Activities Aide Optalis Leonard

Position Summary

The Activity Aide assists in planning, organizing, and implementing recreational, social, educational, and therapeutic activities that enhance the quality of life and well-being of residents. This position promotes resident engagement, independence, dignity, and social interaction while supporting the facility's mission and regulatory requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with the development and implementation of daily activity programs for residents.
• Encourage resident participation in individual and group activities.
• Transport residents to and from activities as needed using appropriate safety procedures.
• Set up and clean up activity areas, equipment, and supplies.
• Lead or assist with games, crafts, exercise programs, music, social events, and community outings.
• Visit residents who are unable or unwilling to attend group activities and provide one-on-one engagement.
• Document resident attendance, participation, and responses to activities.
• Assist in decorating the facility for holidays, special events, and resident celebrations.
• Maintain activity supplies, inventory, and equipment.
• Work collaboratively with nursing, rehabilitation, dietary, social services, and other departments to meet resident needs.
• Observe residents for changes in mood, behavior, or condition and report concerns promptly to nursing staff.
• Ensure activities are conducted in a safe, respectful, and inclusive manner.
• Follow infection control, safety, confidentiality, and resident rights policies.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

Experience

• Experience working with seniors, long-term care residents, memory care residents, or individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Previous customer service, hospitality, recreation, or activity programming experience is beneficial.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Compassionate, patient, and resident-focused approach.
• Ability to lead small groups and motivate participation.
• Creativity and enthusiasm for planning engaging activities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and communication.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently walk, stand, bend, reach, and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Push wheelchairs and transport residents safely throughout the facility.
• Ability to participate in recreational activities both indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations.

Working Conditions

• Long-term care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or assisted living environment.
• Exposure to residents with varying physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.
• May include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on activity schedules and special events.

Preferred Certifications

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification preferred but not required.
• Dementia training or experience preferred when serving memory care populations.

Job Goal

To enrich residents' lives by providing meaningful activities that support physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and cognitive well-being while fostering a vibrant and engaging community environment.