What is Recreational Therapy?

Recreational therapy, also known as therapeutic recreation, is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being.

The purpose of the RT process is to improve or maintain physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual functioning in order to facilitate full participation in life.

Recreational therapy includes, but is not limited to, providing treatment services and recreation activities to individuals using a variety of techniques including arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings. Recreational therapists treat and help maintain the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their clients by seeking to reduce depression, stress, and anxiety; recover basic motor functioning and reasoning abilities; build confidence; and socialize effectively. Recreational therapists should not be confused with recreation workers, who organize recreational activities primarily for enjoyment.

Dignitas Recreation Program:

Our therapists at Dignitas, Inc. strive to improve the client’s quality of life and wellness through numerous outings in the community as well as activities held at the various Dignitas locations and client’s homes. Our goal is to assist the clients with living at their most independent level, both at home and in the community. Client’s programs are individualized based on each client’s interests, needs and abilities. Therapists work closely with an interdisciplinary team to ensure goals and objectives are the primary focus of each client’s therapy.

A certified yoga therapist works weekly with the clients to promote wellness, enhance fine/gross motor skills, increase mobility, strength, endurance and relaxation techniques. Therapist adapts poses to meet the physical abilities of each client.