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Recreational Therapy and Programming

Explore Our Calendar of Activities

What Recreational Therapy Programs are Available at PHS?

At PHS, we believe that wellness is more than physical health. It’s about living with purpose, connection, and joy. That’s where Recreational Therapy comes in.

Recreational Therapy uses leisure-based interventions such as music, art, fitness, and social activities to improve quality of life, support independence, and address the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs of each resident.

Our Recreation Department offers a full calendar of engaging, therapeutic, and person-centered programs designed to promote well-being in every domain. Whether a resident wants to sing in our glee club, join a walking group, participate in memory-enhancing games, or simply enjoy a themed party with friends, we create opportunities that are meaningful to them.

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What Sets Us Apart?

  • We take a person-centered, therapeutic approach, not just entertainment
  • We offer adaptive programming for all levels of ability, including residents living with dementia
  • We are a Recreational Therapy program, which means our focus goes beyond keeping residents busy, we use evidence-based practices to enhance overall wellness, support independence, and promote meaningful engagement
  • This distinction helps us design programs that aren’t just fun—but functional, therapeutic, and deeply enriching for the seniors we serve
  • We collaborate with Physical and Occupational Therapy to help bridge clinical goals with daily life, offering recreational programs that support strength, balance, independence, and overall wellness
  • We ensure each resident is known, their interests, history, and goals guide our planning

Our Programs Include:

  • Daily exercise and movement classes
  • Pool and aquatic fitness programs
  • Music and creative arts therapy
  • Memory care and sensory-based activities
  • Community outings and live entertainment
  • Intergenerational programming and volunteer visits
  • Spiritual and educational enrichment
  • Seasonal events and celebrations

At PHS, recreational therapy isn’t just an add-on! It’s part of how we help our residents live fully and meaningfully every day.

Read our December Newsletter

Meet Our Staff

 

Meet Jennifer Bushati CTRS, Certified Dementia Practitioner
Director of Recreation

Jennifer Bushati is a nationally certified Recreational Therapist (CTRS) and Certified Dementia Practitioner, with specialized certifications in Geriatric Aquatics and Chair Yoga. She leads the Recreation Department at PHS with creativity, clinical insight, and an unwavering dedication to the well-being of older adults.

Jennifer’s work is rooted in deep respect for the senior population. She believes that every resident, regardless of age, background, or ability, deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. Through thoughtfully designed programs that range from adapted fitness and expressive arts to memory care, music, and meaningful social experiences, she ensures that each resident has the opportunity to live fully and with purpose.

“Recreational therapy helps people find joy in what remains—and discover what’s still possible.”

Meet Rebecca Proscia
Assistant Director of Recreation

Rebecca Proscia is a Recreational Therapist specializing in geriatrics and elder care. She prioritizes each resident’s unique needs and goals while leading programs, planning events, and curating our social media. Rebecca takes pride in building meaningful relationships with residents—connections rooted in trust, loyalty, and kindness.

Her creativity and strong problem-solving skills empower her to serve residents thoughtfully and collaborate closely with staff. Rebecca brings joy, comfort, and consistent support to the community at Plattduetsche Home Society.

“The word recreation is really a very beautiful word. It is defined in the dictionary as ‘the process of giving new life to something, of refreshing something, of restoring something.’ This something, of course, is the whole person.” —Bruno Hans Geba

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