POSITION SUMMARY:

Provide individual counselling and case management for eligible Hearing Care Counselling (HCC) clients. Promote hearing health and communication options within the older adult population (age of 55 and up & hard of hearing or deafened) and within their network system and communities.  Promote the independence and empowerment of individuals with acquired hearing loss, so as to enhance daily functioning, safety and social access.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Direct Service:

•    Provide outreach within the HCCP scope
•    Provide counselling and support to seniors and their families/caregivers in relation to hearing loss and consequent issues by means of home visits or other contacts
•    Provide instruction and support in establishing strategies for effective communication
•    Assess and make recommendations in relation to individual needs regarding assistive devices
•    Initiate, facilitate, and maintain support groups
•    Provide follow-up services to clients as required
•    Other duties as assigned

Administration:

•    Initiate and follow-up on correspondence and telephone calls from clients, general public, and other referral sources including government and agency contacts
•    Initiate, maintain and update accurate client files as required by CHS policies and procedures and Government Guidelines
•    Initiate and follow up on correspondence and phone calls from clients, general public and other referral sources including government and agency contacts
•    Update and maintain resource information and files
•    Maintain accurate records and statistics
•    Other duties as assigned

Community Education:

•    Act as a resource and provide presentations in the seniors community on hearing loss
•    Act as resource and provide in service training to other community agencies, professionals, educational institutions, support and other groups on hearing loss and the elderly
•    Participate in internal committees/working groups
•    Represent CHS at various health fairs and information sessions
•    Participate in community projects, fundraising, and specialized campaigns E.g.: United Way, May Month etc

Professional Development:

•    Attend internal staff meetings
•    Attend and participate in workshops/seminars related to position
•    Keep up-to-date on issues and information related to position and agency
•    Acquire and maintain ASL proficiency requirement for the position (Level 4)

LINE OF RESPONSIBILITY:

Regional Director, Kingston

QUALIFICATIONS:

•    Bachelor’s degree in Social Services field with a specialization in Gerontology, or equivalent
•    Three to five years counselling experience with the elderly
•    Demonstrated knowledge of and experience in the field of hearing loss
•    Proficiency in MS Office Suite, Internet and database
•    Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills; maturity and tact
•    Valid driver's licence and access to a reliable vehicle
•    American Sign Language (ASL) or willingness learn; French and LSQ are assets
•    Demonstrated sensitivity to working in a culturally diverse environment
•    Regular local travel; occasional out of region travel e.g. training, retreats, etc.