In a skilled nursing environment, the Activity Director plays a critical role in enhancing residents’ overall quality of life. This position is responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing a comprehensive activity program that promotes purpose, engagement, and connection for all residents.
The Activity Director creates meaningful experiences that reflect residents’ interests, abilities, life histories, and cultural backgrounds. These programs support physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being while preserving dignity and encouraging independence.
This role requires a compassionate, creative, and organized professional who understands that activities are not just recreational; they are essential to resident-centered care. Through collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, leadership of volunteers, and engagement with the community, the Activity Director fosters an environment where residents can thrive, participate, and maintain a strong sense of belonging.
Design, organize, and implement both individual and group activities tailored to residents’ needs, preferences, and abilities
Ensure a balanced activity program that serves both high-functioning and low-functioning residents daily
Conduct and document resident activity assessments, including annual reviews
Complete Section E of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) accurately and in a timely manner
Develop and maintain the activity component of each resident’s Comprehensive Care Plan based on assessment findings
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Provide and document individualized one-to-one activities for bedfast or non-ambulatory residents
Develop, distribute, and post a monthly activity calendar in highly visible areas; ensure each resident receives a personal copy
Prepare and distribute a facility newsletter highlighting activities and upcoming events
Coordinate a minimum of two off-site activities per month, ensuring safe transportation and participation
Engage with community organizations and arrange use of external facilities to enhance programming opportunities
Collaborate with the Corporate Events/Activities Coordinator to plan facility-wide employee and resident events
Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers to support the activity program
Participate in Quality Assurance (QA) meetings and submit required monthly QA reports
Ensure all activities are documented in accordance with facility policies and regulatory standards
Must meet one of the following criteria
Option 1
Bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy from an accredited college or university
Minimum of one (1) year full-time experience working with elderly individuals or individuals with disabilities in a healthcare or human services setting
Option 2
Completion of an approved Activity Director training program through the National Certification Council for Activity Professionals.
Minimum of two (2) years full-time experience working with elderly individuals or individuals with disabilities in a healthcare or human services setting
Skills & Attributes
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Creativity in program development and engagement strategies
Ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team
Strong organizational and documentation skills
Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care
