Greater Harlem Nursing Home’s Therapeutic Recreation (TR) / Volunteer Services, provides a wide range of goal directed activity, leisure and community based interventions and techniques to improve the physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual needs of our residents.  With the assistance of dedicated Recreation Leaders and Activity Aides, individual and group recreation therapy sessions utilize various activities designed to maximize the goals and quality of life for the residents of Greater Harlem.
           
The Therapeutic Recreation Staff believes that active participation, focuses on enjoyment and self expression through creative arts, special events, games, entertainment and more, offering residents the opportunity to become involved, explore leisure interest and spend quality time with peers, family and friends.
           
TR programs are offered to the resident 7 days a week, smaller Specialized Programs are offered on the units daily, allowing the residents the opportunity to participate in activities in a more intimate setting, i.e.:

• Reality Orientation
• Current Events
• Discussion Groups
• Word Games
• Music Therapy
• Strolling Musician
• Exercise
• Creative Arts, etc.

Residents are also given the opportunity to participate in larger Activity Groups, Special Events and Evening Programs i.e.:

• Dancercise
• Computer Access
• Inspirational Groups
• Men of Distinction (Men’s Group)
• Ladies of Leisure (Women’s Group)
• Monthly Birthday Parties
• Holiday Oriented Events
• Fashion Shows
• Entertainment
• Movies
• BBQ’s (adjacent patio)
• Social Events, etc.

In addition, to holiday celebrations and regularly scheduled program residents have an opportunity to go on community excursions.  Some of our more popular outings are i.e.:

• The Mall
• Local Restaurants
• Stadiums
• Bowling Alleys
• City Tours
• Casinos
• City and State Parks

 
The Department of Therapeutic Recreation (TR) uses treatment, education and recreation services to assist the residents with illnesses, disabilities and other conditions to develop and use their leisure in ways that enhance their health, functional abilities, independence, spiritual well being and quality of life. We provide ongoing program of activities appropriate for the needs and interest of all residents, in a group setting as well, individual, and independent settings.  These programs create an opportunity for each resident to establish and express an independent and active leisure lifestyle.        
 
The TR Department assists residents in: eliminating boredom and barriers to leisure participation; Identifying and developing leisure and social skills; and optimizing leisure and physical functioning.
 
The TR Department provides meaningful social, leisure and diverse activities for each resident based on the assessment of the individual’s leisure needs.  These activities are implemented to stimulate participation in individual and group activities within the facility and community. TR is instrumental in improving the individual’s functional capabilities.