A descriptive study of the status of therapeutic recreation at the seven state-operated comprehensive rehabilitation centers in the United States.

Abstract

The intent of this article is to present a systematic overview of therapeutic recreation services at the seven state-operated Comprehensive Rehabilitation Centers. These seven Centers are located in Hot Springs, Arkansas; Warm Spring, Georgia; Thelma, Kentucky; Baltimore, Maryland; Johnstown, Pennsylvania; Institute, West Virginia; and Fisherville, Virginia. This paper is a result of a study which was conducted from October 1978 to May 1979. The study showed that each of the Centers provided recreation and leisure activities: however, none of the Centers utilized therapeutic recreation as the title of their specific department. In general, the Centers have difficulties in the following areas: 1. defining therapeutic recreation; 2. structuring their department; 3. delivery of therapeutic recreation services; 4. conception of therapeutic recreation as part of the rehabilitation process; 5. inadequately trained personnel in leadership and supervisory positions; 6. staff training; 7. assessment and evaluation instruments for clients; 8. discharge planning; and 9. recreation therapy as a treatment component within the delivery of therapeutic recreation services, All of which need resolution. The research demonstrated that most of the recreation directors saw a need for therapeutic recreation services to be refined further to meet the needs and abilities of the clients.