Activities Assistant

Job Description – Activities Assistant Reports Directly to: Head of Activities Description of Position The Activities Assistant supports the planning, coordination, and implementation of recreational, social, educational, and therapeutic programs that promote resident engagement and enhance quality of life. The Activities Assistant works under the direction of the Executive Director to help ensure that activities meet the diverse interests and functional abilities of residents while supporting their emotional, physical, and cognitive well-being.

Qualifications

for the Position The Activities Assistant shall be at least eighteen (18) years of age, have a criminal clearance prior to presence in the facility, and possess a high school diploma (or equivalent, such as a General Education Development certificate). The Activities Assistant will also have passed a physical and have a chest x-ray (or an intradermal test) performed by a physician within the prior six months of employment.

The physician’s report shall indicate physical qualification to perform duties and no health conditions that would create a hazard to self, staff, or residents. The other requirements of the Activities Assistant are: Experience in a social, recreational, or activities-related role, preferably in a senior living or healthcare setting.

Ability to lead group activities and one-on-one interactions with enthusiasm and sensitivity. Good communication skills and ability to build rapport with elderly individuals, including those with cognitive impairments. Creativity, flexibility, and initiative in engaging residents with varying abilities. Basic computer skills for maintaining calendars, sign-ups, and resident activity records.

Good character, dependability, and personal integrity. Basic First Aid certification is preferred. The individual must have the physical ability to push wheelchairs, assist residents with limited mobility, and lift up to 25 pounds. The Activities Assistant must be able to observe, document, and report changes in resident behavior or participation.

The Activities Assistant shall have a criminal record clearance prior to presence in the facility. The Activities Assistant will have a TB test clearance within 7 days of employment and the health screening completed within 7 days of employment.

Responsibilities

Assist in planning and conducting daily group activities, including exercise classes, games, crafts, music, movies, outings, and social events. Encourage resident participation and adapt activities to meet individual physical or cognitive needs. Escort and supervise residents during community outings or on-campus events.

Lead one-on-one engagement for residents who are unable or unwilling to attend group programs. Maintain an up-to-date and visually engaging activities calendar. Assist with setting up and cleaning up activity areas before and after programs. Coordinate with caregivers and med techs to ensure residents are brought to scheduled activities.

Document resident attendance and engagement; report changes in behavior or participation to the Executive Director. Assist with planning and preparation of seasonal events, family nights, and holiday celebrations. Help decorate common areas in coordination with holidays and themed events. Maintain inventory of supplies and notify the Executive Director when additional materials are needed.

Support resident-centered care by listening to preferences, suggestions, and feedback about activities. Attend in-service training and staff meetings as required. Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Completion of high school or above is preferred. Experience: Preferred at least 1 year of activities or caregiving experience in an assisted living environment. Mathematical Skills: Ability to make simple mathematical calculations. Reasoning Skills: Understand complex issues and ability to carry out plan of action on own initiative Oral/Written Communication Skills: Ability to interact tactfully with residents and family members, staff and general public.

Ability to make decisions in stressful situations. Ability to communicate directions to all levels of employees, both in writing and verbally. Equipment Used: Be proficient in basic office equipment (including a personal computer) for the purpose of accomplishing and maintaining a high level of job performance. Physical Effort: Be mobile and able to perform physical requirements of the job.

Good physical health verified by a health screening, including a chest x-ray or an intradermal test not more than six (6) months prior or seven (7) days after employment. Personal Characteristics: Possesses good character and displays high degree of personal integrity. Ability to work with others in providing care. Ability to show sincere compassion towards cognitively impaired older adults.

Demonstrates genuine concern for the physical and emotional needs of older people and their families. Working Conditions: Air-conditioned well-lighted health care environment.