Activity Aide

PURPOSE OF YOUR JOB POSITION

The primary purpose of your job position is to assist in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of recreational, social, intellectual, emotional and spiritual programs, in accordance with the resident’s assessment and care plan, and as may be directed by the Life Enrichment Coordinator.

DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY

As the Activity Aide, you are delegated the administrative authority, responsibility, and accountability necessary for carrying out your assigned duties.

JOB FUNCTIONS

Every effort has been made to make your job description as complete as possible. However, it in no way states or implies that these are the only duties you will be required to perform. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or is a logical assignment to the position.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide monthly activity calendar to each resident.
• Visit new residents and obtain an activity assessment within three days of his/her arrival.
• Transfer resident’s voter registration as requested by resident.
• Provide written care plans on assigned units that correspond with the Care Plan Team’s assessment of the residents on a quarterly basis. Enter resident interviews in to the computer.
• Document quarterly progress notes on each resident’s chart in the health care units.
• Plan and implement small activity groups, remotivation groups, etc., on assigned units on a weekly basis.
• Encourage residents to continue with hobbies, crafts, etc., related to present and past interests and provide materials as necessary. Include activities that supplement the Restorative Program outlined for each resident.
• Conduct a variety of group activities with residents throughout the facility on a weekly and monthly basis. (Examples: bingo, ceramics, cooking class, crafts, exercises, game time, reminiscence groups, sing-a-long, birthday party, movie time, popcorn cart, ice cream cart, community excursions, etc.)
• Make room visits with residents on assigned units as set forth through care plans and assist with crafts, projects, one-on-one activities for those residents who are unable to attend group activities, etc., as necessary.
• Conduct sensory groups three times per week providing a variety of sensory stimulation.
• Assist in recruiting, selecting and training volunteers. Schedule volunteers, hours, work assignments, etc. Supervise/monitor work of volunteers to ensure compliance of requests and established procedures including safety, sanitation and infection control.
• Recommend the supply needs of the activity department to the Life Enrichment Coordinator.
• Supervise residents during community outings; bus rides, picnics, luncheons, shopping trips, etc.
• Purchase departmental supplies and clothing and personal items for residents. Deliver mail and newspapers to residents.
• Willingly perform a variety of other duties as assigned by the Life Enrichment Coordinator.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must have, as a minimum, a high school diploma.

EXPERIENCE

• Two years’ experience in working with the elderly in a long-term care facility preferred.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language in an understandable manner.
• Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
• Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, and the general public.
• Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition and enthusiasm, as well as be willing to handle residents based on whatever maturity level they are currently functioning.
• Must possess a cheerful personality and be able work harmoniously with other personnel.
• Must possess the ability to seek out new methods and principles and be willing to incorporate them into existing practices.
• Must be able to follow written and oral instructions.
• Must have some understanding of the social, psychological, and recreational needs of the elderly.
• Must have a sincere desire to work with the elderly.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday.
• Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.
• Must possess sight/hearing senses, or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met.
• Must function independently, have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with residents, personnel and support agencies.
• Must be in good general health and demonstrate emotional stability.
• May be required to lift, push, and move equipment, supplies, etc., throughout the workday.
• Must meet the general health requirements set forth by the policies of this facility, which include a medical and physical examination.
• Must be able to relate to and work with ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset, and at times, hostile people within the facility.
• May be necessary to assist in the evacuation of residents during emergency situations.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 25 lbs.