ACTIVITIES ASSISTANT SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS

Updated: Nov 6, 2024 - The Activities Assistant is tasked with crafting and overseeing programs that meet the social, psychological, and recreational needs of older adults in a continuum of care campus. This role requires a robust set of skills including strong organizational abilities, excellent verbal and written communication, and a genuine caring attitude towards the elderly. Additionally, the position demands flexibility with availability on weekends, evenings, and holidays, ensuring consistent engagement and support for residents in various conditions and times.

Essential Hard and Soft Skills for a Standout Activities Assistant Resume
  • Event Planning
  • CPR Certification
  • Budgeting
  • Computer Skills
  • Record Keeping
  • Therapeutic Techniques
  • Safety Regulations
  • AV Technology
  • Adaptation Skills
  • Regulatory Knowledge
  • Effective Communication
  • Empathy
  • Creativity
  • Social Skills
  • Patience
  • Problem Solving
  • Flexibility
  • Organizational Skills
  • Leadership
  • Compassion

Summary of Activities Assistant Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume

1. BS in Recreation Management with 3 years of Experience

  • Some certification or education related to the MEPAP training courses.
  • Basic computer skills and knowledge of MDS standards.
  • Experience working in long-term care 
  • Must have the aptitude for and some training in arts and crafts
  • Possess the ability to plan, organize, and provide leadership
  • Possess the ability to initiate new programs and problem solve
  • Able to interact positively with community resources and coordinate programs
  • Ability to use basic computer skills (email, documentation, flyers, etc.)
  • Ability to drive the facility bus, use the lift and other functions to transport residents
  • Assisted living or memory care experience.
  • Strong communication, personnel, community relations, and computer skills.
  • Ability to pass a background and drug screens.

2. BS in Therapeutic Recreation with 1 year of Experience

  • Demonstrates excellent listening skills and communicates effectively while conveying patience and understanding.
  • Be able to clearly and appropriately communicate information with residents, family members, and team members.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of The Garlands' entire facility and directs customer appropriately, according to their needs.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak well enough to provide written documentation, read and understand policies, procedures and communications, and communicate effectively with other employees/ residents.
  • Prior experience providing activities or other types of group treatment.
  • Prior experience in Mental Health.
  • Previous experience in long term care 
  • Must be qualified by experience and training to develop programs appropriate for elders and disabled individuals.
  • Possesses training and knowledge in recreational activities
  • Possesses training and knowledge of Alzheimer’s and related dementias
  • Maintains a high level of confidentiality regarding residents, staff, and the community
  • Shows an ability to relate to and perform job functions for the elderly in a positive and efficient manner

3. BS in Event Management with 2 years of Experience

  • Possesses good time management and organizational skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills to perform the tasks
  • Possesses good interpersonal communication skills
  • Ability to work harmoniously with other employees and develop/maintain good employee relations and employee morale
  • Must work a full shift, come to work on time, and work overtime 
  • Ability to work according to the necessary schedule to meet job requirements with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Previous experience in memory care, senior living, hospice, in-home health care, skilled nursing experience, or a therapeutic recreation and / or senior activities role
  • Experience with event planning and creating a monthly activity calendar for Resident programs
  • Ability to complete initial assessments to identify resident's interests
  • Actively express compassion for residents, staff, and guests

4. BS in Hospitality Management with 2 years of Experience

  • Ability to drive in all weather conditions in a safe way.
  • Availability to work on weekends, evenings, and holiday
  • Must have an understanding of the social, psychological and recreational needs of older adults on a continuum of care campus and must be able to plan and organize activities geared to these needs.
  • Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition and enthusiasm and must be able to work effectively with people.
  • Must possess strong organization and verbal and written communication skills
  • Must have the ability to read, write and follow oral and written directions at a level necessary to accomplish the job.
  • Must have a genuine interest and caring for the elderly.
  • Must be able to relate positively to residents and family and to work cooperatively with other employees.
  • Must be capable of maintaining regular attendance.
  • Must meet all federal, state and local health regulations and pass a post-employment-offer physical exam. 
  • Must be able to perform the essential functions of this job, with or without accommodation.
  • Shows a consistent ability to coordinate multiple tasks, demonstrates a positive attitude, and works well under pressure

5. BS in Recreational Therapy with 2 years of Experience

  • Experience working in senior living environment, and/or social activity leadership
  • Previous experience working with the elderly in a residential or long-term care setting
  • Must meet all health-related requirements pertaining to state licensure
  • Must maintain current CPR/First Aid credentials
  • Must maintain current Food Handlers credentials
  • Must maintain annual Continuing Education Credits
  • Professional driving experience in the operation of a bus or van used for transporting clients 
  • Ability to obtain a Commercial Drivers License within specified timeframe after hire 
  • Previous experience working with seniors in a senior living environment 
  • Ability to establish effective relationships with residents, family, and team members
  • Proficiency in basic computer skills, including Word and Excel 
  • Ability to read, comprehend, write, and speak English to communicate effectively with residents, families, guests and other team members
  • Subject to pre-employment screening including physical, TB testing and criminal clearance

6. BA in Psychology with 3 years of Experience

  • Working knowledge of basic Microsoft /computer programs.
  • Ability to interact effectively and empathetically with senior living residents/tenants.
  • Must have good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Must be comfortable leading activities with elderly residents.
  • Previous experience either, working with the elderly, leading activities, or working in a therapy or recreation role preferred or have formal related education.
  • Work experience in a customer service setting.
  • Prior related experience working with seniors
  • Solid work history with excellent attendance and punctuality
  • Ability to respect all members of the healthcare team
  • A positive attitude, energy and passion for working with the elderly
  • Patience, understanding and compassion for those requiring care
  • Flexible schedule with the ability to work evenings, weekends and holidays

7. BA in Social Work with 6 years of Experience

  • Experience in resident activities in a long term care setting.
  • Some background in music, arts, exercise, sports, group leadership.
  • Approved CPR certification and exceptional customer service.
  • Some knowledge of religious practices and cultural backgrounds.
  • Ability to work effectively as a team member.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize tasks and complete within given time frame.
  • Ability to work under pressure and maintain a positive attitude.
  • Must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the residents serviced in his/her assigned area. 
  • Must be able to complete job duties in a self-directed manner and to coordinate the schedules and activities of several volunteers to accomplish priorities with a heavy workload and wide variety of work responsibilities.
  • Interpersonal skills necessary to deal with a variety of residents and their families, hospital and department personnel at all levels, visitors, volunteers and the public. 
  • Must be able to observe, report, and document observations accurately.
  • Demonstrate sound judgment and common sense.
  • Have knowledge of adaptive equipment and be able to adapt activities to assist residents in being successful and find pleasure in doing activities