Part Time Companion/Cook Needed in Round Hill, Virginia
Position: Part-Time Companion/Cook
Schedule: Saturday–Tuesday, 12:00 PM–8:30 PM; 32 hours per week
Compensation: $35 per hour
Start Date: ASAP
Relocation: No – candidates must live within commuting distance; car-dependent location
Description
A warm family on a working horse farm south of Round Hill, VA is looking for a Companion/Cook to support an 81-year-old woman with mild cognitive impairment and some mobility challenges. She has a background in special education and wildlife conservation, and she lights up when someone connects with her over those passions. She’s introverted and wants to feel respected and engaged. This role covers Saturday through Tuesday, and a separate companion covers the other days. It is strictly non-medical and non-hands-on, companion care only.
She typically sleeps until early evening, so the shift starts quietly at noon to make sure someone is in the home. Afternoons suit someone comfortable with downtime and self-directed tasks like grocery shopping, laundry, and dinner prep. There are also frequent medical and other appointments, and physical therapists sometimes visit the home. Dinner is the heart of the shift where the most interaction and work occurs most days.
Some days are warm and engaged, and some are quieter. The woman receiving care can be resistant or short with new people, and it will likely take many months to warm up. The right person understands that is part of her condition and doesn’t take it personally.
The family has three much-loved dogs (two friendly Labradors and a shy corgi mix) and a cat, so a real love of animals is essential. There are horses on the property, though no handling is required.
Responsibilities
- Prepare dinner in the evenings, typically a main protein forward dish, vegetable side, fresh salad, and simple dessert, for the client and one other household member
- Prepare lunch and/or snacks when needed
- Occasionally cook for guests (with notice)
- Keep the kitchen clean and tidy
- Grocery shop and keep the household stocked
- Household Laundry, plus occasional light errands
- Provide companionship and gentle encouragement, including medication reminders
- Drive the client to appointments and outings (the family provides a vehicle)
- Be present for in-home therapy visits and encourage her exercises
- Join her for short walks and light activities when she’s up for it
- Keep a general eye on her safety around the house
- Light pet care, including litter box and letting the dogs out
Ideal Candidate
Calm, patient, and steady, someone who can read the room, give space on hard days, and gently engage on good ones. They are confident cooking multi-dish dinners and learning the families dietary preferenes, comfortable with quiet stretches, and genuinely love dogs and cats. Experience with dementia or behavioral challenges is a big plus.
Requirements
- Prior experience in companion care, elder care, or a similar household role
- Confident cooking multi-dish dinners, family can provide recipes and some instructions
- Patience and emotional steadiness with a client who may be resistant at times
- Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and comfort driving to frequent appointments
- Legally authorized to work in the United States
- Excellent professional references
- Reliable and committed to a consistent weekend schedule
Compensation & Benefits
- $35 per hour
- 32 guaranteed hours per week
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Private space on-site for breaks and lunch