Time Together Student Worker (Remote Required) ID-4983

December 27, 2024

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

Job Description Summary

The Student Worker position is through the Penn Memory Center's Time Together Program, an IN-PERSON program in which students provide engagement to older Philadelphians IN THEIR HOMES while offering respite to their family caregivers. This program has three primary aims: to improve mood and reduce isolation for older adults; to reduce stress for caregivers and to expose college students to work in the aging sector and to learn about gerontology and memory loss. Students must be in greater Philadelphia to participate in this program. Some of the older adults in this program will be experiencing mild to moderate-stage dementia. In this role, students will serve as companions by engaging in conversation, playing games, going for a walk, or doing other activities that the older person enjoys. Student companionship prevents social isolation and improves the quality of life for their older adult matches while giving their family caregivers a break. Students will be paid $10.00 per hour for their participation. Check out our website for more information! Time Together Respite Program - Penn Memory Center.

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Essential Functions

Provide caring companionship/engagement to older adults between 4-10 hours per week.
Develop or implement activities (talking, reading, playing games,listening to music, etc.) designed to provide mental stimulation and reduce social isolation.
Attendthe mandatoryvirtual two-parttraining.
Maintain timely attendanceand communicate schedule changes with caregivers or older adults.
Maintain accurate time logs and provide information in a timely matter to the program staff.
Communicate with caregivers and program staff to address all preferences and concerns regarding respite care and the care receiver.

General Requirements

Must be a current college student in the greaterPhiladelphiaareawith a proven track record of academic success.
Ability toengage with an older adult in person in the older adult's home.
Complete the required Criminal Background Clearance.
Experience working with older adults, including those with dementia and similar illnesses is preferred.
For those without experience, the willingness to learn, listen, adapt, and demonstrate patience in respite care is required.