Recreational Therapy: Enjoying the Process of Getting Well

Whether you’re a senior, recovering from injury or, a young person dealing with autism and/ or other special needs; Traditional forms of therapy, that involves a series of repetitive exercises, may seem dull. Recovering from managing mental illnesses can be more challenging as well when the surroundings are so mundane. Thankfully, recreational therapy programs can give you a more interesting and exciting way to recover. Best of all, they are personalized to help you overcome the specific challenges you face.

These programs may include music, art, dance, games, community outings and other activities that are fun and benefit participants. As providers of recreational therapy programs in Ontario, iCare Home Health has seen first-hand the many benefits of these diverse programs. Here’s what you should know about them.

Recreational Therapy Should be Targeted

The best recreational therapy programs are targeted to everyone. After all, the point is to enjoy the activity and to enrich your life, and people enjoy different things and like to face different challenges. A common activity can help with the needs of everyone in the program if it is carefully planned. For example, a painting session outside in a garden will be:

• A fine motor skill exercise for people recovering from hand/arm injuries
• A memory exercise for people dealing with Alzheimer’s, if they paint garden from their memory
• A mood-booster for those who enjoy the outdoors and are dealing with depression
• A leg exercise for those dealing with balance issues while standing

As one gets older, sometimes one can lose the ability, and the desire, to partake in hobbies and activities enjoyed previously. With recreational therapy, you can rediscover that passion.

For Special Needs children, recreation therapy helps develop skills that are delayed or modify challenging behaviours.

Physical Benefits of Recreational Therapy Programs

Not all recreational therapy programs are focused on physical activity, but they can set specific goals and challenges. An engaging physical program can help with:

• Recovering from injury
• Improving strength, balance, flexibility
• Improving cardiovascular health
• Developing bone density
• Lessening the symptoms of certain illnesses and conditions with improved immunity

Mental Benefits of Recreational Therapy

As they are stimulating and tailored to a person’s own interests, recreational therapy programs are great for one’s mental health. Some benefits include:

• Socializing and feeling like part of a group
• Improving mood and outlook on life
• Feeling more confident and capable
• Helping to lessen the impact of depression, anxiety and more

The best recreational therapy programs will be led by someone who understands the mental challenges each participant faces and can target the activities to best help them. Programs must be carefully planned to ensure they are engaging for everyone. At iCare Home Health, we know just the thing that will get you or your loved one engaged and feeling enlivened safely.  For a personalized recreational therapy program in Ontario, reach out to us over email or call us at (905) 491-6941.