An activities director organizes, manages, and leads recreational and therapeutic programs to enhance the physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being of residents in skilled nursing facilities.
Role and Responsibilities
An activities director is responsible for planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating activity programs tailored to the interests, abilities, and needs of residents. Key duties include:
- Program Planning: Creating a recurring schedule of group and individual activities, including arts, crafts, exercise, educational programs, outings, and entertainment.
- Resident Engagement: Assessing resident preferences, encouraging participation, and providing one-on-one support when needed.
- Staff Supervision: Training, supervising, and coordinating activity assistants and volunteers to ensure programs are delivered effectively.
- Documentation: Maintaining records of resident participation, attendance, and behavioral observations, and contributing to care planning meetings.
- Compliance and Safety: Ensuring activities meet state and federal regulations, coordinating transportation for off-site activities, and enforcing safety rules.
Qualifications and Training
While formal education is not always required, an activities director should be caring, patient, and skilled in working with elderly or disabled populations. Regulatory requirements may include:
- High school diploma or equivalent for new hires.
- Completion of a 36-hour basic orientation course within 180 days of employment if not a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Occupational Therapist, or Licensed Social Worker.
- Experience in social or recreational programs, or therapeutic activities, is preferred.
Regulatory and Program Standards
Facilities must provide an ongoing program of activities that supports residents’ physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being, coordinated with other services. Activity staff time is calculated based on the number of residents, with a minimum of 45 minutes per resident per week dedicated to planning and providing activities. Programs should be individualized, promoting independence, social interaction, and quality of life ( nursinghome411.org).
Impact on Residents
A skilled activities director can significantly improve residents’ quality of life by offering meaningful engagement, promoting self-esteem, and supporting cognitive and physical health. Activities are designed to be inclusive, adaptable to limitations, and aligned with each resident’s care plan.
The activities director is a central figure in enhancing the daily life of residents in skilled nursing facilities, combining program management, resident care, staff supervision, and regulatory compliance to create a vibrant and supportive environment.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Computer skills: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
