Next, the therapist prepares a list of activities that capitalize on the patient's strengths and interests. Recreational therapists understand this, and set goals accordingly. A patient who has trouble socializing, for example, may express interest in chess but be overwhelmed by the prospect of actually playing since that involves interaction with another person. Recreational therapists are careful to observe patients' reactions to the activities in which they are involved. Observations such as these provide the basis for the therapist's periodic review of each patient's condition changes.
Documentation is an important part of the recreational therapist's job.
Among the records the therapist must keep are the initial evaluation, progress notes, reports to the physician, internal staff notes, Medicare records, and discharge notes. These records are used to keep track of the patient's condition, document treatment programs, and monitor progress. In nursing homes, recreational therapists evaluate residents' capabilities much as they do in hospitals. They look at medical records, talk with residents to learn about their interests, and discuss their condition with other members of the staff. Often, the therapist groups residents according to common or shared interests and similar ability levels, and plans field trips, entertainment events, baking, exercise, dancing activities, and the like for the group.