• THE JOB
• COMPENSATION
• REQUIREMENTS
• OCCUPATIONAL CODES
  
  

RECREATION ASSISTANTS (ADULT DAY CARE OCCUPATIONS)
California Occupational Guide Number 2008 (part)
Interest Area:  Emerging Occupations
1996

THE JOB  

What They Do:

Recreation Assistants work under the supervision of Recreational Therapists 
and Program or Activity Directors.  They:
 - Implement a program of activities tailored to the needs and limitations 
   of participants in adult day care settings
 - Assist with carrying out each individual's program, regularly track 
   progress and stay aware of functional changes in clients, helping to 
   adjust programs accordingly
 - Conduct safe exercises and other physical activities
 - Organize, conduct and lead activities such as group projects, parties, 
   games, and discussions
 - Arrange for music, movies, tapes, books, games and other recreational 
   equipment to be available
 - Assist in reality orientation, food service and greeting participants
 - Prepare written reports as required

COMPENSATION

A formal salary survey of Recreation Assistants is not available; however 
references to hourly salaries for this occupation range from $6.63 to $13.40 
depending on applicant's experience, and on the size, budget and location of 
the care center.

REQUIREMENTS

Job Skills Needed:

 - Oral and written communication skills
 - Flexibility to adapt to a variety of abilities and to non-routine 
   situations
 - Manual dexterity for use in crafts and ceramics
 - Good physical condition and good sense of rhythm to lead and assist 
   others in physical exercises and dance

Training/Requirements:

 - High school diploma a must.  Associate degree from an accredited 
   community college in recreation or a related field is sometimes required 
   by larger centers
 - At least two years experience working with the frail elderly or with 
   adults with special physical or mental needs.  Volunteer work is usually 
   applicable to this requirement Experience in demonstrating crafts, 
   ceramics or physical exercises almost always required
 - First Aid and CPR certificates required by most employers (Training 
   sometimes provided)
 - Proof of current good health and TB test mandatory 

OCCUPATIONAL CODES

DOT
  Recreation Leader      195.227-014
OES
  Recreation Workers          273110

Source:  State of California, Employment Development Department,
         Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
         (916)  262-2162

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