ALZ Companions InternAt — Alzheimer's San Diego

Position Description

ALZ Companions Interns provide companionship, socialization, and supervision for individuals with dementia, allowing their care partners to enjoy a break. Interns also attend and participate in Alzheimer’s San Diego programs; help with a special project or research; and raise awareness via social media. All of these activities are designed to provide interns with a robust opportunity to learn about Alzheimer’s and related dementias and how a nonprofit organization serves the dementia community.

Responsibilities:

• Follow policies and procedures set forth by Alzheimer’s San Diego
• Maintain professionalism and reliability, recognizing interns represent Alzheimer’s San Diego to the community
• Provide companionship to the client, including conversing, reading, taking walks and watching movies
• Work with the care partner and client to identify appropriate activities that will beenjoyable
• Stay alert to changes in the condition of the client
• Ensure safety at all times
• Pay attention to and follow specific instructions as provided by the primary care
• partner, unless inappropriate
• Have the ability to handle an emergency situation and know when to contact the
• proper authorities, such as 911 or Alzheimer’s San Diego staff
• Submit weekly visit logs/reflections in order to document activities or changes in the
• physical or mental condition of the client or primary care

Learning Objectives and Outcomes

• Students will learn how dementia affects the individual diagnosed, as well as the family care partners
• Students will learn the socioeconomic challenges that come with a dementia diagnosis, and the stigma that is often associated with the diagnosis
• Students will be given a strong foundation in dementia knowledge and will be trained to use practical tools for successful communication with the diagnosed individual
• Students will challenge themselves and grow, and will acquire new skills, experience and community contacts.
• Students will gain experience that can help inform choices for a future career in the fields of psychology, human development, social work, gerontology, and sociology.

Desired Qualifications

• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Caring, patient and compassionate
• Ability to respond to an emergency situation without panic
• Experience working with persons with dementia a plus, but not required

Length of Position: One Semester or more

Is this a paid opportunity? No

Application Instructions 

• Apply via this link: https://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/ap?AP=671548580
• Complete forms, training workbook, TB test and online training