Activity Assistant

Waterview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (1) -

Activity Assistant

Department: Activities / Recreation
Reports To: Director of Activities
Employment Type: Full-Time / Part-Time
Location: Waterview Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

Position Summary

The Activity Assistant supports the Director of Activities in planning, organizing, and implementing engaging recreational, social, educational, cultural, and therapeutic activities for residents in a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility.

The Activity Assistant plays an important role in enhancing residents’ quality of life by encouraging participation, promoting social interaction, supporting individual interests and abilities, and creating a welcoming and stimulating environment for residents.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with planning and conducting a diverse calendar of daily and weekly resident activities.

• Lead or assist with activities including:

  • Arts and crafts

  • Bingo and games

  • Music and entertainment programs

  • Exercise and movement programs

  • Movies and television programs

  • Trivia and educational programs

  • Holiday and cultural celebrations

  • Pet therapy and special events

  • Birthday and resident recognition programs

  • Social gatherings and group discussions

• Encourage residents to participate in activities based on their individual interests, preferences, abilities, and care plans.

• Provide one-on-one activities and meaningful engagement for residents who are unable or prefer not to participate in group programs.

• Assist residents to and from activity programs as appropriate and in accordance with facility safety procedures.

• Set up and clean activity areas before and after programs.

• Maintain activity supplies, equipment, and inventory in an organized manner.

• Assist with decorating common areas and activity spaces for holidays, special events, and seasonal programs.

• Develop positive relationships with residents and encourage socialization and community involvement.

• Observe residents during activities and communicate changes in mood, behavior, participation, or needs to the appropriate staff.

• Document resident participation and activity-related information accurately and timely, as required.

• Assist with maintaining resident activity records and documentation in accordance with facility policies and regulatory requirements.

• Work collaboratively with nursing, social services, rehabilitation, dietary, and other departments to support resident-centered care.

• Assist with special events, entertainment, resident outings, and community programs.

• Promote a respectful, inclusive, and person-centered environment for all residents.

• Ensure activities are conducted in a safe manner and follow infection prevention and facility safety protocols.

• Maintain confidentiality of resident information and comply with HIPAA and facility policies.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Activities or Administrator.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Previous experience working with seniors, particularly in a nursing home, assisted living facility, adult day care, or healthcare setting, preferred.

• Experience in recreational activities, arts and crafts, music, entertainment, or group programming is a plus.

• Must demonstrate patience, compassion, enthusiasm, and a genuine interest in working with the elderly.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Ability to work effectively with residents with varying physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities.

• Ability to work independently as well as part of an interdisciplinary team.

• Must be dependable, organized, energetic, and able to manage multiple activities and responsibilities.

• CPR certification or other applicable certifications may be required according to facility policy.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to…