We all want to live a healthy lifestyle and spend our leisure time the way we want. However, sometimes there may be limitations that could keep us from achieving those goals. For some, it may be mental health. For others, it may be a physical disability that limits their functional capacity. There could be a number of factors affecting someone’s mental, physical, or social health. Fortunately, there is help available.
Recreation therapy uses recreation and activities-based interventions to address the needs of individuals with illnesses or disabilities (e.g.. cognitive, physical, social, or emotional limitations) to achieve a good quality of life. The objective of recreation therapy is to enable individuals to fully participate in society through cognitive, physical and social health. These interventions are provided by professionals trained in therapeutic recreation in hospital and community settings.
Recreation therapists work with individuals who are in need of assistance and help maximize their independence through leisure and recreation. The recreational activities employed are generally tailored to the needs of the individuals participating to ensure full participation. The types of activities used during recreation therapy depend on the person’s conditions and needs. It may include, but is not limited to, breathing techniques, stretching exercises, music, dance and arts and crafts.
Some of the outcomes of recreation therapy are listed below:
- Improved functional abilities and well-being
- Enhanced confidence and self-esteem
- Improved motor skills
- Helped in the recovery from stroke
- Provided rehabilitation after illness, injury or surgery
Everyone deserves a good quality of life and nothing should take away their right to a healthy lifestyle. Therapeutic recreation services are provided to residents of long-term care centers, hospitals and rehabilitation centers among other places. To learn more about what recreation therapists do and how they can help, please visit the Therapeutic Recreation Ontario’s website: https://www.trontario.org/about/about-therapeutic-recreation/index.html
If you think you are in need of assistance, visit us at Guildview pharmacy. We may be able to connect you with a network or a professional service offering these interventions.
