Parkinson's Exercise Program Assistant

Description

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.

Salary : $20