National Therapeutic Recreation Month: The Power of Recreational Therapy in Dementia Care

By Melissa J. Long, CTRS, CDP, CADDCT, CDSGF, DCCS, DCC-CI

Dementia is a journey that affects not only memory, but also mood, behavior, and daily living. While medication can help manage some symptoms, one of the most impactful approaches to improving quality of life is recreational therapy. This non-pharmacological method uses adapted leisure and creative activities to support the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional well-being of individuals living with dementia.

By engaging in tailored activities, people with dementia can experience reduced boredom, anxiety, and agitation, while regaining a sense of dignity, purpose, and connection.

Brain Exercises

How Recreational Therapy Works

1. Personalized Approach

Recreational therapy is never “one size fits all.” A trained and certified recreation therapist begins by assessing the individual’s abilities, challenges, and lifelong interests. From there, activities are selected and tailored to bring meaning and enjoyment.

2. Focus on Strengths

Instead of highlighting what has been lost, therapy builds upon what remains. This strength-based approach empowers individuals and fosters confidence.

3. Adapted Activities

Every activity is carefully adjusted to ensure success. By making tasks achievable, therapy prevents frustration and promotes feelings of accomplishment.

Key Benefits

• Reduced Behavioral Symptoms

  • Meaningful engagement can ease agitation, irritability, and restlessness.

• Improved Social Connection

  • Group programs help reduce loneliness and encourage friendships, improving self-esteem.

• Cognitive and Physical Stimulation

  • Puzzles, music, movement, and games encourage brain activity while keeping the body active and mobile.

• Enhanced Quality of Life

  • By creating moments of joy and purpose, recreational therapy brings comfort and enrichment to everyday life.

Examples of Therapeutic Activities

• Music Sessions

  • Listening to familiar songs can spark memories, reduce stress, and elevate mood.

• Arts and Crafts

  • Painting, drawing, and craft projects provide both mental stimulation and a sense of achievement.

• Gentle Exercise

  • Walking, stretching, or gardening promotes movement, health, and social interaction.

• Memory Games

  • Adapted puzzles, word games, and riddles encourage mental engagement at the right level of challenge.

• Food Preparation

  • Simple, supervised cooking or baking tasks offer sensory stimulation and a rewarding sense of usefulness.

How to Access Recreational Therapy

If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia, ask their healthcare provider about recreational therapy options in your area. Many senior centers, adult day programs, memory care facilities, community services provide these programs, and private practice. Costs and referrals vary, but providers can guide you through available resources.

Final Thoughts

Dementia can be isolating and overwhelming, but recreational therapy offers a pathway to joy, dignity, and connection. By focusing on strengths and creating opportunities for success, it transforms everyday moments into meaningful experiences. For families and caregivers, it can also be a powerful reminder that—even in the face of memory loss—there are still countless ways to live with purpose, creativity, and hope.