Residents are at the Core of Recreation Therapy

The most common remark we hear from the community is how there is always something happening at Northwood for residents living in long term care. And it’s true – take a look at our recreation calendars (online or posted on the floors) and you’ll see a thoughtfully planned calendar of activities and social gatherings.

Rhonda explains that even in a facility wide event with 75+ people, the experience is individualized for each participant.

“Members of our Recreation Therapy department are highly skilled and in tune with our residents. We are always observing and assessing – even in a larger program.”

The events that you see on the calendars for each of the neighbourhoods within Northwood’s long term care program are only a sampling for the programming Recreation Therapy offers.

“We create authentic experiences for our residents with their input and ideas,” says Amanda Hatcher, Recreation Therapist at the Halifax Campus, “We have a lot of club based groups which are not usually on the calendars. These groups are specialized and targeting residents based on their needs and strengths.”

When it comes down to it, Northwood’s Recreation Therapy department exists to ensure the dignity of residents while providing freedom from illness.

“In the process, we get to witness moments of rich goodness,” says Rhonda, “we leave at the end of the day absolutely exhausted, but there is pure joy in the exhaustion.”