Personal Support Worker (PSW) / Live-In Caregiver for Senior with Dementia
Position Overview
We are seeking a compassionate, patient, trustworthy, and experienced Personal Support Worker (PSW) to provide one-on-one care and companionship for a senior living with dementia.
The ideal candidate will have experience caring for seniors with dementia or similar cognitive conditions and understand the importance of maintaining a calm, safe, respectful, and familiar environment.
Because the senior can be particular and may take time to become comfortable with new people, we are looking for someone who is patient, gentle, understanding, and willing to build trust gradually.
Key Responsibilities
Personal Care
- Assist with activities of daily living, including bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting as needed.
- Assist with mobility and transfers when required.
- Provide reminders and assistance with medications according to the family's instructions and care plan.
- Monitor general well-being and report any significant changes to the family.
Dementia Care & Companionship
- Provide patient, respectful, and reassuring companionship.
- Assist with maintaining a consistent daily routine.
- Engage the senior in appropriate conversations and simple activities.
- Provide gentle redirection and reassurance during periods of confusion, anxiety, or agitation.
- Use a calm and respectful approach when communicating with the senior.
Meal Preparation & Household Assistance
- Prepare nutritious meals and snacks according to dietary preferences or requirements.
- Encourage adequate food and fluid intake.
- Assist with light housekeeping related to the senior's care, including laundry, changing linens, tidying the bedroom and common areas, and keeping the living environment safe and organized.
- Assist with grocery shopping or errands related to the senior's needs when required.
Safety & Supervision
- Provide appropriate supervision to help prevent falls, wandering, or other safety concerns.
- Accompany the senior to appointments, walks, or activities when needed.
- Maintain a safe and comfortable home environment.
- Communicate promptly with the family regarding concerns, changes in behavior, or changes in the senior's condition.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Previous experience working with seniors and/or individuals with dementia is strongly preferred.
- PSW certification or equivalent caregiving experience is an asset.
- CPR/First Aid certification is preferred.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Patient, compassionate, reliable, and trustworthy.
- Comfortable working with a senior who may initially be hesitant or particular around unfamiliar caregivers.
- Able to follow the family's care instructions and established routines.
- References and relevant work experience required.
- Background check may be requested.
Live-In Arrangement
This is a live-in position. The caregiver will have access to private living accommodations within the home.
The position is intended for someone who is comfortable providing dedicated care while also respecting the senior's privacy, independence, and personal space.
Please note: Live-in accommodation does not mean the caregiver is expected to be actively working 24 hours a day. Specific working hours, responsibilities, rest periods, days off, and compensation will be discussed and agreed upon with the selected candidate.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for someone who is:
- Patient and gentle
- Warm and compassionate
- Trustworthy and dependable
- Experienced with dementia care
- Respectful of the senior's routines and preferences
- Comfortable working independently
- Good at communicating with family members
- Able to remain calm and reassuring in challenging situations
- Willing to take the time necessary to build a trusting relationship
