So often recreation is not a consideration when looking at a health care facility; items such as distance from family, the nursing care, the look of a facility and the cost play the biggest factors. Yet an excellent recreation program will provide you or your loved one with a quality of life far above what you could imagine.

Recreation gives you or your loved one a purpose, they give you a sense of being part of something and they keep you busy with in your community.  For those dealing with an acute illness recreation gives the ability to take you or your loved one away from the monotony of the doctors, nurses and health concerns and provides a bright spot in your day.

Recreation is more than just bingo.  Recreational programs have evolved from your average dayroom programs that people commonly think of.  How about a trip to the YMCA to swim, going to Wal-Mart to shop, attending library programs, going to fish out by the pond, or roasting marshmallows while reminiscing by a campfire. They also could be more individualized like helping to deliver mail, doing the weeding out in the garden, or helping the hair dresser maintain her appointment.

When looking at long term care or rehabilitation facilities, always remember to look for a diverse calendar of programs for all levels of care. You should see physical, spiritual, social, and educational programs. There should also be involvement from the community coming into the facility, pet therapy, bus trips out into the community, and special events several times a month.  Also you should see a separate calendar for dementia care which includes sensory stimulation, and encouragement of life skills.

If you or your loved one has certain interests talk to the recreation director and find out how they will individualize your care. Keeping active in your spare time is crucial to your mental and physical well being, the facility should help you maintain a life style that you are comfortable with.