recreational therapy
Meaning of recreational therapy: Recreational therapy uses structured activities such as arts, music, and sports to support physical, emotional, and social functioning during illness or disability.
Definition of recreational therapy
Recreational therapy is a type of therapy that uses structured activities, such as arts and crafts, music, sports, games, and time spent with animals, to help meet the physical, emotional, and social needs of a person living with an illness or disability. It is generally provided by a trained recreational therapist as part of a broader care team.
Rather than focusing narrowly on a single medical outcome, recreational therapy aims to support overall functioning and quality of life, helping a person maintain or regain skills needed for daily living, build confidence and social connection, and find meaningful engagement during a period of illness or recovery. Activities are chosen and adapted based on a person's specific abilities, interests, and goals.
Recreational therapy is used across a range of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long term care facilities, and it is provided alongside, rather than in place of, other medical and psychological treatment a person may be receiving.
Also known as
Used in a sentence
The patient participated in recreational therapy sessions during an extended hospital stay.
Good to know
Recreational therapy is distinct from occupational therapy, which centers specifically on relearning skills needed for daily tasks, though the two disciplines often overlap and are provided together.