UCHRA Seeking Job Applicants For Program To Assist Elderly, Others At Home

UCHRA currently hiring for a program that keeps the elderly and others with declining health in their home and out of assisted living facilities.

Choices is a service administered through TennCare, providing services so people can age in their home as long as possible. UCHRA Community Service Manager Jennifer Knepp said the program is extremely important.

“Obviously everybody wants to stay at home as long as possible, and we try to facilitate that,” Knepp said. “Nobody really wants to be in a facility where they are stuck in a room all day. They want to be at home with their family and loved ones, and we want to help them do that.”

The potential new hire for the program would help with housekeeping, meal prep, errands and personal care for those in the program. Knepp said they are looking for candidates with experience in this type of work. Being a CNA is not required but is a plus, Knepp said.

“Experience is really important when you are sending someone into someone else’s home,” Knepp said. “We want to know that they are qualified and passionate and capable of doing that position.”

Knepp said the job is not for everybody. She said it takes patience and compassion for the elderly and those in declining health. However, Knepp said ultimately the job is incredibly rewarding.

“For the caregivers I have on staff now it is a very fulfilling position,” Knepp said. “You’re helping somebody. You’re doing good for your community. It is a feel-good-type job.”

Knepp said helping the community is a big part of the program.

“It keeps people in their communities and that just makes the community stronger,” Knepp said. “If you can keep your residents there, in there homes, participating to whatever extent they can. Its building a stronger community.”

UCHRA covers all 14 counties in the Upper Cumberland and there are positions open in all 14 counties.