Activity/Recreation Assistant

Benchmark Senior Living•Scotch Plains, NJ

9d•$19 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Benchmark at Scotch Plains is seeking a compassionate Programming/Activity Assistant to organize and implement programs that meet residents’ individual needs. Programming is designed to support residents’ psychological, intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs and promote self-esteem in a caring, nurturing environment. The assistant supports the Activity Director with programming and helps build the culture and resident experience at the new Scotch Plains community.

Requirements

High school diploma, bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience and knowledge of aging and disability issues.
Experience and training qualifying the candidate to develop programs appropriate for elders and individuals with disabilities.
Training and knowledge in recreational activities.
Training and knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Maintain a high level of confidentiality regarding residents, staff, and the community.
Ability to coordinate multiple tasks, maintain a positive attitude, and work well under pressure.

Responsibilities

Assist in developing and implementing an engaging seven-day-a-week activity program.
Lead and implement one-on-one, small-group, and large-group activities according to the programming schedule.
Support, encourage, and direct independent activity pursuits, individually and in small groups.
Support residents’ abilities by recognizing that all aspects of care can be viewed as an activity.
Understand residents’ backgrounds, participation needs, physical abilities, interests, cognitive capacity, and attention spans.
Encourage and motivate residents to attend and participate in programs and activities.
Communicate changes in residents’ condition or behavior patterns to the Harbor Care Director.
Remain with the group at all times during excursions.
Support and assist the Activity Director with necessary programming.