Assistant - Programming

Benchmark Senior Living•Barnstable, MA

2d•$18 - $19

About The Position

The Programming Assistant organizes and implements programs designed to meet residents’ individual needs, including psychological, intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs, while promoting self-esteem in a caring, nurturing environment. The role supports and assists the Programming Director with programming and uses equipment safely when planning or implementing activities. The position develops and leads resident activities, supports independent pursuits, recognizes residents’ abilities and individual needs, communicates changes in condition or behavior, responds to emergencies, manages difficult behaviors, and completes documentation and incident reports. It also includes participating in required training, demonstrating knowledge of applicable standards and regulations, and representing the community positively in local community activities and professional associations. For Harbor memory care programming, the role requires knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, continued educational development in these areas, sensitivity to families’ emotional needs, and familiarity with the Harbor Family Handbook. The work involves activity equipment and resident mobility assistance, and may include exposure to communicable diseases and resident agitation or aggressive behavior.

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 people with disabilities, including craft supplies, VCR, stereo, stove, and food-preparation equipment.
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding residents, staff, and the community.
Ability to relate to older adults and perform job functions for them positively and efficiently.
For Harbor memory care: training and knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, and understanding of the emotional stress experienced by families of people with dementia.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist in 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 viewing all aspects of care as potential activities.
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 react calmly in emergencies.
Document and maintain accurate records as appropriate.
Communicate and document residents’ material needs.
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-services as required by Benchmark and state regulations.
Participate in local community activities and professional associations, representing the community positively and supporting awareness and marketing.
Pursue educational development in Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, demonstrate relevant knowledge, respond sensitively to families, and know the policies in the Harbor Family Handbook.