Bloomington recreational therapists put the fun in functioning

Recreational Therapy is more than just playing games or passing time, it’s an opportunity to support meaningful therapeutic outcomes that can lead to improved physical, emotional and social functioning.

“It uses purposeful activities and leisure experiences to improve an individual’s physical, emotional, cognitive and social well-being,” shared recreational therapist (RT) Gabbi Sutton.

Gigi Voorhies, RT, explained, “Recreation Therapy has been linked to improved motivation, improved self-esteem and overall quality of life for individuals facing various health conditions.”

Jim Quinn, RT, added, “Everyone wants to enjoy life, but sometimes the obligation of life or the barriers in life can cause us to stop doing the things that make life enjoyable. I love helping people connect or reconnect with the things that can make life enjoyable again, so they are not just surviving.”

These experts have seen patients who once struggled to leave their routine begin participating in the community, expand their support systems, increase their physical activity, show a more positive outlook and much more.

Voorhies said that the interventions designed by their team focus on improving outcomes so the patients can live a more functional life.

Something as recreational as a card game can help RTs target goals, including, but not limited to, attention, memory, motor skills, problem-solving and stress reduction—and Sutton explained any game can be adapted to focus on individual goals and needs while being fun.

Quinn added that as a therapeutic intervention, Recreational Therapy does require a doctor’s order for service in a clinical setting.