Direct Support Aide
Description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:  


Advocacy:  Assists the people we serve to achieve their personal goals as much as possible; works with them to overcome barriers; helps them participate in activities they choose; respects all their personal beliefs, choices, and interests.


Health Maintenance and Safety:  Assists in maintain a safe environment for all the people we serve and follows all specialized care plans in accordance with the ISP (Individual Service Plan); provides care and assistance to promote good health and a healthy lifestyle in accordance with the ISP and physician’s instructions; assists in recording information regarding health events, conditions, and status; assists in providing First Aid/CPR and seeks emergency medical care whenever required.


Personal Care:  In accordance with the ISP, supports our clients as needed with administering personal cares which may include eating, grooming, dressing, bathing, and toileting; assists with mobility including lifting them from seated or lying down positions with the use of adaptive equipment as needed; may assist them with walking and maintaining stability. 


Living Skills Development:  In accordance with the ISP, provides support by teaching skills that foster independence and community integration.  Such skills may include: cooking, money management, household shopping, laundry, personal hygiene, etc.; supports the client in maintaining their home and accessing activities in the community; supports their spiritual enrichment choices; records progress of their skill development and achievements.  


Behavioral Development:  Serves as a role model and mentor, demonstrating desired behaviors and coaching by using approved techniques and strategies; in accordance with the ISP may use approved physical intervention techniques when necessary to ensure everyone’s safety.  Must be able to work as part of a team to achieve positive outcomes for the client and programs.


Operational Support:  Maintains cleanliness of the program area and/or home by performing housekeeping duties such as cleaning, washing clothes and dishes, maintaining cleanliness of the program vehicle, basic maintenance of the outside house appearance; completes tasks beyond the clients’ abilities, follows all policies & procedures for handling money.


Professional Behavior:  Acts in a professional manner; supports the mission and vision of the organization; adheres to all organizational policies and procedures; completes all training programs and requirements; attends required meetings; performs other job duties as assigned