Enrichment Specialist

Job Summary:

Plan and conduct group and individual activities based on resident preferences.  Perform various resident care activities and related basic hygiene tasks necessary in caring for the personal needs and comfort of residents.

Job Standards:

• Follow/adhere to the Code of Conduct

• Follow/adhere to organization, federal/state regulations and guidelines, including Resident Rights

• Maintain neatness, cleanliness, good personal hygiene, and a well groomed appearance, adhering to dress code of the department

• Perform job duties without posing a threat to the health/safety of themselves or others

• Maintain sound mental and physical health and strength

• Must be free of communicable diseases

• Exhibit the Core Values of Messiah Lifeways

• Assume accountability for compliance with federal, state and local regulations within the assigned duties and within his or her span of control

• Will assume responsibility to ensure secure handling of information, and will adhere to HIPAA Privacy and Security standards

• Recognize your role as part of the QAPI efforts of your organization and attend training to build understanding and capacity to undertake QAPI work

• Carry out QAPI roles and responsibilities as assigned

• Look for and share with leadership ideas for improvement in the organization

• Work from home ability: never

Job Duties/Responsibilities:

• Plan, organize, and lead group person-centered, meaningfuling, and age appropriate programs

• Develop a calendar of programming that meets all areas of wellness (physical, social, spiritual, emotional, vocational) for residents of all functional levels in a variety of individual and group settings, meeting Federal and State regulations

• Motivate and assist residents to become part of neighborhood life if they choose so

• Request volunteers as needed for programs and projects with the assistance from manager.  Provide direction and guidance to volunteers assigned to programs

• Plan and accompany residents on activity related trips outside Messiah Lifeways

• Encourage resident participation in activity programs and offer assistance with transport and/or assist residents to and from programs

• Work with manager to request and/or purchase supplies needed to carry out program and maintain neighborhood enrichment budget 

• Document resident activity participation in electronic record accurately and timely 

• Assist residents during mealtimes while engaging them in opportunities for socialization with fellow residents and team members.

• Perform tasks related to personal hygiene and physical comfort of residents as needed or requested

• Assist residents to/from physician visits, therapy, beauty shop, other facilities as needed or assigned

• Report any observed change in a resident’s physical condition, attitude or appetite to the clinic team. 

• Perform routine pet care if applicable

• Maintain tidiness of activity areas, office areas, and activity storage areas.

• Ensure neighborhood decorations are seasonal, appropriate, and adhere to the aesthetics policy

• Report needed repairs and equipment failure to manager

• Follow emergency procedures and respond rapidly and appropriately to emergencies ensuring the safety of the residents and team members

• Maintain safety of residents and be aware medical restrictions and guidance provided by the infection preventionist during all activities

• Follow proper safety procedures and utilize devices/equipment to promote safe work practices in order to maintain a safe working environment

• Complete required trainings in a timely manner and attend meetings as assigned

• Work cooperatively and productively with others, including residents, families, and other team members

• Willingness to work under direction and supervision

• Confidentiality regarding resident information must be maintained in strict confidence, as well as other information pertaining to the business of Messiah Lifeways

• Additional duties and tasks as assigned

• Person-directed values and principles:

  • Know each person

  • Each person can and does make a difference

  • Relationship is the fundamental building block of a transformed culture

  • Respond to spirit, as well as mind and body

  • Risk taking is a normal part of life

  • Put person before task

  • All elders are entitled to self-determination wherever they live

  • Community is the antidote to institutionalization

  • Do unto others as you would have them do unto you

  • Promote the growth and development of all

  • Shape and use the potential of the environment in all its aspects: physical, organizational, psycho/social/spiritual

  • Practice self-examination, searching for new creativity and opportunities for doing better

  • Recognize that culture change and transformation are not destinations but a journey, always a work in progress

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to plan, coordinate and conduct meaningful enrichment programs

• Must have basic knowledge of computer programs, audio-visual equipment and communication devices

• Sincere desire to work with older adults

• Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition and enthusiasm

• Must have a sense of responsibility, alertness and skill in recognizing and identifying symptoms and dealing with challenging behavior 

Education/Experience:

• Prior experience working directly with residents in long term care and/or residents with dementia preferred

• High School Diploma or equivalent required

• Must have a valid driver's license

• Prior caregiving experience with resident care or basic hygiene tasks preferred