Job Details

Suncoast PACE, a member of Empath Health is currently seeking a Recreational Therapist  to join our PACE team.

Under the supervision of the Center Manager, and as a member of the Suncoast PACE Program assesses the needs, interests and capabilities of participants and develops individualized therapeutic recreation plans.  In addition, plans, organizes, directs and participates in a comprehensive therapeutic recreation program tailored to the general and individualized needs and limitations of frail elderly program participants.

1. Conducts an individualized, initial recreational assessment and coordinates with the Interdisciplinary Team to develop a comprehensive plan of care for each participant.
2. Conducts an individualized assessment quarterly and as needed. Functions as a member of the Interdisciplinary Team. Maintains regular attendance at, and participants in, Interdisciplinary Team meetings; communicates participant changes, collaborates on plan of care decisions.
3. Plans and implements group and individual activities to improve or maintain the participants’ cognitive, physical, social, psychosocial, and artistic needs. Develops specific therapeutic programs to include recreational and social activities.
4. Plans and implements activities for dementia-specific population. Oversees daily flow of dementia activities area. Activities may focus on small groups, one-on-one programming and sensory stimulation.
5. Develops a monthly calendar of activities.
6. Evaluates program plans to promote effective programs according to client abilities and preferences within the ADHC daily flow of events. Utilizes participant input from monthly site meetings.
7. Provides recreational, educational and training to support Activity Assistants, and other PACE Center staff members, as appropriate.
8. Provides on-going support and training to all staff involved in dementia-specific programming related to the dementia disease process, including management of behaviors.
9. Documents in participants record the participants progress notes and fulfills Suncoast PACE charting and documentation requirements. Does incident reports as needed.
10. Provides leisure education to participants and caregivers for activity modification and activity skill development.
11. Acts within the scope of his or her authority to practice.
12. Maintains general order in the activities area, including daily clean-up, routine supply inventory ordering.
13. Works cooperatively with other staff and departments to meet Suncoast PACE participants’ needs. Develops, implements, and supervises the Activity Program. Serves as a resource to staff and coordinates volunteer activities at the center.
14. Assists participants with personal care and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) as needed. May include assistance with wheelchair or walker utilization and transfer techniques.
15. Protects HIPPA privacy policies and maintains confidentiality of all company procedures, results and information about employees, participants and families.
16. Participates in and supports Quality Improvement Initiatives. Communicates participant changes to team members.
17. Assists with monitoring of nutrition.
18. Serve as a chairperson or member of required committees.
19. Performs related duties as required.

Position Requirements: 

• Education and/or Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Therapy or related field strongly preferred. 
• Education or training in geriatrics, including dementia, preferred

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) preferred or eligible.

• Minimum two years experience in a social or recreational program providing and coordinating services to a frail or elderly population within the past 5 years, one of which was full-time in a patient activities program in a health care setting.
• Valid CPR certification from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and have means of transportation.
• Must have medical clearance for communicable diseases and up-to-date immunizations before having direct participant contact

Suncoast PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) is a nonprofit provider of comprehensive health care and support services to Pinellas County seniors with chronic health conditions. As a member of Empath Health, our focus is on helping participants remain healthy and independent while living in their own homes.

Empath Health values diversity as it strengthens our community and care. We embrace the diversity of cultures, thoughts, beliefs and traditions of our employees, volunteers and people we are honored to serve across our network. Our diverse staff reflects our community and each day, we work to be respectful, sensitive and competent with each other and those in our care. In every journey, we are dedicated to achieving comfort, dignity and exceptional care. Those of all backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply with us or seek our care and services

Our commitment to patient, client, staff and volunteer safety is a cornerstone of a High Reliability Organization with a focus on zero harm. Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Empath Health employees.

Providing compassionate, full life care is an honor we take seriously at Empath Health. Join our team and make a positive impact in the community!