Memory Care Activities Assistant

Summary

The Activities Assistant shall assist the Life Enrichment Manager with the development and delivery of a specialized memory care activities program designed to support residents living with dementia and cognitive impairment. The program focuses on enhancing each resident’s physical, emotional, cognitive, spiritual, and psychosocial well-being through meaningful engagement, sensory experiences, therapeutic activities, and structured daily routines.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, developing, and implementing memory care activities specifically designed to enrich the lives of residents with cognitive impairment and varying levels of ability.
• Support the creation of monthly activity calendars that include cognitive engagement, sensory programming, music, movement, reminiscence, and social connection.
• Lead one-on-one and small group activities that encourage participation, purpose, and emotional well-being.
• Prepare rooms, supplies, and equipment before activities and assist with cleanup afterward.
• Encourage resident and family participation while providing reassurance, patience, and redirection when needed.
• Transport residents safely to and from activities as necessary.
• Assist with documentation including attendance records, activity participation notes, transportation logs, and resident preferences.
• Support community communications, bulletin boards, seasonal decorations, newsletters, and displays within the Memory Care neighborhood.
• Assist the Life Enrichment Manager in evaluating resident participation, engagement levels, and effectiveness of programs.
• Participate in required training and professional development related to dementia care and life enrichment programming.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage older adults with memory loss compassionately and patiently.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to remain calm, positive, flexible, and reassuring in changing situations.
• Basic computer proficiency including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 months–1 year of experience in activities, memory care, senior living, adult day care, or a related setting preferred.
• Experience working with older adults living with dementia strongly preferred.
• High school diploma required.
• Therapy or recreation-related education preferred.
• Ability to communicate clearly in English and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Must maintain a professional appearance in accordance with community standards.
• Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings.
• Must complete required health screenings, including TB clearance, prior to employment.
• Must successfully pass a criminal background check in the state of employment.

Mental and Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to sit, bend, reach, and use hands for activity setup and engagement.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and push resident equipment as needed.
• May be required to assist residents during emergency situations or evacuations.
• Ability to remain calm, compassionate, and positive in stressful situations.