Academic reflections

Recreational Therapy for older adults

Earlier in my study of the course I have read this book by Richeson and Kemeny's (2019) Recreational Therapy for Older individuals because it has allowed me understand more clearly the significance of meaningful recreation in promoting older individuals' well-being and quality of life. The book made me understand that recreational therapy is more than just offering activities for people to participate in; it is also about taking into account their specific interests, abilities, preferences, circumstances, and requirements when creating meaningful recreational possibilities.

This was especially important when supporting individuals with dementia, as participation can be demonstrated through behavior, facial expressions, or bodily language. Over my internship, I revisited this material, that helped me relate what I acquired in the educational setting to my emerging professional practice and underlined the necessity of delivering meaningful and individualised recreational opportunities.

• Richeson, N. E., & Kemeny, B. (2019). Recreational therapy for older adults. Sagamore Venture.

The experience of Dementia. Aging & Mental Health

Kitwood's work on person-centred dementia care, published in 1997, profoundly influences my developing recreational therapy practice. The main takeaway that resonates is the importance of seeing the person before the diagnosis or limitation. Throughout my studies and placement experience at SummitCare Wallsend, I have learned that meaningful engagement is created when recreation experiences are connected to an individual’s personal interests, abilities, identity, and life story. This idea has influenced the way I approach working with residents, particularly individuals living with dementia or communication difficulties. Rather than focusing on what a person cannot do, I believe recreational therapy should focus on creating opportunities for connection, choice, confidence, and enjoyment. This aligns with my professional values of empathy, inclusion, and person-centred care. As a future recreational therapist, I want to ensure that activities are not simply used to fill time, but are purposeful experiences that support wellbeing, relationships, and a person’s sense of belonging.

• Kitwood, T. (1997). The experience of dementia. Aging & Mental Health, 1(1), 13–22.
  https://doi.org/10.1080/13607869757344

Music-Based Interventions in Dementia

Seibert and Gallagher (2026) propose music-based interventions being a successful approach to aid individuals with dementia. Literature emphasises music's ability to improve participation, communication, emotional well-being, and standard of living. This allowed me comprehend that music is beyond mere entertainment; it may additionally offer opportunities for interaction, creativity, and meaningful engagement.

On my internship at SummitCare Wallsend, I observed ways music was seamlessly integrated into the residents' daily lives with live concerts, choir programs, and music appreciation sessions. Residents were invited to sing along and frequently expressed enthusiasm for the musicians and songs. I observed that music appeared to inspire engagement among seniors that were not normally engaged in other types of activities. This knowledge enabled me identify music's capacity to foster an inclusive environment in which individuals may engage based on their own interests and talents. This experience will influence my future practice by encouraging me to consider meaningful, person-centred activities as an important part of holistic care.

• Seibert, K., & Gallagher, L. M. (2026). Music-Based Interventions in Dementia. Current Treatment Options in Neurology, 28(1), Article 23. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11940-026-00880-y

Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and wellbeing.

 Self-Determination Theory provides a valuable framework to comprehend enthusiasm, involvement, and overall wellness. Ryan and Deci suggest three psychological demands that promote well-being: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. These notions are closely related to Recreation Therapy because meaningful engagement happens when people believe they have choice, capacity, and connection with others.

The theory shaped how I perceived recreational activities during my placement. As opposed to focusing solely on attracting residents participating in events, I've learnt the value of providing options and fostering possibilities that ensure individuals feel valued and accomplished. For instance, tailoring activities to individuals' talents and interests can boost emotions of independence and confidence. This resource supports my professional conviction that Recreation Therapy ought to strengthen individuals and encourage meaningful engagement.

Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and wellbeing. The American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.55.1.68

Community-Based Recreation Therapy and Mental Health Recovery: A Mixed-Media Participatory Action Research Study

This resource was applicable to my placement in an adult mental health facility, where I became aware of the value of meaningful involvement for individuals facing mental health conditions. Throughout my placement, I realised that rehabilitation is more than simply reducing symptoms. It could also entail establishing confidence, developing social relationships, creating routines, and engaging in activities that bring satisfaction and purpose. Ariss et al. (2024) guided me in connecting these insights with a recovery-centered approach to mental health practice.
One essential lesson from the article was the importance of person-centered decision. Not all recreational activities are beneficial or appropriate for all individuals. Individuals ought to be supported to pursue activities that meet their interests, abilities, and rehabilitation goals. The result can promote a stronger sense of autonomy and encourage active participation in their individual recovery.

• Ariss, J. J., Gerlach, A., Baker, J. B., Barry, K., Cooper, L., de Vries, T. L., Halligan, K., & Lacroix, M. (2019). Community-Based Recreation Therapy and Mental Health Recovery: A Mixed-Media Participatory Action Research Study. Progress in Community Health Partnerships, 13(2), 161–170. https://doi.org/10.1353/cpr.2019.0016

Feasibility of the Children's Health Questionnaire for Measuring Outcomes of Recreational Therapy Interventions in Autism Populations

This article was particular relevant to my previous placement experience at Luz All Abilities. Before starting the placement setting, I had read this literature so it that could help me develop my knowledge before entering the placement environment.  The study encouraged me to understand that recreational therapy interventions should not just provide meaningful and pleasurable experiences, but also be assessed to determine whether the individual is benefiting from them. It made me realise how essential it is to measure improvements brought about by recreational therapy treatment using the right assessment instruments.

Lawson, L. M., Hamner, K., & Oligbo, M. (2021). Feasibility of the Children’s Health Questionnaire for Measuring Outcomes of Recreational Therapy Interventions in Autism Populations. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 55(3), 249–263. https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2021-V55-I3-10867