General Purpose The Activities Assistant supports the planning, organization, and delivery of recreational, therapeutic, and social programs for residents in a skilled nursing facility. Working under the supervision of the Activities Director, the Activities Assistant helps promote residents' physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being by encouraging engagement, meaningful activity participation, and socialization. This role contributes to enhancing residents' quality of life while respecting individual preferences, abilities, and rights. Responsibilities Program Delivery Assist in organizing and leading daily group and individual activities, including games, music, arts and crafts, exercise and fitness programs, outings, and special events. Encourage resident participation and adapt activities to meet individual needs, interests, and functional abilities. Assist with setting up, operating, and cleaning up activity areas, equipment, and supplies. Escort and accompany residents to and from activity programs and outings as needed. Assist with decorating the facility for holidays, themed events, and special occasions. Documentation & Communication Record resident attendance and level of participation in activities accurately and timely. Observe and report changes in residents' behavior, mood, physical condition, or cognitive abilities to the Activities Director or nursing staff. Assist with the creation, distribution, and posting of monthly activity calendars, newsletters, and promotional materials. Resident Support Build positive, respectful relationships with residents by providing companionship, encouragement, and emotional support. Respect and support residents 'rights, privacy, dignity, cultural preferences, and individuality at all times. Provide one-on-one visits and individualized activities for residents who are unable or unwilling to participate in group programs. Team Collaboration Work cooperatively with nursing, dietary, therapy, and social services staff to support holistic, person-centered care. Participate in staff meetings, care conferences as requested and required in-service education and training. Maintain activity supplies and equipment; notify the Activities Director of inventory needs and replacement requests. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required. Certified Nursing Assistant required. Previous experience in activities, recreation, or direct resident care in a long-term care or healthcare setting preferred. Genuine interest in working with older adults and individuals with varying physical and cognitive abilities. Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to follow direction, work independently, and function effectively as part of a team. Basic computer skills for documentation and calendar preparation preferred. Ability to obtain and maintain any required state or facility-specific training or certifications. Regular and reliable attendance is required to perform the essential functions of this position. Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move frequently throughout the workday. Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 25 pounds. Manual dexterity and visual acuity sufficient to prepare materials and assist residents with activities. Flexible schedule required, including occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays. Work performed in both indoor and outdoor environments; may involve exposure to variable weather conditions during outings. Work Environment The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. Works in a healthcare facility environment with regular interaction between administrative staff, clinical teams, residents, and families Fast-paced setting that requires responsiveness to time-sensitive needs and regulatory requirements Collaborative environment with frequent coordination across departments (nursing, billing, administration, and external vendors) Structured and compliance-driven workplace with strict adherence to healthcare regulations, confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA), and documentation standards Requires adaptability and professionalism when handling sensitive situations involving residents, families, and care staff Disclaimer Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.