Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Activity Aide assists the Activity Coordinator in providing meaningful activities designed to meet the interests, physical, spiritual, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident, and reports residents’ progress to Activity Coordinator. The Activity Aide will ensure the safety and overall well-being of all residents.
REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
Education: Eighth grade education or equivalent
License/Certification: None upon hire, must attain CNA certification within 3 months of employment.
Experience: None required. Experience in a recreation setting preferred.
Personal Specifications: Must have a basic understanding of the needs of the ill elderly and have an empathetic approach to illness. Must have a willingness and an aptitude for working with a variety of people. Must have a basic knowledge of a variety of activities. Must exhibit the ability to give instruction to others and to lead. Must exhibit a spirit of cooperation and have a pleasant, friendly personality.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Provide one to one activities and sensory stimulation with passive non-alert and passive alert residents, confused residents, and residents who prefer not to participate in group activities.
2. Leads group activities as directed by the Activity Coordinator. Assist in planning activities when requested. Performs other tasks within the activity department as directed by the Activity Coordinator.
3. Provides coverage of the activity department when the Activity Coordinator is absent.
4. Must be able to work courteously and cooperatively with residents, staff, and visitors. Reports to Activity Coordinator on resident’s responses and/or progress to specific approaches utilized. May be requested to maintain a written record of same.
5. Must be able to work with older adults having limited capacities and various ailments.
6. Will be required to keep all professional and medical information confidential. Abides by established policies of the facility and licensing agencies.
7. Must be able to work flexible hours which will include some evenings and weekends. Is aware of the appropriate chain of command.
8. Recognizes abnormal signs and symptoms which signify a physical change in condition which would require nursing intervention.
9. Reports to Activity Coordinator on the functions of Activity Service under his/her direction.
10. Attends required inservice programs and staff meetings.
11. Aides Dietary department with meals in whatever capacity able.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS:
Primary Physical Requirements
LIFT up to 10 lbs.: Frequently required to lift various supplies.
LIFT over 50 lbs.: Occasionally to transfer resident from wheel chair with assistance of others and transfer belt.
CARRY up to 10 lbs.: Frequently required to lift and carry supplies used for recreational activities.
REACH above shoulder height: Required to reach cupboards or shelves for supplies.
REACH at shoulder height: Required for various jobs directing or demonstrating activity.
REACH below shoulder height: Required to assist resident in wheel chair.
PUSH/PULL: Required to assist people in wheel chairs/Geri-chairs daily.
Hand Manipulation
Grasping: Required constantly while documenting and while working with hobbies, crafts, exercise, etc.
Handling: Required constantly while documenting and while working with hobbies, crafts, exercise, etc.
Fingering: Required for day to day activities.
Controls & Equipment: May be required to operate an automobile, audio/video equipment, and taking phone calls.
Other Physical Considerations
Bending: Frequently required while working with seated residents at table to monitor or assist progress of resident.
Squatting: Frequently required while working with seated residents to monitor progress.
Kneeling: Frequently required while working with residents seated at tables.
Climbing: Occasionally required to climb stairs in facility or bus.
DURING AN 8 HOUR DAY, EMPLOYEE IS REQUIRED TO:
Consecutive Hours Total Hours
Sit less than 1 3
Stand less than 1 2
Walk less than 1 3
WORK SURFACE:
This is a somewhat physical position, as employee may be required to walk and stand on carpet, linoleum, or cement for extended periods of time.
COGNITIVE AND SENSORY REQUIREMENTS:
Talking: Constantly required during course of the day to communicate with residents and other staff workers.
Hearing: Required for communications.
Sight: Required when observing progress of resident.
SUMMARY OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES:
Blood borne Pathogens:
Tasks and procedures performed by employee involve risks classified by CDC as:
Category II (Activity performed without blood exposure but exposure may occur in emergency)
Refer to Exposure Control Plan for additional information.
OTHER CONSIDERATION AND REQUIREMENTS
Work Hazards: Must be alert to wet floors when they occur in facility. Risk of exposure to communicable diseases and physical abuse from residents.
Consequences of Action: Failure to comply with department and/or hospital policies will result in disciplinary action as outlined in the personnel policy manual.
This position requires 30 days’ notice of resignation.