What are the responsibilities and job description for the Parkinson's Exercise Program Assistant position at YMCA?
At the YMCA, we are dedicated to fostering a community that promotes health, well-being, and inclusivity for all. A certified Parkinson's Exercise Program Instructor plays a pivotal role in delivering exercise programs designed specifically for individuals with Parkinson's, aligning with the YMCA's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our community members.
Responsibilities:
Exercise Program Design and Implementation:
- Support program instructors by effectively identifying participants needing assistance and being able to quickly tend to those needs.
- Provide modifications and adjustments to accommodate varying fitness levels and abilities.
Communication and Advocacy:
- Demonstrate an understanding of Parkinson's symptoms and treatments.
- Effectively communicate with participants and their care partners.
- Advocate for the positive impact of exercise on the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's, aligning with the YMCA's mission.
Assessment and Modification:
- Create a supportive and inclusive environment by using appropriate safety protocols
- Provide appropriate exercise modification through independent identification of participants in need.
Instruction and Engagement:
- Respond to medical incidents, and anticipate support needed to provide education to enhance participants' understanding and engagement.
- Utilize behavior change strategies to foster a sense of community, motivation, and program adherence.
Adaptability and Flexibility:
- Recognize changes in participants' health status
- Collaborate with the program instructor to identify any suitable program changes for participants
- Ability to recognize participants who need special attention due to health concerns.
Professionalism and Compliance:
- Mitigate legal risk by adhering to professional responsibilities, ensuring a safe exercise environment, and following health and safety regulations.
- Foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere, offering encouragement, support, and motivation to participants.
Continuous Learning and Program Alignment:
- Stay updated on the latest guidelines and recommendations for Parkinson's exercise programs.
- Attend training sessions or workshops as needed and maintain open communication for program alignment.
- Participate in staff meetings.
Community Building:
- Establish a sense of community, autonomy, and camaraderie among participants.
Safety and Emergency Procedures:
- Understand safety and emergency procedures, reporting any issues immediately.
Supervisors and administrators will:
• Follow employee's and volunteers' screening requirements and use screening instruments to screen for abuse risk.
• Provide employees and volunteers with ongoing supervision and training related to abuse risk.
• Provide employees and volunteers with regular feedback regarding their boundaries with children and teens.
• Require employees and volunteers to adhere to policies and procedures related to abuse risk.
Qualifications:
- Specialized training in Parkinson's exercise programs.
- Experience working with individuals with Parkinson's disease.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- CPR and First Aid certification.