Memory Care Program Specialist
Company : Post Acute Partners
Location : Liverpool, NY, 13088
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 14 January 2026
Salary
$23 - $29.90 / hourlyOverview
Memory Care Program Specialist
Elderwood of LiverpoolPay Range: $23.00 – $29.90 / hour (based on experience)
Elderwood of Liverpool is seeking a compassionate, creative, and resident-focused Memory Care Program Specialist to join our team. This role is ideal for individuals with a background in Recreation Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or related therapeutic programming who are passionate about enriching the lives of residents living with dementia.
If you have a degree in Recreation Therapy, are a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), or have related experience in therapeutic programming — we encourage you to apply.
Position Overview
The Memory Care Program Specialist provides therapeutic and social programming designed to enhance the physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being of residents. This position operates under the direction of the Director of Activities, with additional support from the Director of Memory Care.
Responsibilities include planning and implementing daily memory care programming, documenting participation and progress, supporting residents during activities and meals, and maintaining a warm, supportive environment that honors each resident’s dignity and preferences.
Why Join Elderwood?
Elderwood is a leading, trusted provider of senior care across the Northeast, offering a supportive environment where employees can grow, learn, and make a meaningful impact every day. At Elderwood of Liverpool, you’ll join a compassionate team dedicated to providing exceptional care to residents and creating a positive, collaborative workplace for staff.
We are committed to investing in your success through training, development opportunities, and a culture that values teamwork, respect, and quality care.
Employee Benefits at Elderwood
Elderwood offers a comprehensive benefits package to support your well-being, career growth, and work–life balance, including:
Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
401(K) Retirement Plan with employer matching
PTO & Sick Time Package
Weekly Pay
Shift Differentials (where applicable)
Tuition Assistance Program
Free Uniforms
Employer-Paid Life Insurance
Employee Referral Bonus Program
Robust Employee Recognition Programs
Opportunities for Career Advancement
Optional Pay in Lieu of Benefits program (for eligible clinical roles)
Employee Perks!
401K Retirement Plan with Company Match, Free On-Site Parking, Free Uniforms, Generous PTO & holiday package, Increased Wages, Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, NEW Weekly Pay Schedule!, Point-earning employee reward program: redeem for prizes!, Substantial employee referral programResponsibilities
Responsibilities
Resident Engagement & Support
Respond immediately to residents’ needs and requests.
Facilitate therapeutic and social activities tailored to resident interests and abilities.
Support residents in achieving their highest practicable level of physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being.
Provide appropriate cognitive and sensory stimulation activities.
Assist with meal service and feeding (after required training).
Notify the Licensed Nurse of any change in resident condition or needs.
- Perform additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor, manager, or Administrator.
Program Planning & Documentation
Complete and maintain the daily memory care calendar.
Prepare resident participation reviews, daily attendance forms, and monthly progress reports.
Maintain documentation in accordance with facility standards and regulatory requirements.
Professional Conduct & Team Collaboration
Maintain facility standards for resident care and customer service.
Demonstrate genuine concern, patience, and compassion toward the elderly.
Display respect for residents' rights, preferences, and confidentiality.
Cooperate with team members and follow directives from supervisors.
Attend departmental meetings, councils, and required in-service trainings.
Offer ideas to enhance program quality and resident satisfaction.
Compliance & Safety
Follow all safety rules, policies, and infection control procedures.
Adhere to Elderwood’s Mission, Vision, Values, and Code of Conduct.
Maintain HIPAA compliance in all interactions.
Utilize electronic timekeeping and activity documentation systems as directed.
Follow policies for use of electronic devices, tablets, and computers.
From
Up to
Qualifications
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy, Education or related field OR Certified Occupational Therapist (COTA) OR Associates Degree (example COTA) with 1-2 years of experience in long term care Activities OR 1-2 years’ experience in recreational programming in another field.
- Current, valid state required certification or license in the state in which work is performed or must be willing to obtain National Certification in Activities within 1 year.
- Certification in dementia and/or behavior management (e.g. CDT) or (will obtain within 1 year of hire)
- Demonstrated computer skills including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and web-based applications
- Current, valid driver license (if applicable)
- Demonstrated supervisory experience preferred
- Experience with dementia population desired
- This position requires regular interaction with residents, coworkers, visitors, and/or supervisors. In order to ensure a safe work environment for residents, coworkers, visitors, and/or supervisors of the Company, and to permit unfettered communication between the employee and those residents, coworkers, visitors, and supervisors, this position requires that the employee be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language at an intermediate or more advanced level.
EOE Statement
WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. Applicants and employees are considered for positions and are evaluated without regard to mental or physical disability, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status or any other protected Federal, State/Province or Local status unrelated to the performance of the work involved.Related Jobs
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Frequently asked questions
In Liverpool, NY, employers often prefer candidates with dementia-specific certifications such as CDT or related behavioral management credentials. Obtaining state-required licenses or national certifications within a year of hire further strengthens your eligibility for memory care roles in this region.
Liverpool's growing senior care community drives steady demand for memory care specialists. While competition exists, possessing therapeutic programming experience and dementia care certifications notably improves your chances in local job markets like Elderwood and similar facilities.
Mastering skills like cognitive stimulation techniques, therapeutic activity planning, and compassionate communication is vital. Proficiency in documentation tools and understanding seniors' psychosocial needs also pave the way for impactful engagement with residents living with dementia.
Yes, this position often serves as a stepping stone toward leadership roles in senior care management, clinical coordination, or specialized dementia care education, especially when combined with certifications and demonstrated supervisory experience.
Specialists encounter fluctuating resident cognitive states, requiring adaptability in activity design and emotional support. Balancing thorough documentation with hands-on engagement while collaborating with nursing staff adds to the role's complexity.
Post Acute Partners fosters a culture emphasizing resident dignity and interdisciplinary collaboration, providing specialists with training and resources to innovate therapeutic programs within a supportive framework tailored for dementia care.
Elderwood’s commitment to weekly pay, tuition assistance, and robust employee recognition creates a rewarding environment. The role uniquely combines creative therapeutic planning with a strong emphasis on teamwork and resident-centered care.
Expect compensation between $23.00 and $29.90 per hour, reflecting experience and certifications. This range aligns with regional standards for specialized memory care roles in senior living communities.
This role offers specialized engagement with dementia populations, leveraging therapeutic expertise beyond basic caregiving. It provides a meaningful avenue for impacting cognitive and emotional health while opening doors to professional growth.
Balancing hands-on support with meticulous documentation is crucial. Efficiently recording activity outcomes and resident progress ensures compliance while enhancing personalized care strategies within memory care units.