Recreation Assistant (Resident Care)

The Role

To assist the Recreation Therapist in implementing and monitoring leisure activities and programs for the residents of Sunnyside Home; to work collaboratively with the Resident Care Team to provide complementary leisure activities to meet resident goals as identified in the resident's care plan.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Provides direct care and programming for the residents of Sunnyside Home.  Organizes and implements leisure activities designed specifically for program participants.
• Prepares regular reports on progress and behaviour of participants for the Team Leader, Resident Care or Registered Nurse.  Provides input to the Resident Care Team regarding resident needs.
• Monitors the leisure activities of residents, ensuring their safety at all times.  Works one on one or in groups with residents to assist them with leisure activities, which may involve transferring, toileting, and feeding.
• Assists the Recreation Therapist (Resident Care) by participating in special events, such as bus trips, outings, seasonal social events, teas and pub night.
• Serves meals/snacks and assists residents with eating during programming.  Feeds residents as directed.  Cleans residents as required following meals.
• Adapts leisure activities/programs provided to the specific needs of residents on a given shift and works collaboratively with the Registered Nurse on duty in making the changes required.
• Operates the Home's wheelchair accessible van for specific planned resident programs.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the aging process, specifically the stages, manifestations and behaviours of Alzheimer disease; as well as planning and implementing activities for cognitively impaired individuals, normally acquired through the attainment of a Community College Diploma in Recreation, or equivalent, with emphasis on Alzheimer Disease; plus directed related experience in implementing social and recreational programs.
• Ability to implement therapeutic programs, and adapt activities to level of functioning of individual participants.
• Ability to read articles, journals, and memos in order to remain up to date and participate in professional development activities.
• Ability to write reports, purchase requisitions, thank you notes, and to document behaviour, both in writing and through the use of a personal computer.
• Ability to communicate with cognitively impaired participants, requiring tact and patience and the use of specific communication techniques.  Contributes to in-service presentations.
• A tuberculosis (TB) test and annual influenza immunization are required.
• Human relations and communication skills sufficient to prevent and/or manage challenging behaviours.  Ability to exhibit understanding and empathy for the cognitively impaired and their families; to provide a calm, professional demeanor under stressful situations; and to provide support and participate as an effective member of a therapeutic team.
• Skill in the use of a personal computer and related software, such as Microsoft Word or Presentations.
• A valid class "F" driver's license and acceptable driving record are required in order to transport residents using a Regional van/bus.
• Must provide an acceptable Police Records Check in order to ensure suitability for working with vulnerable populations.
• Ability to support and project values compatible with the organization.