Activity Assistant

SUMMARY: Plans, develops, organizes and ensures implementation of a variety of activities for social, emotional, physical and other therapeutic needs of each resident by performing the following duties: ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: An individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Other duties as assigned. Assesses residents and designs activities programs to meet the functional levels, needs, interests and choices of each resident; develops and implements comprehensive activity program, including individual and group activities. Maintains dialogue with residents, family members, legal representatives and significant others to develop individualized activities programs, which promote resident needs, preferences and rights. Regularly communicates and works with the management team. Works with Executive Director/designee to manage department matters, including, but not limited to: departmental budget, staffing plan, resident care and/or personnel matters. Works cooperatively with members of the interdisciplinary team to develop and implement a comprehensive plan of care, which includes activities interventions. Attends care conferences. Regularly meets with census development team to plan, organize and establish goals for the team. Implements plan, as directed with team. Ensures proper documentation is maintained. This includes, but is not limited to: documentation of activity assessments, history, and resident participation in the clinical record. Audits chart entries written by activities staff. Performs quality assessment and assurance functions, including but not limited to: serving on quality and assurance committee, conducting daily regulatory compliance rounds, observation of activities on progress on units, reviews records, implementation of corrective measures, staff members, residents, family interviews. Assists with development and update of activities policies and procedures to reflect the philosophy of the Facility, professional standards, and legal requirements. Participates with Executive Director/designee in survey processes by: instructing staff regarding conduct and disclosure, reporting, being present while surveyors are on-site, directing prompt responses to requests for information, and undertaking corrective action, if appropriate. Manages volunteers and coordinates their recruitment, orientation, training and recognition. Maintains and applies current skills and knowledge through continuing education and in-service programs. Carries out responsibilities in compliance with federal, state, local laws and regulations, and with Facility philosophy, policies and procedures. Assists residents in the organization and continued development of a residents council. Possesses the ability to read and interpret technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from residents, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. Possesses the ability to present information to management effectively. Must be able to speak, understand and read the English language to the extent necessary to safely and properly care for residents. Possesses excellent interpersonal skills with high level of energy and enthusiasm. Possesses ability to organize, document, and implement detailed programs. Possesses good verbal and written communication skills. This position requires standing, sitting, stooping, pushing, pulling, lifting up to 50 pounds or more, bending, climbing, twisting upper body, walking, running, carrying, listening, talking, use of telephone, and exposure to medical equipment and persons with risk of illness SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Directly supervises Activity Assistants and volunteers in the Activities Department. Responsibilities include interviewing; hiring and training employees; planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems. Must consistently use discretion and independent judgment. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Associates degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or two to four years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Meets state and federal requirements. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: Drivers license per position requirements EOE #J-18808-Ljbffr