Home Care Health Worker

About the role

The Institute on Aging (IOA) is looking for a Health Worker to provide direct services to frail elders in their homes, under the direction and supervision of the Home Care Department. The program serves all districts of San Francisco and runs seven days a week, so a flexible schedule is required, including some weekend work.

Key responsibilities

• Provide personal care and assistance in participants' homes, helping them stay safe and comfortable at home
• Homemaker service, personal care (colostomy care, bathing, peri-care, mouth, skin and hair care), eating assistance, toileting and ambulation
• Laundry, shopping, glucose tests, blood pressure checks and collection of urine, sputum and other samples
• Escort clients to and from medical appointments
• Support with behavioral and emotional needs, such as reality orientation and reminders about nursing, medical care and diet restrictions
• Assist in centers or clinics, meal preparation and special diets, and special programs like recreation or rehabilitation exercise programs
• Keep care areas clean and safe, report on participant progress, keep statistical records and attend staff meetings
• Help train and orient new workers and volunteers, and promote good relations with participants, families and the community

Required profile

• At least one year of experience working with older adults, paid or unpaid
• Ability to lift, transfer, push or pull, maneuver and reposition 35 lbs, and to reach, bend and walk
• Five-finger dexterity
• Clear spoken and written English, and ability to understand complex written material and verbal instructions
• Willingness to work in a multilingual, multicultural environment and in an interdisciplinary team

Desired qualifications

• Certified Nursing Assistant training and current certification
• Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Korean or Chinese language ability
• Knowledge of the community served

Pay range: $20-$23 per hour, depending on experience, client needs and other factors.