Memory Care Coordinator

About the Role

The Cornerstone Leader is responsible for the proper execution and monitoring of all components of the Cornerstone program, ensuring the general well-being of memory care residents through high-quality services that comply with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. This role exhibits a passion for serving seniors and contributes to a positive, holistic environment. The Cornerstone Leader oversees the Cornerstone Memory Support Program, ensuring residents are cared for holistically using self-directed living and the program’s seven guiding principles: compassionate, trained team members; vibrancy; meaningful relationships; ability-focused; LifeStory; resident/family engagement; and comfortable, familiar home.

The Leader serves as a liaison between residents, family members, nurses, nursing assistants, therapists, physicians, mental health consultants, dietitians, and programming/activity staff to ensure a coordinated approach to care.

Responsibilities

• Support the Mission, Values, and Vision of LifeSpire of Virginia, The Chesapeake, and the Cornerstone Program.
• Serve as the primary liaison between residents, families, and team members.
• Implement and monitor each component of the Cornerstone Program based on its guiding principles.
• Ensure completion of the LifeStory by family members and use this information to develop personalized care and programming.
• Assist in developing a plan of care that fully captures the individual needs of residents.
• Participate in hiring team members for the memory care neighborhood as directed by the Assisted Living Administrator.
• Provide initial and ongoing training regarding the Cornerstone Program to all new and existing team members.
• Work closely with all disciplines to ensure compliance with the program.
• Develop or ensure the development of program offerings that meet the needs of residents across all stages of dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease.
• Collaborate with the Memory Care Nurse Manager to plan, implement, coordinate, and evaluate therapeutic recreational activities for residents, including weekends and evenings.
• Meet with the culinary team and registered dietitian to review menus, meal times, and other nutritional needs to ensure personalization.
• Coordinate with outside organizations to develop partnerships that enhance resident experiences and programs.
• Conduct pre-admission assessments in conjunction with the Assisted Living Administrator or designee.
• Lead move-in processes, including assisting families with transition plans, coordinating all aspects of the move-in, and following up with families post-move-in.
• Coordinate level of care transfers as needed.
• Develop and maintain ISPs, UAIs, Fall, and Risk assessments for all memory care residents, including resident-centered programming.
• Identify trends in resident care and develop plans for corrective action.
• Lead monthly care meetings with families and the interdisciplinary team, ensuring follow-up on issues discussed.
• Participate in resident programming and ensure all team members are engaged.
• Maintain regular communication with family members.
• Attend care plan meetings when residents are in skilled nursing facilities to assist with transitions back to the memory neighborhood.
• Conduct regular environmental rounds to ensure the neighborhood and resident apartments promote comfort, security, and safety.
• Ensure implementation of federal/state regulations and community policies and procedures in the Cornerstone neighborhood.
• Develop and/or revise Cornerstone policies and procedures.
• Maintain professional competence through continuing education.
• Follow all personnel policies and procedures, including those related to breaks, meal periods, and PTO.
• Maintain thorough job knowledge of residents’ rights, fire and disaster plans, problem-solving procedures, and community policy manuals.
• Maintain a calming space for residents who become overstimulated.
• Coordinate Alzheimer’s Walk and other social accountability-related events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Related degree or experience in the memory care field (e.g., Licensed Practical Nurse, Registered Nurse, recreational therapy, occupational therapy, social work, behavioral health, or Bachelor’s Degree in a related field).
• 2 years of experience providing services for residents with cognitive impairment and/or leading a memory care or assisted living neighborhood preferred.
• Knowledge of the disease process, changes associated with dementia, and adaptive strategies to maintain residents’ abilities.
• Strong leadership qualities, including a compassionate and positive demeanor.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to problem-solve and address challenging resident behaviors.
• Ability to effectively supervise a diverse employee work group.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• High degree of interpersonal skills and the ability to relate effectively to a variety of people and personalities.
• Ability to maintain a positive, constructive attitude among staff and between departments.
• Certified Dementia Practitioner (required within 3 months of hire).