Restorative Wellness Associate SNF

Carolina Meadows is seeking a passionate, caring, individual to support our residents in maintaining their independence through leading group and individual programs that maintain or improve physical function.

The ideal candidate will have enthusiasm for working with older adults, and experience leading fitness classes or wellness programs.

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am-5pm

Restorative Wellness Associate Responsibilities:

Duties include:

• Ambulation Training: Assist residents with walking programs to improve gait, balance, and mobility, utilizing assistive devices as needed.
• Range of Motion (ROM) Exercises: Perform passive and active ROM exercises to maintain or improve flexibility, prevent contractures, and maintain joint health.
• ADL Support: Help residents perform activities of daily living, including dressing, grooming, eating, and personal hygiene, with the goal of fostering independence.
• Transfer Training: Teach safe and effective transfer techniques using equipment like gait belts, Hoyer lifts, or transfer boards.
• Positioning and Bed Mobility: Assist residents with positioning in bed or wheelchairs to prevent pressure injuries, maintain skin integrity, and support comfort.
• Continence Program: Assist with bladder and bowel training programs, including regular toileting schedules and encouraging adequate hydration.
• Therapeutic Dining: Assist with resident feeding, using adaptive utensils, and monitoring for safe swallowing techniques.
• Cognitive Stimulation: Engage residents in cognitive exercises and memory games to maintain or enhance cognitive function and prevent cognitive decline.
• Documentation: Record and report residents' progress, including any decline in function or new needs, in the resident’s care plan. Documentation must be entered into the electronic medical record (EMR) system, MatrixCare, to ensure accurate and timely recording of care provided.
• Continence Support: Assist in continence care, providing reminders and support with toileting, and encourage hydration.
• Social and Cognitive Activities: Facilitate group activities, such as games, puzzles, and social outings to promote engagement, cognitive function, and community involvement.
• Therapeutic Restorative Groups: Lead group activities designed to enhance or maintain cognitive and social skills (e.g., art therapy, music therapy, reminiscing activities).
• Posture and Balance Support: Assist residents with posture correction during daily activities to reduce the risk of falls.
• Exercise Programs: Lead group and individual exercise sessions focusing on strength, balance, and coordination.
• Strength Training: Utilize light weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises to maintain muscle strength and tone.

Program Implementation

• Each resident will have an individualized restorative care plan developed by the interdisciplinary team.
• The Restorative Wellness Associate will conduct daily or weekly sessions with residents, based on the care plan.
• Monthly evaluations will be conducted to track progress and adjust goals accordingly.
• Collaborate with physical, occupational, and speech therapists to reinforce therapy techniques.
• Lead groups in Range of Motion exercises
• Conduct screening and assessments as needed
• Proficiency in creating reports, flyers, and data analysis through computer software.

Required Education and Experience

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license (or must obtain license within six months of hire)
• CPR certification required
• Experience in providing direct care and supporting residents in a long-term care setting
• Training in restorative care techniques and protocols
• Knowledge of equipment like walkers, gait belts, and lifts
• Strong communication skills to work with residents, families, and interdisciplinary teams
• Proficient in documenting care in the EMR system, MatrixCare, excel and word
• Works well autonomously with strong organizational skills

Preferred Education and Experience

• Preferred group exercise or personal training certification or a strong desire to obtain
• B.S. Degree in Exercise Science or related field