Occupational Therapist – Nursing Home
Occupational Therapist – Nursing Home
Job Summary:
The Occupational Therapist in this nursing home setting will work with elderly residents to promote independence, improve quality of life, and restore daily living and working skills. They will design and implement rehabilitation plans for residents with a variety of conditions such as arthritis, stroke recovery, dementia, Parkinson’s, and physical injuries. The OT will also work closely with family members, caregivers, and the nursing home staff to ensure the best possible care is provided.
Key Responsibilities:
- Resident Evaluation and Treatment Planning:
- Assess residents’ physical, cognitive, and emotional status.
- Develop individualized therapy plans aimed at restoring functionality, promoting independence, and preventing further disability.
- Evaluate the need for adaptive equipment and environmental modifications.
- Therapeutic Interventions:
- Design and implement therapeutic activities tailored to residents’ needs to improve fine and gross motor skills, cognitive abilities, and sensory processing.
- Provide hand therapy, mobility exercises, and training in activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, grooming, eating, and toileting.
- Support residents with memory care issues such as Alzheimer’s and dementia using strategies to enhance recall and coping skills.
- Collaboration and Consultation:
- Work with the nursing home’s interdisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, physical therapists, and social workers, to coordinate comprehensive care.
- Educate family members and caregivers on safe handling techniques, adaptive tools, and exercises to assist with home care and post-discharge support.
- Engage with residents’ family members to discuss progress, treatment options, and any required changes in care plans.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain up-to-date records of residents’ progress and therapy outcomes.
- Prepare detailed reports for physicians, insurance providers, and regulatory bodies as required.
- Ensure compliance with all nursing home, local, and national health regulations.
- Resident and Caregiver Education:
- Train nursing home staff on the safe use of mobility devices and adaptive equipment.
- Develop educational materials and conduct group sessions on fall prevention, joint protection, and energy conservation.
- Offer guidance on ergonomics and techniques to help residents engage in leisure activities and personal interests.
- Adaptive Equipment Management:
- Recommend and fit wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices.
- Instruct residents and staff on the proper use of adaptive equipment to improve functionality and ensure safety.
- Mental and Emotional Well-being Support:
- Assist in maintaining mental health through activities that boost cognitive function and social interaction, such as puzzles, memory games, and group exercises.
- Help manage stress, anxiety, and depression among residents by creating a calming, supportive environment.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy.
- Must be CORU registered
- Minimum 1-2 years of experience working with geriatric populations, preferably in a long-term care or nursing home setting.
- Skills:
- Strong understanding of geriatric conditions such as dementia, arthritis, stroke recovery, and mobility impairments.
- Proficiency in developing therapy plans and utilizing adaptive equipment.
- Excellent communication skills to work with residents, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
- Patience, compassion, and the ability to motivate elderly residents.
- Strong documentation and organizational skills.
To apply click below or contact jreid@medforce.ie
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