The Lakes Senior Living

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Resident Engagement:

• Assist with planning and conducting daily activities and programs for Assisted Living and Memory Care residents.
• Encourage residents to participate in activities while respecting each resident's preferences and right to decline.
• Develop positive relationships with residents and learn their individual interests, hobbies, backgrounds, and preferences.
• Provide one-on-one engagement for residents who are unable or unwilling to participate in group activities.
• Encourage socialization and meaningful interaction among residents.
• Assist residents with transitioning safely to and from activity areas.
• Provide appropriate encouragement and redirection to residents experiencing confusion, anxiety, or behavioral changes.

Memory Care Responsibilities:

• Provide activities appropriate for residents living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
• Use simple instructions, repetition, visual cues, music, reminiscence, and sensory activities as appropriate.
• Maintain a calm, patient, and supportive approach when interacting with residents experiencing cognitive impairment.
• Recognize changes in a resident's mood, behavior, participation, or condition and report concerns to the appropriate supervisor.
• Avoid arguing or attempting to reason with residents who are experiencing confusion or disorientation.
• Promote dignity, independence, choice, and resident-centered care at all times.

Activity Preparation and Facilitation:

• Assist with preparing activity supplies, rooms, equipment, and materials before scheduled programs.
• Lead or assist with activities such as:
  • Arts and crafts.
  • Music and singing.
  • Exercise and stretching.
  • Games and trivia.
  • Bingo.
  • Reminiscence activities.
  • Reading.
  • Movies.
  • Gardening.
  • Cooking and baking activities.
  • Holiday and seasonal programs.
  • Religious/spiritual programs as scheduled.
  • Outdoor activities.
  • Social events and celebrations.
• Assist with resident birthday celebrations and special events.
• Assist with decorating common areas for holidays, special events, and resident programs.
• Maintain activity supplies and notify the Life Enrichment Director when supplies need to be replaced.

Resident Safety:

• Maintain awareness of residents' mobility, cognitive, and supervision needs during activities.
• Follow all community safety procedures and resident care plans.
• Ensure activity areas are clean, organized, and free of hazards.
• Do not leave residents unattended when supervision is required.
• Report accidents, injuries, behavioral concerns, or changes in resident condition immediately to the appropriate supervisor.
• Follow infection-control and sanitation procedures when conducting activities involving food, shared equipment, or supplies.
• Follow emergency procedures and community policies at all times.

Documentation:

• Assist with maintaining accurate activity attendance and participation records.
• Document resident participation and engagement as required by community policy.
• Report significant changes in resident behavior, participation, mood, or condition to the Life Enrichment Director or appropriate care staff.
• Assist with maintaining required activity calendars, schedules, and documentation.

Teamwork and Communication:

• Work cooperatively with Caregiving, MedTech, Wellness, Dining, Housekeeping, Maintenance, and other departments.
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with residents, families, visitors, and coworkers.
• Attend required staff meetings, in-services, and training.
• Follow the direction of the Life Enrichment Director and community leadership.
• Maintain confidentiality of resident information.
• Demonstrate professionalism and a positive attitude while representing the community.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Previous experience working with seniors, Assisted Living, Memory Care, or individuals with dementia preferred.
• Previous activities, recreation, caregiving, or customer-service experience preferred.
• Experience with Alzheimer's disease and dementia is strongly preferred.
• Must demonstrate patience, compassion, dependability, and a genuine interest in working with older adults.
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Must be able to safely assist residents with participation in activities within the scope of the position and community policy.
• Must meet all applicable employment and community requirements.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Bend, stoop, reach, and move throughout the community.
• Lift and carry activity supplies and equipment as required.
• Assist with setting up and cleaning activity areas.
• Assist residents with safe participation in activities within the scope of the position.
• Respond appropriately to resident needs and emergency situations.

PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS:

• Treat every resident with dignity, respect, kindness, and compassion.
• Protect resident privacy and confidentiality.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
• Arrive on time and be prepared to perform assigned duties.
• Complete assigned shifts and responsibilities reliably.
• Follow all community policies, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Maintain a positive and supportive attitude.
• Promote a homelike environment where residents feel valued, included, and respected.