JOB TITLE: Activities Specialist for Assisted Living – Memory Support Neighborhood
DEPARTMENT: Activities – Choices Programs
MAIN FUNCTION: The main function of this position is to plan and facilitate activity programs for residents of the Highlands Assisted Living Memory Support Neighborhood. The job involves growing existing programs and implementing new ideas in the areas of the seven dimensions of wellness.
REPORTS TO: Director of Activities - Choices Programs
SUPERVISES: Residents and volunteer involvement in programs and projects.
A review of this job description has excluded the marginal functions of the position. However, employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Plan and implement activities for residents in Assisted Living Memory Support Neighborhood based on information from a variety of assessments. Programming should address residents with neurocognitive disorders needs and interests and should build on individual abilities and strengths while taking into consideration individual challenges.
Responsible for creative and innovative ideas that keep residents living at their highest possible functioning using the 7 dimensions of wellness to balance program and event offerings.
Develop personal relationships with neighborhood residents, learning and understanding their stories, responding to changing choices, meeting their preferences, wants and needs.
Work closely with Care Partners and cross-departmentally to provide the most beneficial quality of life for the residents in the Assisted Living Memory Support Neighborhood.
Confidently design calendars, flyers, and update Touchtown display to attract maximum participation.
Market programs and events creatively to motivate residents who need extra encouragement to participate.
Gather residents for programs & provide instruction, motivation and assistance with programs and projects.
Work closely with supervisor to request supplies as necessary for programs and projects within a budget set by supervisor.
Attend and report progress updates in care plan meetings, resident assessment meetings, and/or family conferences.
Maintain attendance records of activity programs for resident participation.
Assist with animal and plant care as assigned.
Plan and implement outings and special events.
Attend and participate in Activity program team meetings, meetings with supervisor, and other meetings as necessary.
Complete all assigned Relias Learning training in a timely manner. Responsible to attend and track 10 hours of activity training/in-services per year and/or 12 hours of dementia related training/in-services per year as required by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Responsible for learning set-up requests, e-catering, room reservation system, Touchtown, and operation of audio visual equipment.
Responsible to use computers and software as required by work environment in order to enhance communications, performance and knowledge such as Caremerge, Touchtown, Relias, MyUnity, Microsoft Office, and other potential software
Complete other appropriate tasks as assigned by supervisor.
Is aware of Presbyterian Homes Corporate Compliance policies including those having to do with confidentiality and security of information, and concern for the well being of residents and patients. Demonstrates behaviors and completes work in a manner consistent with these policies.
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree in fields related to Human Services. Certified Dementia Practitioner or Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist recommended. 36 Hour Activity Director Course a plus.
EXPERIENCE: Previous experience with older adults and group work required.
QUALIFICATIONS: Leadership attributes and strong self-starter a must.
Strong knowledge of dementia related illnesses.
Ability to work with older adults in groups and 1:1 settings.
Knowledge of planning and implementation process for programs.
Pro-actively help team come up with ideas; actively challenge and inspire the team.
Comfortable to work independently and as part of a team.
Creative, initiative, energetic, & positive attitude.
Ability to chart and assess per government regulations.
Ability to meet changing conditions and challenges.
Computer skills, willingness to learn and use audio visual technology.
Able to work assigned schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays.
CONTACTS: Residents, staff, volunteers, family, visitors and community.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Standing much of the day. Ability to push wheelchairs.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work in Assisted Living Memory Support & Health Care setting.
HAZARDS: Lifting, pushing wheelchairs, art and cleaning supplies.