Description
Essential Functions
- Performs comprehensive assessment for each resident to determine level of abilities combined with past and current interests.Â
- Based on findings, develops an individualized person-centered program of activity pursuits that are meaningful to the resident.
- Completes MDS, CAAs in a timely manner, utilizing observation and assessment/monitoring tools.
- Documents resident response to care plans and evaluates individual resident activity care plans for effectiveness, through participation records, etc.
- Develops and utilizes a budget sufficient to maintain equipment and purchase supplies, enabling staff to provide for prescribed activity models.
- Utilizes the “biopsychosocial” model to create meaningful activities for individuals.
- As an active member of the facility’s interdisciplinary team, utilizes cutting edge models of approach, such as music therapy, pet therapy, aroma-therapy, therapeutic touch, etc. to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, aggression and pain.Â
- Assists in evaluating efficacy of interventions for nursing and physician action.
- Develops a variety of activity “tracks” to appeal to a heterogeneous resident population, including assorted lifestyle desires (such as individuals who prefer self-initiated activities), cultural diversity and age-appropriate choices.
- Utilizes the environment to provide both comfort and stimulation to the resident population.
- Assists residents and staff in orientation to time and place by strategic use of center-wide bulletin boards and appropriate holiday decorations or reminders.
- Arranges for speakers, presenters, advocates and clergy to interact with individuals and groups of residents.
- Supports residents’ needs and desires through 1:1 interaction, small group activity and large group meetings.
- Organizes resident activities into a clear format (calendars and other communication tools) as a resource residents and co-workers can refer to.
- Assists residents and guests to activities with the help of direct care staff.
- Arranges and coordinates off-site activity trips, when available and appropriate.
- Provides a venue for resident activism through the resident council process; communicates expressed desires and concerns of those residents to the CEO and appropriate department heads.Â
- Together with the Social Services Director, provides a venue for family involvement through the family council process.
- If assigned by resident leadership, takes comprehensive minutes at resident council meetings, and keeps files in safe, confidential storage, and assists with providing follow-up to concerns
- Develops and maintains community volunteer efforts.
- Fosters sense of community with the center environment.
- Supervises Activity Assistants, if any.
- Punctuality and regular attendance for assigned shifts.
Requirements
Qualifications
Education:Â Â
- BS in Recreation Therapy (preferred), Occupational Therapy, or a human services field; or,
- Associate degree in human service field, with relevant experience; or,
- High school diploma with two years of experience in social or recreational programming within the last five years, one of which was full-time in a patient activity program in a health care setting.  Â
Licenses/Certification:Â Â
- Certified Recreation Therapist; or,
- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant; or,
- Certified Activity Director (NCCAP or state-specific).
- Valid driver’s license
Experience:Â
- Six months experience in a long-term care environment preferred.
- One year in a patient setting in a health care environment required.
- Experience in management/administrative duties preferred.
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