Activities Assistant

Description

Position Summary:

The Activity Assistant supports the planning, coordination, and implementation of recreational, social, spiritual, educational, and therapeutic activities for residents in the Memory Care Department. This position helps promote resident engagement, emotional well-being, dignity, independence, and quality of life in accordance with resident care plans, applicable federal and California regulations, and Hollenbeck Palms policies and procedures.

The Activity Assistant works collaboratively with residents, families, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members to create a positive and meaningful resident experience while maintaining a safe, respectful, and compassionate environment.

Pay Range: $19.57 to $20.00 per hour

It is expected that this position will be scheduled Sunday & Monday.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, organizing, and conducting group and individualized activities for residents.
• Encourage resident participation in programs that support physical, emotional, cognitive, spiritual, and social well-being.
• Assist residents during activities, outings, and special events as needed.
• Visit residents who are unable or unwilling to attend group activities and provide individualized engagement opportunities.
• Maintain accurate attendance records, participation documentation, and activity-related charting as assigned.
• Observe and report changes in resident mood, behavior, physical condition, or participation level to nursing staff or the Activity Director.
• Help decorate and prepare activity areas for seasonal events, celebrations, and programs.
• Support the development of a warm, welcoming, and resident-centered environment.
• Assist with transporting residents to and from activities in a safe and respectful manner when assigned.
• Support with completing Activities Assessments in paper and supporting PCC Assessments MDS section F.
• Maintain confidentiality of resident information in compliance with HIPAA and Company policies.
• Ensure activity equipment and supplies are maintained in a clean, safe, and organized condition.
• Follow infection prevention, safety, emergency preparedness, and resident rights procedures at all times.
• Participate in departmental meetings, mandatory in-services, and required trainings.
• Collaborate positively with all departments to support resident quality of life initiatives.
• Report accidents, incidents, safety concerns, or hazardous conditions immediately.
• Perform other related duties as assigned within the scope of the position.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in activities, recreation, healthcare, senior living, or customer service preferred.
• Experience working with elderly residents, including residents with dementia or cognitive impairments, preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English; bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work compassionately with elderly, ill, disabled, or emotionally distressed residents.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic computer and documentation skills preferred.
• Current CNA certification preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and move throughout the facility during the workday.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or move activity supplies, equipment, and resident wheelchairs as needed.
• Ability to safely assist residents during activities and events.
• Ability to work in indoor and occasional outdoor environments.
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations.

Work Environment

This position works in a healthcare environment that may involve frequent interaction with elderly residents, including residents with cognitive decline, behavioral health needs, or chronic illnesses. Employees may experience interruptions, emotional situations, and exposure to communicable illnesses consistent with healthcare settings.