Assistant - Programming

Benchmark Senior Living•Fairfield, CT

About The Position

The Programming/Activity Assistant organizes and implements programs designed to meet residents’ individual needs. Programming is intended to fulfill residents’ psychological, intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs while promoting self-esteem in a caring, nurturing environment. The assistant supports the Activity Director with programming and leads activities for residents, including elders and people with disabilities.

Requirements

High school diploma, bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience and knowledge of aging and disability issues.
Experience and training sufficient to develop programs appropriate for elders and disabled individuals.
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 activity program seven days a week.
Lead and implement one-on-one, small-group, and large-group activities according to the programming schedule.
Support, encourage, and direct residents’ 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 programming and activities.
Communicate changes in residents’ condition or behavior patterns to the Harbor Care Director.
Stay with the group at all times during excursions.