CELEBRATING THE NATIONAL THERAPEUTIC AND RECREATION WEEK 2022

National Therapeutic and Recreational Week is celebrated in the United States every second week of July. This week’s theme is to emphasize the importance of activities that support the recovery process for various forms of disabilities.

It was begun in 1984 by the National Therapeutic Recreation Society.

Recreational therapy is potent for people with physical, emotional, or mental health issues. It helps strengthen their bodies, rebuild their skills, rework their moods, and boost their quality of life for their health and well-being.

A 2020 study by PubMed stated that 33 preschool children with autism spectrum disorder participated in a short program of 8 weeks that focused on a sports activity which is basketball. After, the students were confirmed to have acquired excellent outcomes at the end of the program. They had improved muscle strength, agility, social communication skills, and speed.

Utilizing the week’s best practices is fundamental in building a recreation therapy treatment plan. This will be based on the individual’s specific needs and symptoms, ensuring excellent outcomes from the recreational week holiday.

Several symptoms are suitable for recreational therapy for example, symptoms of recovering from a stroke. Rehabilitation from surgery. Illness, injury or anxiety, depression, or a substance use disorder, among others.

Here are some activities we can incorporate during the Therapeutic and Recreation week and every other day;

1. Art Therapy Sessions

Art therapy is a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional healing. Organize painting, drawing, or crafting sessions where seniors can explore their creativity. These activities provide a sense of accomplishment and help improve motor skills and cognitive function.

2. Music and Movement Therapy

Music has a profound impact on mood and memory. Combine music with gentle movement exercises to enhance physical health and emotional well-being. Playing familiar tunes can also trigger pleasant memories and conversations.

3. Pet Therapy Visits

Interaction with pets has been shown to reduce stress and increase joy. Coordinate visits from trained therapy animals to bring comfort and companionship to seniors.

4. Gardening Activities

Gardening can be both therapeutic and rewarding. It allows seniors to connect with nature, practice mindfulness, and enjoy the fruits (or flowers) of their labor.

5. Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and guided imagery can significantly reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity. Introduce these practices in a gentle, accessible manner.

6. Memory Games and Puzzles

Cognitive activities like puzzles, word games, and memory challenges are excellent for keeping the mind sharp. These activities also promote social interaction and a sense of achievement.

7. Storytelling and Reminiscence Therapy

Sharing stories and memories can be deeply therapeutic, fostering connections and preserving personal histories. Create a space where seniors feel comfortable sharing their life experiences.

Similarly, exercising is a therapeutic activity. Here’s a read on how you can go about it as an elderly person or with your loved ones from our Joy in Aging Blog.

In doing the several activities, there are also some benefits to an individual’s well-being.

The day improves self-care by;

• Improving strength and physical fitness.
• Reducing stress and depression.
• Improving functional independence after an injury.
• Dealing with anxiety.
• Building confidence.
• Strengthening social connections.
• Enhancing self-esteem.
• Recovering basic motor functioning/reasoning.

Equally, organizations can celebrate National Therapeutic Recreation Week by promoting disability awareness through sports tournaments. Involving people with disabilities, taking a walk where people pair up with a loved one with a disability. In addition, holding a luncheon to learn to promote recreational ideas to team members. It brings awareness and encourages healthy movement.

This week offers a wonderful opportunity to introduce and emphasize various therapeutic activities designed to enhance the quality of life for our seniors.

 

At Livewell Private Care, we acknowledge the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists who prove to be an integral part of the making of a patient’s treatment plan.

Embracing the day will increase the self-expression of patients, and help improve the mind-body connection. Lastly, it builds self-esteem for patients suffering from disabilities.