Occupational Therapist

RecruitSmith (PTY) LTD; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

RecruitSmith (PTY) LTD is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist in Somerset West to enhance the lives of elderly persons through individualized care and therapeutic interventions. This role involves resident assessments, developing activity programmes, and working within a multidisciplinary team to ensure optimal resident care.

The ideal candidate must hold a Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Therapy and have at least three years of healthcare experience, particularly in geriatrics or dementia care. Proficiency in English and Afrikaans is essential, along with strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' experience within healthcare, elderly care, or dementia care.
• Professional proficiency in both English and Afrikaans.
• Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive baseline assessments and ongoing resident assessments.
• Design and implement personalized activity and outing programmes.
• Promote resident-centred care and advocate for residents' dignity.

Skills

Strong client and family relationship management skills

Excellent communication and emotional intelligence

Exceptional attention to detail

Genuine empathy and compassion for older persons

Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Therapy

Registered Occupational Therapist

Tools

Computer literacy

Job description

Join a Team Dedicated to Enhancing the Lives of Older Persons

Livewell Estate is seeking a compassionate, professional, and experienced Occupational Therapist to join our multidisciplinary team in Somerset West.

This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified Occupational Therapist who is passionate about geriatrics, dementia care, and improving the quality of life of elderly residents through meaningful therapeutic interventions and resident-centred care.

As part of our holistic care model, you will play a critical role in assessing residents, developing individualized therapy and activity programmes, supporting families, and working closely with healthcare professionals to ensure every resident receives the highest standard of care.

Resident Assessments & Care Planning

• Conduct comprehensive baseline assessments prior to admission and ongoing resident assessments thereafter.
• Perform formal assessments following the integration period and as required following illness, hospitalization, falls, behavioural changes, or functional decline.
• Complete bi-annual assessments and maintain accurate documentation.
• Develop individualized therapeutic intervention plans aimed at maximizing independence and quality of life.

Therapeutic Programmes & Resident Engagement

• Design and implement personalized activity and outing programmes.
• Encourage and support resident participation in meaningful activities.
• Accompany residents on outings and assess suitability, accessibility, and overall experience.
• Train care teams on therapeutic activities and their intended outcomes.

Assistive Devices & Functional Support

• Assess resident needs for assistive devices.
• Guide families through the procurement process.
• Train care providers and support staff on the effective use of assistive equipment.

Behavioural Management

• Review behavioural assessments and reports.
• Develop holistic behavioural support strategies.
• Collaborate with care teams to implement behavioural management plans.

Resident-Centred Care

• Promote and maintain Livewell's resident-centred care philosophy.
• Contribute to continuous improvements in resident wellbeing, daily care, and living environments.
• Advocate for the dignity, independence, and personal preferences of residents.

Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration

• Work closely with:
  • Estate Management
  • Resident-Centred Care Team
  • Healthcare Team
  • Family Liaison Team
  • External healthcare professionals and service providers
• Attend and actively participate in multidisciplinary meetings.

Family Engagement

• Build and maintain positive relationships with residents' families.
• Participate in regular family care meetings.
• Provide ongoing family support and communication regarding resident wellbeing and progress.

Operational & Administrative Responsibilities

• Attend daily and multidisciplinary meetings.
• Maintain accurate clinical records and reports.
• Support event planning, memorial services, and resident activities.
• Report maintenance, safety, and hospitality concerns when identified.
• Participate in weekend roster duties as required.

New Resident Integration

• Participate in pre-admission home assessments.
• Develop and implement resident integration programmes.
• Welcome new residents and families and support their transition into the Estate.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Therapy (4-year qualification)
• Registered Occupational Therapist
• Minimum 3 years' experience within healthcare, elderly care, dementia care, or a related environment
• Professional proficiency in both English and Afrikaans (written and spoken)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong client and family relationship management skills
• Computer literacy
• Strong organisational and self-management abilities
• Valid driver's licence and own reliable transportClear criminal record

Advantageous

• MoCA Certification or relevant post-graduate studies
• Additional language proficiency
• Experience working within dementia care or geriatric environments
• Additional healthcare-related qualifications or experience

Personal Attributes

• Genuine empathy and compassion for older persons
• Emotional maturity and resilience
• Patience, professionalism, and integrity
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Excellent conflict resolution abilities
• Adaptability and a positive attitude towards change
• A proactive approach to problem-solving
• Passion for continuous learning and best practice
• A genuine interest in geriatric and dementia care

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional attention to detail
• Strong administration and reporting skills
• Excellent communication and emotional intelligence
• Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team
• Strong organisational and time-management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Comfortable working in a dynamic healthcare environment
• Flexibility to work weekends according to roster requirements