This role is intended to support the delivery of Lifestyle and Leisure programming as directed by the Lifestyle and Leisure Manager.

Qualifications:

Candidate should be fluent in English and possess a High School Diploma. Preference will be given to candidates with additional education in Recreation & Leadership, Therapeutic Recreation, Social Service Worker, Developmental Service Worker or Kinesiology. Additional courses studies in Activation Techniques in Gerontology, Restorative Care, Food Handlers Certificate, Behaviour Management and WHIMIS.

Core Competencies:

• Knowledge and/or experience in working with the geriatric population, especially with those living with cognitive impairments and physical limitations.
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to modify techniques to overcome barriers to communication.
• Proficient in the use of computer applications such as Microsoft Office, Publisher, Powerpoint, and social media platforms.
• Knowledge and demonstrated experience in one to one and group program planning, implementation and evaluation for both high functioning, low functioning, and cognitively impaired.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively to complete all assigned tasks.
• Ability to plan, implement, evaluate new ideas for resident programs and volunteer initiatives.
• Strong interpersonal skills that promote inclusiveness in the Home.
• Understanding of the Resident’s Bill of Rights and respect for working within the Residents’ Home.
• Perform duties in accordance with the Homes’ Mission, Vision and Values and the Retirement Homes Act.
• Must be self-directed and creative. Must be able to interact positively with residents and coworkers.
• Able to interact with people sensitively, tactfully, diplomatically, and professionally always.
• Able to work efficiently as part of a team as well as independently. Strong work ethic and positive team attitude.

Essential Duties:

• Contributes ideas and suggestions for programs and activities that promote the wellness model of living
• Carries out planned individual and group programs in an imaginative manner, maintaining the optimum interest of participants. Programs and activities are offered during the day, evening and alternate weekends.
• Assists residents while promoting independence in activities of daily living through the implementation of physical and occupational activities identified in individual care plans.
• Daily documentation of residents’ participation in activities in medicare system.
• Assessment and evaluation of residents lifestyle and leisure pursuits as assigned by department manager.
• Meets with new residents within 48 hours of admission to discuss available programs and services. Provide an activity calendar and introductions as appropriate.
• Adheres to department policies and procedures regarding quality improvement, fire, safety, infection prevention and control.
• Coordinate trips to the Post Office for all outgoing mail. Process incoming mail and deliver to residents in suite.
• Coordinate trips to procure products to sell at bi-weekly Tuck Shop service for residents.
• Participate in the planning, preparation and implementation of bi-weekly Tuck Shop service for residents.
• Participate in the care and management of all equipment and supplies used in the department. Identify gaps in resources and request purchases of equipment and supplies needed for the implementation of programs and activities.
• Carry out activity program set up and clean up in activity areas.
• Distribute the monthly activity calendar to all residents in the Home and post on each floor.
• Participate in the implementation of community outings for residents that respond to their interests and abilities, while ensuring their safety.
• Promotes the involvement of residents, family members in activities of interest.
• Involvement in the monitoring of volunteers and students participation in activities and learning opportunities.
• Works cooperatively with other staff members to meet residents needs.
• Other duties as may be assigned by the Lifestyle & Leisure Manager.

Working Conditions:

• Some irregular hours. Evening and weekend work required.
• Frequent use of visual and auditory senses to monitor level of engagement and responses of participants to activity programs.
• Use of personal vehicle and community transit.
• Working with sharp and hot equipment.
• Other duties that may be assigned based on the needs of the business.