Activities Assistant

Job Title

Activities Assistant – Skilled Nursing Facility

Summary

The Activities Assistant supports the life enrichment / recreational program within a skilled nursing facility, enhancing residents' physical, emotional, social and spiritual well-being. Working under the supervision of the Activities Director (or Life Enrichment Director), this role helps plan, implement, document, and evaluate a variety of individual and group activities tailored to the residents' needs, capabilities and interests.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Some core responsibilities include:

• Plan, set up, and facilitate scheduled group activities (e.g., crafts, games, music, exercise, social events, outings) and individual activities for residents.
• Visit and engage bedbound or less mobile residents individually with activities, socialization, conversation, and support to prevent isolation.
• Assist residents in participating in activities: escorting/transporting to/from activity areas, helping with equipment or materials.
• Help develop monthly or weekly activity calendar (under supervision) and communicate it to residents, families & staff.
• Monitor, document and report residents' participation, mood, behavior, engagement and progress in activities; help revise activity plans as needed.
• Coordinate with nursing, therapy, social work, and volunteers to ensure the activity program aligns with resident care plans and regulatory requirements (state/federal).
• Prepare activity materials, set up and clean activity areas, maintain equipment/supplies, help decorate for holidays, special events.
• Encourage resident participation and promote socialization and a sense of community.
• Assist with special events, outings, volunteer coordination, maybe resident council meetings.
• Ensure compliance with facility policies, safety regulations, infection control standards.
• May support or step in for the Activities Director in their absence (depending on facility).

Required & Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent).
• Strong interpersonal, communication and teamwork skills (ability to engage residents, families and staff).
• Ability to work flexible shifts (including some weekends, holidays) since activities often happen during nontraditional hours.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and activity tracking.

Preferred / Ideal:

• Previous experience in longterm care, skilled nursing facility, or activities/recreation role.
• Experience with residents living with dementia/Alzheimer's or memory care setting.
• Relevant certification (e.g., CPR/BLS, activity director/assistant certificate, recreational therapy credentials).
• Creativity, patience, empathy, ability to adapt activities to varying cognitive and physical levels.