Recreation Therapy Assistant – Memory Care
Department: Recreation Therapy – Memory Care
Supervisor: Recreation Therapy Manager
Location: St. Camillus
Position Summary
St. Camillus is seeking a compassionate and creative Recreation Therapy Assistant – Memory Care to support residents as they participate in meaningful therapeutic and recreational activities. This role plays a vital part in enhancing quality of life by promoting engagement, socialization, and emotional well-being for residents living with memory-related conditions.
The Recreation Therapy Assistant works with residents in group settings, one-on-one, and within the activity room, collaborating closely with the interdisciplinary team to create inclusive, person-centered experiences.
Essential Responsibilities
- Support residents’ participation in scheduled recreational and therapeutic activities by providing clear directions, encouragement, and hands-on assistance
- Ensure all scheduled resident activities occur as planned and are properly staffed and supplied
- Document daily resident participation, behaviors, declined activities, and 1:1 visits accurately and timely
- Provide weekly or biweekly 1:1 activities for residents unable to participate in group programming
- Assist new residents with adjustment to Memory Care by facilitating introductions and encouraging ongoing participation
- Transport residents safely to and from activities, including wheelchair assistance
- Plan, coordinate, and accompany residents on community outings, including transportation, staffing, and financial handling
- Promote programs through flyers, sign-up sheets, and personal invitations
- Assist with planning monthly activity calendars, printing, and distribution
- Coordinate room setup, reservations, and outside entertainment for special events
- Order refreshments and supplies for activities and special programs
- Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to identify changes in resident needs and develop customized interventions
- Work with Pastoral Care to support residents’ spiritual enrichment opportunities
- Assist with decorating the facility for holidays and special events
- Participate in department meetings, in-service trainings, and mandatory organizational training
- Report any concerns regarding resident welfare to the appropriate leadership
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field (Human Services, Therapeutic Recreation, or similar) preferred
- Experience assessing and responding to individual leisure and recreation needs
- Knowledge of community leisure and recreation resources for older adults
- Creative, organized, and flexible approach to programming
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency with basic computer programs (email, documents, flyers, internet research)
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends
- Ability to safely perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation
Our Commitment
St. Camillus is committed to upholding resident dignity, safety, and rights. All team members are expected to adhere to organizational policies, procedures, and the St. Camillus Code of Conduct while supporting a culture of respect, confidentiality, and teamwork.