SUMMARY

In the Activities Assistant position, this role is responsible for providing engaging programs for residents , while maintaining a professional demeanor and positive attitude. Under the direction of the Activities Manager, this role will facilitate scheduled activities, engaging in both small and large group settings , to enhance the mind, body, and soul of each of our senior residents, while collaborating with other departments. This role assists with supporting residents by understanding their personal preferences, interests, and physical and cognitive abilities. This role may assist residents with some activities of daily living.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned by your direct manager. Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of the job.

• Knows and understands dementia and how residents may be affected by the disease progression.
• Recognizes the psychosocial needs of the elderly.
• Studies and analyzes resident recreational needs and resources.
• Continuously seeks out new activities, events, and excursions.
• Knows and understands resident’s likes, dislikes, hobbies, and interests.
• Assists with completing the orientation of all new residents by encouraging them to attend programs that they may enjoy.
• Encourages residents to participate in programming by trying to maximize individual participation in events, while still respecting their right to privacy.
• Interprets programs and their philosophy to individuals and groups through personal participation and staff assignments.
• Assists with scheduling maintenance and use of Activity Rooms, company vehicles and all of the equipment necessary for the department's use.
• Provides a stimulating and interesting activity program.
• Puts up all holiday decorations at the beginning of each month.
• Assists with scheduling a wide variety of activities and events that reflect the seasons of the year and the interests and temperament of the residents.
• Assists with the completion of a professional and attractive monthly newsletter/calendar using the provided template. Provides feedback on the activities.
• Tracks and creates greeting cards and notes on special occasions, such as birthdays, get wells, and anniversaries for all residents.
• Cleans and stores all supplies and or equipment, immediately following the completion of any use.
• Monitors the organization and cleanliness of the activity spaces and common rooms. Cleans and organizes when needed.
• Assists with purchasing equipment and services from outside vendors with approval from the immediate manager.
• Assists with establishing and maintaining contact with service vendors, entertainers, teachers, etc.
• Manages all signup sheets for outings and scenic drives by taking into consideration elopement risk, number of wheelchairs, and staff to accompany residents to the restroom.
• May be required to drive an automobile, mini-van, or small bus to transport residents and visitors to and from outings, events, trips, errands, and appointments.
• Assists with the coordination and supervision of the Volunteers.
• Knowledgeable in evaluating resident needs and assisting volunteers.
• May assist residents with some activities of daily living that include escorting, transferring, meal assistance, some dressing.
• Arranges one-on-one activities or visits to connect with residents who would benefit from personalized attention.
• Uses Positive Approach to Care (PAC) to enhance life and relationships for all residents.
• Facilitates and adjusts activities based on the participant’s needs (GEM state, hearing loss, etc)
• Ancillary Tasks: these duties may be performed on an as-needed basis in support of another department: Assists residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including, but not limited to escort, continence care, transfer assistance, and meal assistance.; Assist with the coordination of all transportation needs, including driving if applicable.
• Attends and remains up to date on all company-provided training
• Attends periodic staff meetings, in-service training, and mandatory meetings as required. 
• Observes Residents’ Rights, as posted within the facility, to include any updates thereto.
• Mandated reporting – if you suspect any verbal, physical, emotional, financial, or neglectful treatment toward a resident or staff member, report it to your supervisor immediately.
• In Emergencies, assist residents according to the Emergency Plan of the facility

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• A High School Diploma or GED is required, or equivalent experience.
• Must be computer literate for communication, scheduling, ordering, tracking, basic graphic design, and activities and outing research.
• 1 year of experience running group activities is preferred, but not required.
• According to Title 22 requirements, employee must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos in English, so as not to jeopardize the safety and well-being of the residents. Ability to communicate with residents, and effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
• Remains professional and respectful, and interact with our customers – including residents, family members, and all staff members – according to the concepts identified by the Carlton Way.
• Must be able to use technology, such as company-provided phones and tablets, to communicate among staff on resident needs.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Must be authorized to work in the United States of America and provide sufficient work authorization documentation(s)
• Department of Justice and FBI fingerprint clearance must be completed prior to working in the community (obtained through the community)
• Health screening/Physical and negative tuberculosis test must be less than six (6) months old (obtained through the community)
• First Aid/CPR Certification (obtained through the community)