Supported Living Assistant

Sunnyside Home is a long-term care home owned by the Region of Waterloo in the Stanley Park area of Kitchener. Our 263 residents are part of a vibrant community in a park-like setting on a campus of services for older adults.

We offer a warm, friendly atmosphere with modern amenities and quality care. Making sure that each person can live their best life is important to us.

Why work for us?

The Region of Waterloo is one of the area's largest employers. Our commitment to service, integrity, respect, collaboration and innovation creates an inclusive workplace where employees feel valued for the difference they make every day.

**The Role**:
Assists supported living tenants to live as independently as possible in a safe, supportive community living environment by providing daily living care, mealtime assistance, and medication support.

**Description of Duties**:

- Assists tenants with daily living (e.g., personal hygiene routines, day-to-day activities, housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, community activities), and as requested/directed (e.g., dressing/undressing, safety checks, showering/bathing, toileting, bed-making). Assists with other activities as assigned by supervisor (e.g., social events, exercises, shopping).
- Responds to call bells and unplanned requests from tenants. Determines/assesses if emergency supports are required, including calling 911 or emergency contacts.
- Performs light and deep cleaning in tenant apartments and common areas (e.g., utility and storage areas, kitchenettes, cupboards, bathrooms, lounges, laundry room, offices, garbage room).
- Assists with meal service. Sets up tables. Takes and places meal orders per diet requirements and preferences (and discusses with food services staff). Distributes meals. Clears/cleans tables, dining room, and dishes.
- Attends case conferences with other service providers as required.
- Maintains tenant records and documentation, including observations of behaviours and concerns. Monitors and reports changes in behaviours and medical conditions, and reviews daily case notes and records to stay informed.
- Responds to and addresses tenant concerns, using de-escalation techniques to respond to reactive behaviours. Reports to supervisor or nursing staff immediately if follow-up is required. Initiates after-hours emergency response measures for the building and tenants as required.
- Answers telephones and takes messages/refers callers after hours.
- Books and sets up rooms for special events or functions as required.
- Provides short-term support for tenants returning from hospital, post-injury, pre
- or post-surgery, or waiting for long-term care.
- Provides overnight response to Integrated Assisted Living Program clients on the Sunnyside Campus, with security guard. Assesses situations and calls for emergency medical support as needed.
- Follows prescribed role in building fire plan activities.
- Performs related duties as assigned.

**Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required**:

- Knowledge and skill in assisting tenants with daily living activities, acquired through a Grade 12 education with additional training and experience in health care or community social services.
- Knowledge of and ability to comply with policies, procedures, infection control practices, and related legislation (e.g., privacy, health and safety). Ability to participate in on-the-job training.
- Understanding of the geriatric population and ability to provide support to clients with diverse needs, including those with mental health conditions.
- A tuberculosis (TB) test and annual influenza immunization are required.
- Must possess and maintain valid certification in Emergency First Aid, CPR, and Safe Food Handling.
- Organizational, time management, and problem solving skills to work independently, comply with schedules, prioritize tasks, and complete work in a timely manner.
- Human relations and communication skills to respond pleasantly and professionally to demands; communicate clearly and supportively with tenants, their families, and other staff; report health and safety observations and concerns to supervisor or nursing staff; de-escalate situations; and participate as an effective team member.
- Computer skills with ability to use an electronic health record.
- Must provide an acceptable vulnerable sector police check.
- Ability to work day, evening, night, weekend, and statutory holiday hours. Ability to work alone during the night shift.
- Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.

We thank all applicants in advance; however, we will be corresponding only with those selected for an interview.

The Region of Waterloo is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. At the Region, we respect, encourage, and celebrate our diversity. The Region of Waterloo is committed to providing accommodations throughout the recruitment process. If you require an accommodation, please notify us and we