Engagement Assistant

About the job

IOA is on the forefront of revolutionary healthcare models, reshaping the way people can age in place. Our innovative models transform lives, enhance communities, and save healthcare systems millions of dollars. Rather than focusing on archaic outdated design, we strive to consistently question the “status-quo” and create new and more innovative ways to help aging adults and adults with disabilities maintain their quality of life.

With over 23 programs, we offer multiple ways to aid seniors maintain their health, well-being, independence and participation in the community, fulfilling our mission.
Institute on Aging’s Enrichment Center in the Presidio is home to our Adult Day Program and is seeking a compassionate individual to support our diverse group of participants living with dementia or other forms of cognitive or physical impairment.

• Provide direct support and supervision to clients in the adult day program. Facilitate and assist with planned and spontaneous activities and provide participants with emotional support, personal care, and dining assistance utilizing the principles of choice, dignity, privacy, and independence. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: ​
• Under the direction of the Engagement Coordinator, and Senior Program Manager facilitate large and small group activities designed to stimulate older adults with dementia; provide dynamic and engaging presentations and hands-on activities that support client interest and abilities
• Provide behavioral and emotional support and supervision for clients through companionship, conversation, distraction and redirection
• Work in coordination with the assigned driver to assist Members with safe boarding and exiting of program vehicles, ensuring comfort, dignity, and safety at all times.
• Partner with Members and the Program Manager to develop and carry out individualized service plans, reflecting each Member’s preferences, strengths, and evolving needs.
• Successfully complete and apply required training modules, including those grounded in the Best Friends™ (David Troxel) Approach and other person-centered dementia care practices.
• Provide calm, compassionate, and reassuring support to Members who may experience anxiety, distress, or responsive behaviors, maintaining a respectful and emotionally safe environment.
• Collaborate in the creation, adaptation, and facilitation of meaningful engagement programming that honors Members’ life histories, abilities, interests, and cultural identities.
• Apply strong, practical knowledge of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and related conditions to support Members across varying stages of cognitive change with empathy and skill.
• Respond skillfully to responsive behaviors using non-pharmacological, person-centered strategies that prioritize dignity, autonomy, and emotional well-being.
• Observe and communicate changes in Members’ mood, behavior, engagement, or functional abilities to the Program Manager and interdisciplinary team to support responsive, Member-centered care planning.
• Build trusting, respectful relationships with Members and their families, contributing to a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive program environment.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and leadership to continuously enhance the Member experience, incorporating best practices in dementia care and ongoing feedback.
• Provide assistance with ambulation, transfers and toileting
• Monitor the safety and welfare of clients through close observation and interaction; adhere to program policies and safety check schedules
• Encourage clients to participate in individual, small and large group activities; provide appropriate cuing and support based on client’s functional ability
• Serve and accommodate clients during meal and snack times; assist with feeding as needed and follow specific food policies regarding proper food handling and storage
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of adult day program environment at all times
• Regularly report on client status and change of condition to Program Manager
• Greet and direct family members, prospects, volunteers and other visitors to the appropriate staff
• Maintain client confidentiality and privacy
• Practice Standard Precautions, proper infection control and safe work practices
• Participate in staff meetings and complete required trainings
• Other duties as assigned

• BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE:
• At least one year experience working with persons with dementia and/or other special needs, or equivalent experience
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work well on a team and effectively communicate with colleagues, clients, and visitors.
• Ability to maintain calm and composure when presented with clients who are experiencing anxiety and /or challenging behaviors
• Demonstrated experience serving older adults living with dementia, including those who may at times exhibit responsive or complex behaviors.
• Completion of dementia-specific training, such as:
• David Troxel’s Best Friends™ Approach , and/or other recognized dementia care education (e.g., Teepa Snow / Positive Approach to Care, Alzheimer’s Association programs, Dementia Care Specialist coursework) preferred .
• Strong interpersonal, observational, and communication skills, with the ability to attune to Members’ verbal and non-verbal cues and adapt support accordingly.
• High degree of empathy, professionalism, and sound judgment in dynamic, relationship-based care settings.
• Strong presentation skills with the ability to facilitate dynamic and engaging group activities.
• Passion and drive for helping others.

• Education
• College degree (BA) preferred, with coursework in psychology, social services, gerontology, or a related field.

• PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. and transfer up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to reach, bend and walk

Institute on Aging reserves the right to revise job descriptions or work hours as required.