Activities Aide (nursing home)

Career Strategies; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Growth opportunities

Supportive team

Job summary

Career Strategies is seeking a compassionate Activities Aide for a skilled nursing facility in Chicago North. You will plan, lead, and support daily activities to enhance residents' quality of life and engage seniors in social, educational, and therapeutic pursuits.

The role emphasizes creativity, teamwork with nursing staff, and strong communication. This is a full-time position with opportunities for growth within a supportive team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in activities, recreation, healthcare, senior living, or customer service preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; compassionate and patient.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead daily activity programs for residents.
• Lead group and one-on-one activities including games, crafts, music, exercise.
• Maintain calendars, attendance records, and required documentation.
• Observe resident mood and report changes to the Activities Director.
• Collaborate with nursing staff to meet social and emotional needs.
• Ensure activity areas are clean, safe, and well organized.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Compassion and patience

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

We are seeking a compassionate, energetic, and dependable Activities Aide to join our team at a skilled nursing facility in Chicago North. The Activities Aide will help plan, organize, and lead recreational, social, educational, and therapeutic activities that enhance the quality of life for our residents. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with seniors, is creative, and is passionate about making a positive difference every day.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning and implementing daily activity programs for residents
• Lead group and one-on-one activities, including games, crafts, music, exercise, outings, and special events
• Encourage resident participation and provide support based on individual needs and abilities
• Transport residents to and from activities as needed
• Maintain activity calendars, attendance records, and required documentation
• Assist in decorating and preparing for seasonal events, holidays, and resident celebrations
• Work closely with nursing staff and other departments to meet residents’ social and emotional needs
• Ensure activity areas are clean, organized, and safe
• Observe and report any changes in residents’ mood, behavior, or participation to the Activities Director

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Previous experience in activities, recreation, healthcare, senior living, or customer service preferred
• Experience working with elderly or disabled individuals is a plus
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Positive attitude, patience, and compassion
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Must be able to lift, bend, push wheelchairs, and stand for extended periods
• Must pass background check and any required pre-employment screenings

Schedule

• Full-time
• Weekend and holiday availability may be required
• Flexible schedule based on resident programming needs
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for growth and advancement
• Supportive team environment