Activity Assistant

Experience 

• Must have, as a minimum, two (2) year(s) experience in a social or recreation program within the last five (5) years, one (1) of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting; or 

• Must be a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant; or 

• Must have completed a training course approved by the state. 

Specific Requirements 

• Must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language. 

• Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action. 

• Must be knowledgeable of regulations governing activities services in nursing care facilities. 

• Must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age-related needs of the residents served. 

• Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel and the general public. 

• Must possess leadership ability and willingness to work harmoniously with and supervise other personnel. 

• Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition and enthusiasm as well as be willing to handle residents based on whatever maturity level at which they are currently functioning. 

• Must possess the ability to seek out new methods and principles and be willing to incorporate them into existing activities services. 

• Must be a member in good standing in the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW). 

• Must be able to relate information concerning a resident’s condition. 

• Must not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace. 

Physical and Sensory Requirements (with or without the aid of mechanical devices) 

• Must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday. 

• Must be able to speak and write the English language in an understandable manner. 

• Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position. 

• Must possess sight/hearing senses or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met. 

• Must function independently and have flexibility, personal integrity and the ability to work effectively with residents, personnel and support agencies. 

• Must meet the general health requirements set forth by the policies of this facility which include a medical and physical examination. 

• Must be able to relate to and work with ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset and, at times, hostile people within the facility. 

• Must be able to push, pull, move and/or lift a minimum of 25 pounds to a minimum height of 5 feet and be able to push, pull, move and/or carry such weight a minimum distance of 50 feet. 

• May be necessary to assist in the evacuation of residents during emergency situations.