Innovation in therapeutic engagement: exploring creative approaches in Diversional Therapy
In the evolving healthcare landscape, the Diversional Therapist’s role is finally being recognised.
Our creative and innovative approach is being valued in a world that is more aware of the holistic nature of health and well-being. No longer are we seen as being there just to tick the boxes to meet audit requirements or fill in time till the next meal. How well I remember trying to run an activity with residents and being told that I needed to keep Mrs X with me till lunchtime so she wouldn’t wander off and then having to stop what I was doing every few minutes to round her up!
One of the things I love about my job is the scope I have to be creative and responsive to the needs of the people I’m working with, whatever the setting. I have to be mindful of policy and procedure of course, but I can use my own initiative and judgement to design and adapt activities to suit the group in front of me. The advent of technology has had a huge impact over recent years, especially since Covid-19 arrived. We are able to harness the power of digital devices to enhance and support activities and share them with friends and family.
A great example of this is story building. Here, participants can embark on a journey of self-expression with photos, voice recordings, music and memorabilia to create a unique record of their lives to pass on to younger generations. The benefits of this activity are endless: engaging cognitive skills associated with organising and articulating thoughts, triggering memories, encouraging social interaction and nurturing emotional well-being by fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-expression.
Open-ended activities like this also allow for cultural sensitivity as everyone tells their own story, and everyone’s story is valid. Quality diversional therapy acknowledges the rich tapestry of backgrounds and beliefs that people bring to the table. Activities are designed to be inclusive and respectful, which, in turn, promotes a sense of belonging and validation for everyone involved.
Diversional therapy is empowering patients to be involved in their own healthcare, offering choices and encouraging decision-making. When people take an active role in their therapeutic activities, they feel in control of their journey, fostering independence and self-worth in an environment where they may feel they are losing both. A Diversional Therapist can calm the restless, bring smiles to the sad and dispirited, and engage and interact with the diverse range of cultures and ages of people coming into care.
As healthcare professionals, our commitment to innovative diversional therapy means that we are always learning and evolving, just as our patients are.
Each day is an opportunity to discover new creative approaches, to witness the impact of diversional therapy programs, and celebrate the unique stories that unfold within the healing spaces we create.
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