Requirements for an Activity Director of a Nursing Home

Any nursing home that receives medicare and medicaid reimbursement is required to have an activities program for seniors. This program must be led by a qualified professional director. A qualified nursing home activity director can be a certified therapeutic recreation specialist or an occupational therapist who has been certified by the National Council of Certified Activity Professionals. Professionals already working in the field can first obtain provisional certification and take continuing education courses to fully qualify.

Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist

• A certified therapeutic recreation specialist is qualified to be an activity director of a nursing home, according to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Typically, these professionals hold a bachelor of science degree in recreation and specialize in therapeutic recreation for disabled individuals who live in nursing homes. A certified therapeutic recreation specialist helps these residents build confidence, socialize more effectively and develop independence. These specialists are licensed or registered in the state in which they practice.

Occupational Therapist Or Assistant

• Occupational therapists and certified occupational therapy assistants are also qualified to serve as activity directors in nursing homes. These professionals plan, organize and conduct programs that meet the needs of residents living in nursing homes. They must graduate from an accredited program in the field, pass a national examination and become licensed in the state where they plan to work.

Certified Activity Directors

• The National Council of Certified Activity Professionals certifies activity professionals who work specifically with the elderly. In order to become a certified activity director, you must meet specific education, experience and continuing education requirements including the successful completion of Modular Education Program for Activity Professionals classes.

Activity Director Provisionally Certified

• A person can obtain provisional activity director certification with two years of experience in a social or recreational program occurring within the last five years. She must be working towards full certification and can hold provisional certification for no more than six years. This program includes continuing education credits each year.