Dementia Care Coordinator

Job Description

Job Description

Dementia Care Coordinator Job Description Overview

Summary of the Role

The Dementia Care Coordinator plans, delivers, and monitors individualized care and programs for older adults living with dementia or other cognitive impairments. The role is central to coordinating efforts between residents/clients, their families, and a multidisciplinary team to promote safety, engagement, dignity, and quality of life.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

• Assessment and Care Planning:

• Conduct comprehensive holistic assessments of an individual's physical, emotional, and social needs.

• Develop, implement, and regularly review person-centered support plans and daily routines.

• Coordinate with physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, and other staff for integrated care.

• Support and Advocacy:

• Provide direct emotional and practical support and guidance to individuals living with dementia.

• Offer compassionate support, resources, and counseling to family members and caregivers, including support group facilitation.

• Act as a liaison and advocate between the individual, their family, and various healthcare and community services.

• Program Management & Staff Support:

• Plan, direct, and coordinate enrichment activities and programs tailored to the cognitive and recreational needs of residents in memory care.

• Provide specialized training and coaching to direct care staff on best practices for dementia care (e.g., behavioral response, communication, validation therapy).

• Supervise, direct, and evaluate the performance of care staff (e.g., Resident Care Associates, Medication Assistants).

• Clinical and Administrative Duties:

• Monitor and document changes in a resident's mood, behavior, or health status.

• Work to mitigate risks, reduce crisis situations, and minimize hospital admissions.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant federal, state, and organizational policies and regulations.

Qualifications and Skills

The specific requirements can vary based on the setting (e.g., assisted living, hospital, community service organization), but generally include:

Education and Experience

• Preferred Education: A degree (Associate's or Bachelor's) in Nursing, Social Work, Gerontology, Therapeutic Recreation, or a related healthcare/human services field is often preferred.

• Experience: Typically requires a minimum of 2-3 years of experience working directly with or caring for older adults with cognitive deficits.

• Credentials: Professional credentials such as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), Registered Nurse (RN), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), or a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) are often required or highly valued.

Essential Skills

• In-depth Knowledge of dementia, its stages, related conditions (like Alzheimer's), and person-centered care approaches.

• Excellent Interpersonal and Communication Skills to build trust with residents, effectively communicate with families, and lead a care team.

• Strong Organizational Skills for managing complex care plans, documentation, and scheduling.

• Patience, Empathy, and Emotional Intelligence to handle challenging behaviors and support families through difficult circumstances.

• Supervisory and Leadership Skills for training and managing caregiving staff.

Salary Information

Salary for a Dementia or Memory Care Coordinator can vary significantly based on location, experience, educational background, and the size and type of the employing organization (e.g., non-profit vs. private facility).

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