• Provides initial assessment and at least quarterly reassessment of assigned patients to evaluate functional and social ability, identify major interests and set realistic recreation therapy treatment goals.
• Conducts reassessments to determine progress achieved and update goals, and develops and implements a therapeutic Plan of Care with ongoing recommendations at least quarterly and when a participant’s condition changes. Presents and coordinates the Plan of Care with the Interdisciplinary Team.
• Implements an appropriate recreation therapy program for each patient and monitors treatment progress. Supervises all aspects of patient recreation therapy delivered by Certified Nursing Assistants in the AGPU, as assigned.
• Demonstrates proficiency in the set-up and application of all recreation therapy modalities including exercise.
• Develops and schedules specific therapeutic programs that include recreational and social activities and programming for participants with dementia or sensory deficits.
• Develops, implements and supervises the activity program. Produces a monthly activity calendar.
• Plans and provides both group and individual activities. Greets patients upon arrival at the AGPU and sets the tone for each day.
• Incorporates the use of volunteers and intergenerational activities into activities.
• Incorporates contracted services for entertainment, art, movement and music therapy into activities.
• Accesses community resources for outings whenever possible.
• Monitors safety, is prepared in case of emergency and attends to good body mechanics.
• Provides recreational education to patients and family members or caregiver according to recreation therapy standards.
• Shares information on patient interests and social strengths with the Interdisciplinary Team and actively participates in Interdisciplinary Team meetings. Keeps the Team apprised of noticed changes in the participant’s condition.
• Completes documentation in the medical record accurately and in a timely manner.
• Maintains competency according to departmental, organizational and professional standards.
• Understands fiscal issues and is appropriately involved in meeting budget targets.
• Complies with safety policies and procedures, identifying and immediately reporting any potential or actual unsafe acts or conditions to the Center Manager. Takes necessary measures to ensure a safe environment for oneself, co-workers, contractors, patients, visitors and others.
• Consistently meets or exceeds AGPU targets for productivity.
• Continually seeks better ways for delivering services and communicating with patients.
• Consistently meets or exceeds AGPU patient satisfaction targets.
• Demonstrates respect for and promotes patient rights including dignity, self-determination, access to care, confidentiality and independence.
• Effectively collaborates with staff peers and contractors to meet AGPU goals and further success.
• Complies with all policy and procedures of AGPU.
• Demonstrates proficiency in delivering age-specific care.
• Consistently meets or exceeds AGPU quality assessment and performance improvement targets.

• Degree and diplomas: Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation Therapy or related field (Occupational Therapy, Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Dance Therapy or Social Work).
• Certificates, Licenses: Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Verification of completion of CPR (BLS) and first aid training. Valid California driver’s license with good driving record. TB screening and successful completion of a health examination by a hospital-designated nurse practitioner or physician is required for employment. MAB De-escalation Training and Certification is required within 3 months of hire.

• At least two years experience in social or recreational programs providing and coordinating services for a elderly population or individuals with mental health conditions within the past five years.
• Prefer applicant with full-time experience in patient activities program in an acute psychiatric setting within the last 3 years.

• Recreation therapy knowledge and skills necessary to treat participants and manage complex problems.
• Ability to provide care for elderly.
• Ability to work independently and within an Interdisciplinary Team.
• Good organizational and supervisory skills.
• Ability to handle complex interpersonal situations.

Established in 1912 as a haven for elderly immigrants, the Los Angeles Jewish Health has grown to become a leading provider leader of senior care in Los Angeles. Today, LAJHealth serves over 1,000 seniors in residence and 3,500 seniors annually through our in-home and community-based services.