Activities Aide

About the Role

The Activities Aide assists the Activities Director in planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive program of meaningful recreational, social, cognitive, spiritual, and therapeutic activities that promote the physical, mental, emotional, and psychosocial well-being of residents. The role supports resident-centered care by encouraging participation in individualized and group activities while maintaining compliance with CMS, Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH), and facility policies.

Responsibilities

Resident Activities

• Assist in implementing the monthly activities calendar.
• Lead or assist with group activities including games, crafts, music, exercise, discussion groups, movies, bingo, holiday celebrations, educational programs, and special events.
• Provide individualized activities for residents unable or unwilling to attend group programs.
• Encourage resident participation while respecting each resident's preferences, rights, and choices.
• Assist residents to and from activity programs as appropriate.
• Promote an atmosphere that is welcoming, engaging, and enjoyable.

Resident Engagement

• Develop positive relationships with residents and families.
• Observe residents during activities and report changes in mood, participation, behavior, or functional status to the Activities Director and nursing staff.
• Encourage socialization and community involvement.
• Assist with outings and special events when scheduled.

Documentation

• Document resident attendance and participation accurately and timely.
• Report resident preferences and activity interests.
• Assist with maintaining activity records as assigned.
• Report concerns regarding residents to the appropriate licensed staff.

Activity Preparation

• Set up and clean activity areas before and after programs.
• Prepare activity supplies and equipment.
• Assist in decorating the facility for holidays and special occasions.
• Maintain activity storage areas in a clean and organized manner.

Safety

• Follow all infection prevention and control practices.
• Observe resident safety during activities.
• Utilize safe transfer techniques consistent with facility policy.
• Immediately report accidents, incidents, hazards, or equipment concerns.
• Maintain a safe and clean activity environment.

Customer Service

• Treat residents, families, visitors, and coworkers with dignity, respect, and professionalism.
• Support resident rights and person-centered care.
• Promote Grandview's mission and values through positive interactions.

Teamwork

• Participate in interdisciplinary care planning as requested.
• Communicate effectively with nursing, therapy, social services, dietary, and other departments.
• Attend required meetings and in-service education.
• Assist with additional activity-related duties as assigned by the Activities Director.

Requirements

Education

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

Experience

• Experience working with older adults or individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Long-term care, skilled nursing, assisted living, or recreation experience preferred but not required.

Knowledge

• Basic understanding of resident-centered care.
• Knowledge of dementia-friendly programming is preferred.
• Understanding of resident rights and confidentiality.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Compassionate and patient demeanor.
• Ability to motivate and engage residents with varying physical and cognitive abilities.
• Creativity and enthusiasm.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Basic computer and documentation skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to assist residents with mobility as permitted by facility policy.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and kneel.
• Ability to participate in indoor and outdoor activities.

Working Conditions

• Works throughout the facility, including resident units, activity rooms, dining areas, outdoor spaces, and community outing locations.
• Exposure to residents with cognitive impairment, dementia, and various medical conditions.
• May be required to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as scheduled.

Core Competencies

• Compassion and empathy
• Professionalism
• Reliability and punctuality
• Teamwork
• Effective communication
• Creativity
• Flexibility
• Respect for resident dignity and choice
• Positive attitude
• Commitment to resident-centered care

Performance Expectations

• Consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Positive resident engagement and participation.
• Accurate and timely documentation.
• Compliance with CMS, CT DPH, infection prevention, and facility policies.
• Professional interactions with residents, families, visitors, and staff.
• Maintenance of a safe and organized activity environment.
• Active participation in facility events and quality improvement initiatives.