Service Learning

The senior wellness program was a ten week service learning program outside of the classroom at a local senior living facility. I was paired up with two residents on the dementia unit where I got practice in the lense of a recreational therapist. This class was extremely hands-on and immersive. Through classroom instruction I learned the foundational expectations of program design, implementation, program planning and identifying long-term/short term goals 

 

In the dementia unit, I administered two formal assessment tools ( MMSE and the MoCA) and developed client centered treatment goals for both my residents. I designed and conducted two 1:1 sessions with each of my residents supporting their cognitive, social, and physical needs. I also facilitated two large group activity sessions. During the times where other individuals in the class were facilitated, I was able to support my residents' rec participation. After each session I documented formally through SOAP notes. At the very end of the program I assisted in the set up, take down and participation of a special event. Based on the observation of progress and treatment during the program,  I completed a case study on one of my residents which is attached in the “projects” tab.

 

I was able to apply classroom knowledge and theory to RT practice through the application of my RT philosophy throughout the program. My RT philosophy states that I believe Recreational Therapy is a holistic therapy that uses leisure based interventions to assist clients with illness and disability to promote a satisfying leisure lifestyle by supporting all five behavioral domains through functional intervention. I was able to maintain the symptoms and manifestations of dementia and Alzheimer's through recreational therapy. This experience helped shape my understanding of the role of an RT in long-term care because it showed me all the ways to be creative, think quickly on my feet, and meet my clients where they are supporting them in the ways they need me.

 

The RT skill that became the strongest as I completed this program was building rapport with my clients. It is important to build rapport because it establishes trust. Client trust and rupture are essential to recreational therapy because it enhances client outcomes. This program allowed me to assess my clients personality, likes and dislikes and develop the best client centered approach. In the beginning of the program I created several personal and professional goals to achieve. These include building rapport, refinding documentation, developing programming. My personal goals were to demonstrate leadership, enhance time management, and build upon my interpersonal skills. At the completion of the program, all of my personal and professional goals were met.

 

Overall, the senior wellness program has been the most comprehensive experience as an undergrad. This program has challenged and affirmed my perspectives on disability and I learned a lot about myself. Before the program I was unsure about long term care but I've since fallen in love with it. It's one thing to learn about the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's in class, but another thing to observe the symptoms manifest in real time.It was extremely influential and affirmed my future career goals and professional identity and cannot wait to see what the future holds for me. It has built my confidence, competence and overall professionalism as a future recreational therapist.