What is Recreational Therapy?

Recreation therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, is a treatment service designed to restore, remediate, and rehabilitate a person’s level of functioning and independence in life activities. It aims to promote health and wellness. Recreational therapy will reduce or eliminate the activity limitations and restrictions to participation in life situations caused by an illness, disabling condition or lack of motivation.

Key Components of Recreation Therapy:

1. Assessment: A recreation therapist assesses an individual's needs, interests, and abilities.

2. Planning: Based on the assessment, the therapist develops a customized plan that includes specific interventions. The therapist collaborates with the clients treatment team to assure a streamline plan.

Steps 1 & 2 are mandatory before moving on to Step 3. These will be completed in the 1:1 therapy session.

3. Implementation: The support staff leads activities that can include arts and crafts, music, dance, sports, games, and community outings geared toward reaching measurable goals.

4. Evaluation: The therapist evaluates the effectiveness of the interventions and makes necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Example Objectives of Recreation Therapy:

Improve physical health : Through activities that enhance physical fitness, coordination, and motor skills.

Enhance mental health: By reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and improving mood and cognitive function.

Promote social interaction: Encouraging participation in group activities to build social skills and relationships.

Increase independence: Helping individuals develop skills that allow them to perform daily activities and participate in community life.

Who Can Benefit from Recreation Therapy:

- Individuals with physical, developmental or cognitive disabilities

- Individuals recovering from illnesses or surgeries

- Those with mental health needs

-Those in recovery

- Elderly individuals

Recreation therapy uses an approach that focuses on improving the overall quality of life for individuals of all ages and abilities by engaging them in meaningful and enjoyable activities.