal times. Days and exact times can be discussed to find mutual availability.
