Recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, is a treatment method with many benefits including helping people recover from injury and illness by getting them active again. A recreational therapist, also known as a therapeutic recreation specialist, uses innovative and creative therapeutic methods to help patients overcome grief, regain their confidence, and regain their sense of control.
First Step to Recreation Therapy
Oftentimes, the first step in recreation therapy is assessment. This step determines a patient’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing the therapist to develop an appropriate intervention plan. The assessment process includes standardized and flexible assessments, so the therapist can best determine which strategies will be most effective for the patient. The assessment process can also include training the patient to use specialized equipment to engage in recreational activities. In addition to this, recreational therapists may use more than one type of assessment in the course of treatment to obtain the most accurate picture of a patient’s needs.
The goals of recreational therapy are to enhance the patient’s ability to function in society and to develop the skills necessary to be successful. A discharge planning process involves evaluating the client’s needs, devising activities to help him or she develop his or her skills and monitoring progress to ensure success. The discharge planning process also includes assisting the patient to develop a sense of self and communicating with others. The discharge referral provides the patient with information regarding community resources and programs, and it helps the patient develop social skills.
