Out and About on the Farm

NL Health Services recognizes how important it is for long-term care (LTC) residents to stay connected to the community, and we make every effort to provide residents with opportunities to interact with others and enjoy activities that benefit their overall health and well-being.  

A recent partnership with NL Health Services LTC Recreation Therapy Program and Pye Farm in Happy Valley – Goose Bay, provided an opportunity for LTC residents to get out and spend time in nature on the farm.  

“This is our third summer visiting the Pye farm,” says Jeffrey Anderson, recreation development specialist. “We bring residents there to experience different programs such as planting flowers or vegetables, painting rocks for our patio at the long-term care residence, and enjoying some toutons and tea while listening to music. The residents really enjoy these programs as they enjoy being on the land and engaging in conversations with the staff and volunteers throughout the summer.”  

The response from residents confirms that activities like this are appreciated and enjoyed by all.  

“It was a very enjoyable outing that I wish more people were able to experience,” said Matilda McGrath, LTC resident. “On our way back, I was talking to the other residents and they found it very interesting and relaxing as well. Ever since I was placed in long term care and confined to a wheel chair,  I didn’t think I would ever be able to get out and enjoy an outing like the Pye Farm. To see the kids running around, with music in the background and having a boil up with toutons and jam, you cannot top that!”

Photo caption: LTC resident Matilda McGrath enjoying some tea and toutons during a recent visit to Pye Farm as part of the Recreation Therapy program.  

Therapeutic recreation services include a variety of leisure and recreation services on an individualized or group basis to enhance cognitive, social, physical, emotional and spiritual health for LTC residents.  

LTC therapeutic recreation activities are offered on a large/small group, unit and individual basis. Programs may include cards, bingo, special events/celebrations, baking, reminiscence, creative arts, gardening, community outings and a variety of other activities. Monthly activity calendars are prepared so residents and their families are informed of planned daily activities and events.  

“Partnering with local volunteers, community groups and organizations allows us to provide diverse and fulfilling programming for our LTC residents,” says Jennifer McGrath, director of senior care, NL Health Services – Labrador-Grenfell Zone.  A great deal of work goes into planning and organizing each outing to ensure our residents have a safe event with positive outcomes for all participants.”   

Photo Caption: LTC resident Irene Mclean and Darla Seward planting some Coleus.  

What are the benefits of therapeutic recreation? 

• Increases life and leisure satisfaction and perceived quality of life. 

• Increases general cognitive functioning. 

• Increases short-and long-term memory. 

• Decreases confusion and disorientation. 

• Reduces depression and anxiety. 

• Improves general psychological health. 

• Improves social skills, socialization, cooperation, and interpersonal interactions. 

• Improves coping behaviour. 

• Reduces stress levels. 

• Increases self-concept, self-esteem, and adjustment to disability. 

• Reduces self-abusive and inappropriate behaviors. 

• Increases communication and language skills. 

• Increases community integration. 

• Reduces cardiovascular and respiratory risk. 

Photo caption: LTC resident Bert Pike enjoying the fresh air on a sunny day at Pye Farm during their recent visit as part of the Recreational Therapy program.