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Aging Services Caseworker 1 Jurisdiction: Schuyler County Jurisdictional Class: Competitive Adopted: September 30, 2005; Revised: January 2018 AGING SERVICES CASEWORKER DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves responsibility for designing and implementing a program to assist older and/or disabled individuals of all ages to remain in and function effectively/safely within a non- institutional setting as well as working with informal/family caregivers. The focus of the work is on assisting clients with their economic, emotional, social, physical, environmental and caregiving challenges. The Aging Services Caseworker provides information, assistance, and counseling, as well as formulates and helps to carry out plans to meet the individual. The work is performed under the direct supervision of the Director. Does related work as required. TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: Assesses the needs of the individuals referred or making contact, provides Options Counseling, makes corresponding referrals, assists with applications and other needs as warranted, and prepares an appropriate care plan accordingly; Makes home visits to individuals as needed for assessments, application assistance, and to address other issues as identified; Follows all guidelines for the EISEP, Caregiver and Home Delivered Meals programs regarding case management and service provision including, but not limited to, assessment procedures; Uses computer database to collect, record, and document client information as required including completed assessments and services provided; Refers, links to, and/or advocates on behalf of individuals with other community organizations; Makes follow-up visits as required; Reviews existing case records for available information for use in formulating a plan of care; Works closely with other staff personnel in carrying out the plan for services; Periodically reviews cases to determine change in the individual’s situations affecting the need for services; Provides casework counseling in a number of areas including available community services; Participates in training required by NYS; Assists Director with scheduling meetings, educational programs, and events for clients and staff; Participates in meetings and task forces focused on the work of the agency within the community. FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Good knowledge of local community resources, services, and programs for the elderly and disabled populations; Good knowledge of the characteristics, needs, and interests of the elderly and disabled of all ages; Ability to establish and maintain successful relationships with individuals being assisted; Ability to understand human behavior, disabilities impacting individuals, and the aging process; ---PAGE BREAK--- Aging Services Caseworker 2 Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; Sensitivity and empathy to the problems and concerns of the aging and the disabled; Good powers of observation and analysis; Initiative, tact, and good judgment; Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Either: Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in human services, sociology, social work, gerontology, or closely related field. SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid New York State driver’s license or otherwise demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the job.