Engaging in activities or therapeutic recreation (TR) at home is an essential component of many individuals' care plans and medical plans. These activities are designed to stimulate the senses and facilitate recovery, helping individuals reintegrate into a normal life. By participating in these activities, individuals can enhance their mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Moreover, these activities foster confidence, improve muscle memory, and prioritize a person-centered approach.
Caregivers play a vital role in supporting recreational activities throughout the day. Family members can schedule these activities in advance, which can help restore a sense of autonomy and independence for the individual. One effective form of recreational therapy is taking walks with a caregiver. Other forms of recreational activities includes, board games, writing exercises, reading, and memory games. Recreational therapy can be tailored with specific goals and focuses. Often incorporating elements of physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
A study conducted by the NIH indicates that increased participation in TR-led leisure skills and community activities during rehabilitation positively correlates with various outcomes at the time of rehabilitation discharge and the one-year anniversary of an injury. This research demonstrates that TR activities are linked to a successful return to a productive and healthy life following spinal cord injury (Cahow, 2012). In simpler terms, therapeutic recreation is beneficial, with shorter recovery times, allowing individuals to regain productivity and health within a year.
Caregivers can significantly assist with recreational therapies. If you are interested in receiving daily support for recreational activities, consider signing up for a caregiver. Click on the home page to view our basic information form. Once complete you will receive an email with in home caregiving information like costs and more details.
Works Cited:
Cahow, Claire, et al. “Relationship of Therapeutic Recreation Inpatient Rehabilitation Interventions and Patient Characteristics to Outcomes Following Spinal Cord Injury: The SCIRehab Project.” *The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine*, vol. 35, no. 6, Nov. 2012, pp. 547–564, https://doi.org/10.1179/2045772312y.0000000066. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.