Activities Assistant →

Optalis Healthcare; Grand Rapids (MI); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Optalis Healthcare is seeking an Activities Assistant to join our Activities Department at a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility. You will help plan and run engaging programs that promote residents’ physical, mental, and social well-being, and provide meaningful interaction.

You will support group activities, one-on-one visits, outings, and celebrations, while respecting care plans and individual interests.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in activities, recreation, healthcare, senior living, or customer service preferred.
• Experience with geriatric residents or memory care preferred.
• CTRS or MEPAP training is a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Creative, energetic, compassionate, and dependable personality.
• Basic computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, organizing, and implementing daily activity programs for residents.
• Lead and support group activities, one-on-one visits, games, crafts, music, exercise programs, and special events.
• Encourage resident participation while respecting individual interests, abilities, and care plans.
• Assist with community outings, holiday events, and entertainment programs as assigned.
• Prepare activity areas, distribute supplies, and assist with cleanup after programs.
• Document resident participation and attendance according to facility procedures.
• Build positive relationships with residents, families, visitors, and team members.
• Support residents with mobility and transportation to and from activities when needed.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment during all activities.
• Follow infection control guidelines, resident rights, and facility safety policies.
• Assist with decorating for seasonal events and facility celebrations.
• Communicate resident needs and concerns to the Activities Director and interdisciplinary team.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Creativity

Energetic

Compassionate

Dependable

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

CTRS training

MEPAP training

Job description

The Activities Assistant supports the Activities Department in providing engaging, therapeutic, and recreational programs for residents within the skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility. This role helps promote residents’ physical, mental, emotional, and psychosocial well-being through meaningful activities and positive social interaction.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, organizing, and implementing daily activity programs for residents.
• Lead and support group activities, one-on-one visits, games, crafts, music, exercise programs, and special events.
• Encourage resident participation while respecting individual interests, abilities, and care plans.
• Assist with community outings, holiday events, and entertainment programs as assigned.
• Prepare activity areas, distribute supplies, and assist with cleanup after programs.
• Document resident participation and attendance according to facility procedures.
• Build positive relationships with residents, families, visitors, and team members.
• Support residents with mobility and transportation to and from activities when needed.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment during all activities.
• Follow infection control guidelines, resident rights, and facility safety policies.
• Assist with decorating for seasonal events and facility celebrations.
• Communicate resident needs and concerns to the Activities Director and interdisciplinary team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience in activities, recreation, healthcare, senior living, or customer service preferred.
• Experience working with geriatric residents or individuals with memory care needs preferred.
• CTRS or MEPAP training is a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Creative, energetic, compassionate, and dependable personality.
• Basic computer skills required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and assist residents throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift and move activity supplies and equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to push wheelchairs and transport residents safely.
• Ability to participate in indoor and outdoor activities.

Schedule

• Evening, weekend, and holiday availability may be required based on resident programming needs.

Working Conditions

• Skilled nursing and rehabilitation healthcare environment.
• Frequent interaction with elderly residents, including residents with dementia or cognitive impairments.
• Possible exposure to infectious diseases with appropriate PPE and infection control procedures.

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