Activities Assistant / Therapy Aide

An Activities Assistant / Therapy Aide assists licensed Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists in providing rehabilitation services to residents in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) setting. This role supports the therapy department by preparing treatment areas, transporting residents, assisting with exercises, maintaining equipment, and performing administrative tasks. The Therapy Aide plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and efficient therapy environment, contributing to resident well-being and recovery.  We are looking for an open minded and creative individual to both assist with rehab services and coordinate and host enrichment activities to patients during their rehabilitation stay. Exceptional customer service is required.  

Schedule: Full-Time, Weekdays, Day Shift, Some Evenings, 

Responsibilities:

Resident Assistance:

• Safely transport residents to and from the therapy gym or treatment areas using appropriate methods (wheelchairs, stretchers, ambulation assistance). 
• Assist residents with positioning and transfers as directed by a therapist.
• Monitor residents during therapy sessions and report any changes in condition or concerns to the supervising therapist.
• Encourage and motivate residents to participate in therapy activities.

Treatment Area Preparation and Maintenance:

• Prepare treatment areas before and after therapy sessions, ensuring cleanliness and organization.
•  Set up equipment and supplies as instructed by the therapist for individual and group therapy sessions.
• Clean and disinfect therapy equipment, mats, and treatment surfaces after use, following facility protocols.
• Maintain an organized and safe therapy environment, ensuring all pathways are clear.

Therapy Support:

• Assist therapists with specific exercises and activities, under direct supervision, as prescribed in resident care plans.
• Hand equipment to therapists during treatment sessions.
• Retrieve and return therapy equipment and supplies.
• Observe and report resident responses to therapy interventions to the supervising therapist.

Administrative and Clerical Support:

• Schedule resident therapy appointments and manage therapy schedules. ? Maintain therapy department records, including resident attendance logs and inventory.
• Answer phones, take messages, and direct calls appropriately.
• Order and maintain therapy supplies and equipment inventory.
• Perform general office duties such as filing, copying, and data entry.

Safety and Compliance:

•  Adhere to all facility policies and procedures, including infection control, safety, and resident rights.
• Ensure proper use and maintenance of all therapy equipment.
• Report any equipment malfunctions or safety hazards immediately.
• Maintain resident confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.

Team Collaboration:

• Communicate effectively with therapists, nursing staff, residents, and family members.
• Participate in department meetings and in-service training as required.
• Work collaboratively with all members of the interdisciplinary team to provide comprehensive resident care.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Some college coursework or a certificate in a related field (e.g., CNA, medical assistant) is a plus.
• Experience: Previous experience in a healthcare setting, particularly in a skilled nursing facility or rehabilitation environment, is preferred.
• Active CNA is preferred (current Nursing Assistance Certification.)
• Any experience in a Skilled Nursing Facility

Skills:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong Customer Service Skills.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions accurately.
• Basic understanding of rehabilitation principles and terminology.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Compassionate and patient demeanor with residents.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Basic computer proficiency.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift, transfer, and assist residents safely (often requiring standing, walking, bending, reaching, and occasional heavy lifting).
• Ability to push wheelchairs and other therapy equipment.
• Stamina to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Good manual dexterity.

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the responsibilities and qualifications of a Therapy Aide in a skilled nursing facility. Specific duties may vary depending on the facility and the needs of the residents.