Hospital Launches First-Ever Recreational Therapy Week

Activities Designed for Seniors Contribute to Independence and Quality of Life

Bermuda Hospitals Board will launch its first ever Recreational Therapy (RT) Week beginning July 14 with an Open House in the lobby at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH) scheduled from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

Members of the public are invited to view demonstrations on RT activities, as well as to learn about career options in the field.

“Recreational Therapy uses treatment, education and recreation services to help people with illnesses, disabilities and other conditions,” said Capri Smith, Activities Director for the Continuing Care Units (CCU) at KEMH. “Our work is especially important for seniors because we develop and use leisure in ways that enhance their health, functional abilities, independence and quality of life.”

In addition to restoring and rehabilitating function and independence, Ms. Smith said RT can reduce or eliminate the effects of illness or disability. “Our primary goal is providing opportunities to improve health and well-being.”

Another goal for RT Week is encouraging Bermudians to consider career options in the field.

“Recreational Therapists are trained, certified, registered and/or licensed healthcare professionals” adds Ms. Smith. “There is a great need for qualified therapists in Bermuda. This is a wonderful and rewarding field, with opportunities for career advancement and the gratification of making a difference in the lives of patients.”

Community members are invited to talk with staff from the Activities Department on both Monday and Tuesday, July 14 and 15 from 10:00am to 2:00pm in the lobby of the hospital.

Other activities for the week include a Tea Party for CCU residents hosted at the Matilda Smith Williams Seniors Residence on Thursday and a picnic at Clearwater Beach on Friday that will include clients from CCU, the Lorraine Rest Home, Lefroy House, the Silvia Richardson Care Facility, the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute and the Matilda Smith Williams Seniors Residence.

Notes to Editors:
Recreation Therapists:
• Work with individuals with physical, mental, emotional, cognitive or social limitations that impact their ability, attitude and motivation to engage freely in leisure and to maintain a healthy and balanced leisure lifestyle.

• Work collaboratively within health service teams which may include physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, nutritionists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech language pathologists and social workers.

• Work in settings throughout the continuum of health care including acute care, rehabilitation, community, assisted living, day programs, long term care and private business.

• Follow established Standards of Practice including assessment, intervention/care planning, programme development and delivery, documentation, evaluation, research, professional development and community practice.

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