What are the responsibilities and job description for the Activities Assistant position at Estherville Community Care Center?
Job Title: Activities Assistant – Long-Term Care
Estherville Community Care Center: Estherville, Iowa
Job Summary
The Activities Assistant supports the planning and implementation of recreational, social, and therapeutic activities for residents in a long-term care facility. This role helps enhance residents' quality of life by promoting engagement, socialization, and emotional well-being.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in planning and conducting daily activity programs (games, crafts, music, exercise, etc.)
- Encourage resident participation in group and one-on-one activities
- Help transport residents to and from activities safely
- Set up and clean up activity areas and supplies
- Provide emotional support and companionship to residents
- Adapt activities to meet residents' physical, cognitive, and emotional needs
- Document resident attendance and participation
- Assist with special events, holiday celebrations, and outings
- Communicate residents' needs and changes to the Activities Director or nursing staff
- Maintain a safe, clean, and organized activity environment
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent (required)
- Experience in long-term care, recreation, or working with elderly individuals (preferred)
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification (sometimes preferred, not always required)
- Valid driver's license (may be required for outings)
Skills & Abilities
- Creativity and enthusiasm
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Patience, compassion, and empathy
- Ability to work with residents with dementia or cognitive impairments
- Organizational and time-management skills
- Ability to lead small and large group activities
Work Environment
- Nursing home or long-term care facility
- Indoor and occasional outdoor activities
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and assisting residents
Supervision
- Reports to Activities Director
- Works alongside nursing staff and other departments
Physical Requirements
- Ability to assist residents with mobility and transport
- Ability to lift, push, or pull (wheelchairs, activity equipment)
- Ability to stand and move for extended periods