Job Summary:

The Program Assistant organizes and implements programs designed to meet the individual needs of the resident.  The program is intended to fulfill basic psychological, intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs while promoting self-esteem in a caring, nurturing environment.  The Programming Assistant supports and assists the Programming Director in all necessary programming.  S/he safely uses all utilized equipment when planning or implementing programming.

Principal Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assists in the development and implementation of an innovative daily program for residents.
• Leads and implements one-on-ones, small group and large group activities according to the programming schedule.
• Supports, encourages and directs independent activity pursuits, both individually and in small groups.
• Supports the resident’s abilities by understanding that all aspects of care can be viewed as an activity.
• Demonstrates knowledge about residents regarding background, participation needs, physical abilities, interests, cognitive capacity and attention span capability.
• Communicates any changes in the residents’ condition or behavior pattern to Program Director or Nurse.
• Responds to emergencies and personal emergency response system and knows when to call for backup.
• Effectively handles difficult resident behaviors.
• Reacts calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Documents and provides accurate record-keeping as appropriate.
• Communicates and documents residents’ material needs (i.e., briefs, clothing, toothpaste, pads, etc.).
• Accurately completes incident reports prior to the end of the working day.
• Demonstrates knowledge of Benchmark Standards and Practices.
• Demonstrates working knowledge of state regulations.
• Participates in training / in-services as required by Benchmark and state regulations.
• Actively participates in local community activities and in professional associations, representing the community in a manner that brings positive recognition, enhances marketing activity, and generates wider awareness of Benchmark.

Education/Experience/Licensure/Certification:

• Must have a high school diploma, bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent experience and knowledge of aging and disability issues.
• Must be qualified by experience and training to develop programs appropriate for elders and disabled individuals.
• Valid driver’s license.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Shows familiarity and experience using a wide variety of equipment related to the recreational programs of elders and the disabled, including, but not limited to, craft supplies, VCR, stereo, stove, and food preparation equipment.
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality regarding residents, staff, and the community.
• Shows an ability to relate to and perform job functions for the elderly in a positive and efficient manner.

MEMORY CARE (HARBOR) REQUIREMENTS -  

• Pursues educational development in Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.
• Possesses training and knowledge of Alzheimer’s and related disorders.
• Demonstrates understanding of the emotional stress of having a loved one with dementia by responding professionally and sensitively to the family’s needs.
• Possesses knowledge of policies in the Harbor Family Handbook.