VWC Course Outline

INSTRUCTOR'S NAME: Nancy D. Montgomery

COURSE TITLE: Therapeutic Recreation Programming for the Aged

COURSE NUMBER: REC 211

COURSE DESCRIPTION: A three credit course designed to present an overview of the aged with respect to recreation and leisure services. The course will explore the aging process in the physiological, psychological and social domains. Therapy, leisure education and recreation participation will be studied with respect to various settings. Field work is required.

TEXT: Leitner, Michael J. and Sara F. Leitner (1985). LEISURE IN LATER LIFE: A Sourcebook for the Provision of Recreational Services for Elders. Binghamton, NY: The Haworth Press, Inc.

SUPPLEMENTAL READINGS: As assigned by instructor.

COMPETENCIES: Note: Numbers in parentheses refer to the NRPA/AALR accreditation standard(s). The competency meets or aids in meeting the standard(s).
  1. To examine the physiological, psychological and social characteristics of the elderly. (7.07)
  2. To comprehend the needs, similarities and differences between frail elderly and well elderly.
  3. To identify the various settings and recreational services for the elderly. (8.15)
  4. To identify and examine current issues in providing leisure services to the elderly.
  5. To understand and assist in the facilitation of the Leisure Lifestyle concept in relation to the elderly as dictated by need and setting. (8.17)
  6. To examine and utilize resources for recreation programs for the elderly.
  7. To understand and apply techniques used with the elderly such as Life Review, Remotivation and Reality Orientation.
  8. To develop an understanding of the patience and sensitivity required for working successfully with the elderly.
  9. To learn and understand the therapeutic recreation requirements in relation to programs, services and documentation required in J.C.A.H.O. and H.C.F.A. accredited facilities.
  10. To assist in the planning and implementation of leisure programs in two different settings. (8.16) (8.39)
  11. To assess client needs in relation to the provision of therapeutic recreation services and the mission of the agency. (8.20)
MATERIALS USED: Hand-outs, videotapes

METHOD OF INSTRUCTION: Lecture, class discussion, practical experience

OUTLINE OF TOPICS:
  1. Introduction
  2. Characteristics of Aging
  3. Leisure Service Settings
  4. Application of the Therapeutic Recreation Service Model
  5. Therapeutic Recreation Services
  6. Special Techniques
  7. Therapeutic Recreation Program Requirements
  8. Issues affecting Therapeutic Recreation Services for the Elderly
CLASS POLICIES:
  1. Regular, prompt attendance is required
  2. Class assignments are due on the specified date; each day an assignment is late, one letter grade will be subtracted.
  3. Practical experience between 2 different settings is required.
  4. A schedule of the dates, times and place(s) of Practical Work must be turned in to the instructor by the sixth class period.
  5. Class participation should be of a quality nature and generous amount. Ten percent of each students final grade will be based on attendance and participation as viewed by the instructor; therefore it behooves the student to take an active role in class.
METHOD OF EVALUATING INSTRUCTOR'S PERFORMANCE: Standard college evaluation form, formal and informal feedback.



VWC REC 211
Practical Experience Guidelines

GENERAL
  1. You represent Virginia Wesleyan College, therefore your actions and appearance should always be exemplary.
  2. If you are unsure of your actions in any situation, ask a staff member for assistance before an incident can occur.
  3. Always report to "work" fifteen minutes prior to your scheduled time of arrival and let the coordinator know you are present.
  4. On your first day in the program get the coordinator's phone number so you can call prior to the start of the program if you are late or sick.
  5. Never have a participant(s) left in your care unattended at any time.
  6. You are expected to assist in the execution of the program at all times. DO NOT OBSERVE unless directed to do so, actively participate.
  7. Commitment Form: After reviewing the available practical experience options for compatibility with your schedule, create a form and turn it in at the beginning of class on February 17, 1992. Include your name, address, phone number and each date, time, and place you will volunteer. Write and sign a statement citing your willingness to commit to the stated hours and complete the work as a volunteer.

    This form represents your personal commitment and obligates you to carry out the assignments as stated. Failure to follow through on your obligations will be reflected in your grade.

    Alteration of your initial commitment form may be achieved only as approved by the course instructor and the agency representative.

Journal

  1. Journal entries must be completed after each program visitation. Each report must be kept in a looseleaf notebook and include the following:
  2. Journals should be typed.
  3. Journals will be checked three different times. Dates will be provided during class.