Assistant - Programming

Benchmark Senior Living•Barnstable, MA

About The Position

The Programming Assistant organizes and implements programs designed to meet residents’ individual needs and support their psychological, intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being while promoting self-esteem in a caring, nurturing environment. The position supports and assists the Programming Director with programming and uses equipment safely when planning or implementing activities. For Harbor memory care, the role also requires knowledge and training related to Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, ongoing educational development in these areas, sensitivity to the needs of residents’ families, and familiarity with the Harbor Family Handbook. The position includes close interaction with residents and may involve exposure to communicable diseases or verbal or physical agitation or aggression. Safety concerns should be reported as directed in the Employee Handbook.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent experience and knowledge of aging and disability issues.
Qualified through experience and training to develop programs appropriate for elders and individuals with disabilities.
Valid driver’s license.
Familiarity and experience using a wide variety of equipment related to recreational programs for elders and individuals with disabilities, including craft supplies, VCR, stereo, stove, and food-preparation equipment.
Maintain a high level of confidentiality regarding residents, staff, and the community.
Ability to relate to older adults and perform job functions for them in a positive and efficient manner.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred.
For Harbor memory care, training and knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, and willingness to pursue further educational development in these areas.

Responsibilities

Assist with developing and implementing an innovative daily program for residents.
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.
Communicate changes in residents’ conditions or behavior patterns to the Program Director or a nurse.
Respond to emergencies and personal emergency response systems, and know when to call for backup.
Handle difficult resident behaviors effectively and respond calmly and effectively in emergencies.
Document and maintain accurate records as appropriate.
Communicate and document residents’ material needs, such as briefs, clothing, toothpaste, and pads.
Complete incident reports accurately before the end of the working day.
Demonstrate knowledge of Benchmark Standards and Practices and working knowledge of state regulations.
Participate in training and in-service sessions as required by Benchmark and state regulations.
Participate in local community activities and professional associations, representing the community positively and supporting awareness and marketing.
For Harbor memory care, pursue educational development in Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders; demonstrate relevant knowledge; respond professionally and sensitively to families’ emotional stress related to a loved one’s dementia; and know the policies in the Harbor Family Handbook.
Immediately report safety concerns as directed in the Employee Handbook.