Therapeutic Recreation Month - Meet Spencer
1. What is your name and what do you do at Green Acres Foundation?
My name is Spencer and I am a Recreation Therapist at Green Acres Foundation.
2. How long have you worked at Green Acres?
I have worked at Green Acres for one month.
3. How would you describe or summarize the occupation of a recreation therapist to someone who has never heard of it?
A recreation therapist provides meaningful recreation that meets the unique needs of an individual. By focusing on personal strengths, and engaging all domains (physical, cognitive, spiritual, social, emotional) individuals are provided with the opportunity to achieve their best quality of life.
4. Why is recreation therapy important for seniors and senior housing communities?
Recreation therapy is important for seniors because it provides opportunities for individuals to experience joy, challenge themselves, socialize with others, try new things, find relaxation along with many more benefits at every stage of life. Adjusting to moving into a new place can feel overwhelming, recreation therapy is a great way to make the adjustment feel smoother and feel connected to fellow residents.
5. What do you love most about your job? Could you describe a little?
There are so many things that I love about my job. I love to see residents smiling and having fun while doing an activity they enjoy. I love seeing residents achieving goals after challenging themselves and trying a new activity out of their comfort zone. I love all the stories and knowledge residents share with me each day, I learn so much from them.
6. Any activities that were successful or unique that you would like to share?
I am currently at the start of my journey as a recreation therapist, so I am excited to get creative to provide fun and engaging activities for the residents.
7. Since February is Recreation Therapy Month, is there anything you would like to share or add to the conversation?
Recreation has the ability to provide individuals with so many benefits and Therapeutic Recreation encompasses so much more than people think . I am excited to see the Therapeutic Recreation field grow and expand over the next years.