Director of Activities

Director of Activities

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Director of Activities to join our team. The Director of Activities will be responsible for planning, organizing, implementing, directing, and evaluating a comprehensive, person-centered activities program designed to meet the physical, mental, emotional, psychosocial, spiritual, and cognitive needs of our residents. If you are a motivated and experienced professional with a passion for providing exceptional care and engagement to seniors, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, supervise, and evaluate a comprehensive therapeutic recreation and activities program that reflects residents' interests, preferences, cultural backgrounds, and abilities.

• Complete activity assessments upon admission and as required by CMS and New York State regulations, and document resident participation, responses, and progress in the electronic medical record.

• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to develop individualized activity care plans and meaningful engagement opportunities for all residents.

• Ensure compliance with CMS F679 – Activities Meet Interests and Needs, CMS F680 – Qualified Activities Professional, 42 CFR §483.24(c) – Activities Program, New York State Department of Health regulations, Resident Rights requirements, Infection Prevention policies, and Emergency Preparedness requirements.

• Maintain all documentation necessary for state and federal surveys.

• Recruit, hire, orient, train, supervise, and evaluate Activities Department staff.

• Develop staff schedules to ensure adequate department coverage and conduct annual performance evaluations.

• Provide ongoing education regarding person-centered care and dementia programming.

• Organize holiday celebrations, special events, entertainers, outings, and intergenerational programs.

• Prepare and manage the department budget, order supplies, and maintain inventory.

• Ensure activity equipment is safe and properly maintained and maintain department policies and procedures.

• Attend care conferences and department head meetings, and assist with Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree preferred in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Therapy, Gerontology, Human Services, Recreation Management, or Social Work.

• Associate degree with appropriate experience may be considered.

• Minimum two (2) years of experience in long-term care, rehabilitation, or healthcare preferred.

• Previous supervisory experience preferred.

• Experience working with residents living with dementia preferred.

• The Activities Director must meet the qualifications of a Qualified Activities Professional under 42 CFR §483.24(c)(2), which include one or more of the following:

  • Eligible for certification as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist or Activities Professional by a recognized accrediting body;

  • At least two (2) years of experience in a social or recreational program within the last five (5) years, including one (1) year full-time in a therapeutic activities program;

  • Licensed Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant; or

  • Successful completion of a state-approved activities training course.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of CMS and New York State Department of Health regulations.

• Understanding of resident-centered care principles.

• Knowledge of dementia care and behavioral interventions.

• Excellent organizational and leadership skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.

• Ability to supervise and motivate staff.

• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and electronic medical records.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional relationships.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to walk throughout the facility.

• Ability to push wheelchairs and transport residents safely.

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.

• Ability to stand, bend, stoop, and reach throughout the workday.

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Performance Expectations:

• Maintain compliance with all CMS and NYSDOH regulations.

• Complete all required assessments and documentation timely.

• Achieve high resident participation rates.

• Promote resident satisfaction and quality of life.

• Maintain survey readiness at all times.

• Foster a positive, engaging environment for residents, families, staff, and volunteers.

• Participate in Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) activities.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in a skilled nursing facility and may include indoor and outdoor programming.

• The position requires frequent interaction with residents, families, visitors, volunteers, and staff and may involve exposure to infectious diseases in accordance with standard precautions.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

• The facility is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

If you are a motivated and experienced professional looking for a new challenge, please apply for this exciting opportunity by submitting your application to [insert contact information].