On a mission to remind people of their self-worth and joy
Think of some of your go-to activities that uplift you—a game you never tire of playing, a genre of music that speaks to you, or a soothing creative outlet. How often do you incorporate play into your schedule for a break?
During a hospital stay, hobbies and interests can take on new importance. Activities that lift our spirits become part of the healing process during a difficult time. Often, however, for the duration of a hospital stay, patients can’t approach an activity exactly the same way. That’s where Recreational Therapists step in: they guide patients into light-hearted experiences, helping them feel like themselves, no matter their state of health.
This month of February, all of North America celebrates the role of Recreational Therapists as part of the care team. We want to introduce you to a Recreational Therapist who’s been working at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) for 11 years.
Meet Alexandra Telamon
Alexandra currently works alongside a devoted team of Recreational Therapists and professionals at the Camille Lefebvre Pavilion (CHSLD), a long-term care facility. She finds it very meaningful to work with the residents who live there.
We asked Alexandra, what does ‘We are the MUHC’ mean to you?
“The residents bring with them a lifetime of experiences, histories, and cultures,” Alexandra begins. “And so, ‘We are the MUHC’ means better understanding who our patients are beyond their care needs. I am able to learn from residents at Camille Lefebvre through simple conversations, telling stories, as well as spending time together. My work, in a way, allows me to re-experience parts of their lives with them!”
Alexandra mentions that, in long-term care, it is especially important to establish a genuine human connection. “Helping residents stay connected to others, to their culture, and to their favourite experiences is a big part of my role. Through music therapy and other great activities, residents can relive life moments and feel a sense of belonging. Familiar experiences, even when they seem small, have a real impact on the person’s day.”
Language is taken to heart by the rec therapy team. Many staff members speak diverse languages like Creole or Italian and are open to learning the basics of new languages, too. All residents are strongly encouraged to teach words or helpful phrases to staff in their mother-tongue.
Fun fact: bingo tournaments are held in other languages including Spanish!
“We’re enthusiastic about learning the person’s language and listening to music in other languages. It’s always about making the resident feel more at home,” shares Alexandra.
No matter the condition or diagnosis, it is important to maintain a lifestyle where there’s time for leisure and joy. Happy Recreational Therapy Month!