Summary: Works with the facility Activity Department to ensure and develop activity programming to meet the needs of a diverse resident population in accordance with State and Federal regulations, and company policies. Assists with education, orientation, and survey preparation/ management for the region under the guidance and direction of the Regional Director of Social Services.

Qualifications:
Education :

• BS in Recreation Therapy preferred or
• Bachelor’s degree in human service field, with relevant experience* or
  
• BS in Occupational Therapy, with relevant experience or
  
• Certification as Occupational Therapy Assistant, with relevant experience* or
  
• Associate degree in human service field, with relevant experience *or
  

Certified Activity Director (NCCAP or state-specific) Licenses/Certification:

• Certified Recreation Therapist preferred or
• Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant or
  
• Certified Activity Director (NCCAP or state specific)
  
• [It is recommended that the hiring entity provide opportunities for national certification .]
  

Experience:

• 3-5 of experience in social or recreational programming in a health care setting.
• Experience in management/administrative duties preferred
  

Essential Functions:

• Provides education, training, and support to appropriate facility staff to facilitate improved resident care and outcomes associated with their essential function/duties listed below. Educates all staff members on approaches and models as needed.
• Performs comprehensive assessment for each resident to determine related diagnosis, level of abilities combined with past and current interests.; develops an individualized program of activity pursuits that are meaningful to the resident.
• Develops and utilizes a budget sufficient to maintain equipment and purchase supplies, enabling staff to provide prescribed activity models.
• Utilizes the “biopsychosocial” model to create meaningful activities for individuals.
• Assists in evaluating efficacy of interventions for nursing and physician action.
• Develops a variety of activity “tracks” to appeal to a heterogeneous resident population, including assorted lifestyle desires (such as individuals who prefer self-initiated activities), cultural diversity and age-appropriate choices.
• Arranges and coordinates off-site activity trips, when available or appropriate.
• .Fosters sense of community with the center environment.
• Collaborates with social services personnel in developing intervention strategies for residents with evident psychosocial concerns
  
• Consults with Interdisciplinary Team on residents who may have behavioral disturbance or symptoms of a mood disorder, making recommendations based on observed and documented interests and needs.
• Ensures all resident activity documentation is complete, and reflects analysis of effectiveness and reaches a conclusion on how to proceed with plan of care.
• Utilizes Quality Indicators/Quality Measures Report to evaluate program efficacy for individuals and overall performance; makes program changes when needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Skill in team building, collaborating with other disciplines
• Articulate writing skills
  
• Good oral communication techniques
  
• Ability to assess resident moods and revise approach accordingly
  
• Willing to advocate for resident needs and desires, protect resident rights
  
• Knowledge in variety of activity approaches
  
• Willingness to learn about areas that impact resident population, i.e. dementia
  
• Builds rapport easily
  
• Enjoys working with diverse populations
  
• Desire to improve, learn new methods
  
• Ability to maintain confidentiality