Community Services Navigator / Gerontologist

Reports to: Clinical Supervisor | FLSA Status: Non-exempt

About Us

Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging (WRAAA) is a private non-profit corporation, organized and designated by the State of Ohio to be the planning, coordinating and administrative agency for federal and state aging programs in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Medina Counties. It is one of twelve Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in the state organized together with local service provider organizations and the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) to form the state's public aging services network. The network works together to create opportunities for older Ohioans to receive needed home and community services and supports; and to age successfully in their own homes and communities.

Candidates we love

• Self-motivated and compassionate individuals looking to be part of a Best-in-Class organization
• Team players who are committed to providing superior service to all they serve
• Enthusiastic professionals excited to grow with an organization that values dedication, innovation and collaboration

What Our Staff Loves About Us

• A competitive salary
• A generous six-week PTO program with thirteen paid holidays
• A $750.00 investment in professional development through a substantial, annual training funds allotment
• A 401K program with a company match
• Medical, Dental, Vision Benefits options
• Mileage reimbursement
• Free parking and more

About the role

The Navigator supports the interdisciplinary team under supervision of a licensed professional to coordinate comprehensive, person-centered care for older adults receiving home health and community-based services. This entry-level role leverages gerontology knowledge to evaluate needs, connect clients with appropriate services (including WRAAA programs), educate patients and families, and monitor progress toward aging-in-place goals.

Responsibilities

• Supports intake and evaluation of needs determinations for older adults and individuals with disabilities in home health and community settings under supervision.
• Support implementation of individualized care plans within the care team.
• Research & collaborate on service options across disciplines (nursing, therapy, social work, home health aides, DME, transportation, meal programs, and community resources).
• Connect clients with WRAAA programs and other community resources (information and assistance, caregiver support, nutrition services, transportation, etc.).
• Schedule and track visits, follow-ups, and transitions of care; escalate changes to the supervising licensed professional as needed.
• Provide patient and family resources and education on disease management, medication adherence, safety, and available resources.
• Document activities and observations in the electronic health record (EHR); ensure HIPAA compliance.
• Communicate effectively with physicians, payers, and care team members; participate in care conferences.
• Identify safety concerns and barriers to care; coordinate timely mitigation strategies under supervision.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of local resources, eligibility criteria, and home health benefits.
• Support reporting, quality improvement initiatives, and performance metrics as directed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Gerontology or a closely related field (new graduates encouraged to apply).
• 1+ year of experience in elder care, home health, social services, case management, or related settings (internships or practicum in gerontology acceptable).
• No independent licensure required to perform Navigator duties; clinical tasks performed under supervision.
• CPR/First Aid Certification Preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within service area.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; patient- and family-centered approach.
• Assessment, organizational, and time-management abilities.
• Empathy, cultural sensitivity, and ability to work with diverse older adult populations.
• Basic knowledge of gerontology concepts and aging-in-place strategies.
• Proficiency with EHR and common software/tools.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
• Basic problem-solving and prioritization skills.

Schedule

Typical daytime hours; occasional evenings/weekends; on-call rotation as assigned.

Work Environment and Travel

• Home health visits and community-based settings; variable home environments.
• Regular travel within the service area; reliable transportation required.