Recreation Management in Gerontology is a unique diploma program that will teach you the specialized skills required to work with older adults. Over the course of two years, you’ll learn how to design therapeutic programs for older adults that consider the physical, mental and spiritual perspectives of the aging process.

You’ll start by developing strong communication skills – both from a management and interpersonal perspective. This work requires the ability to work with people across different life stages so effective communication skills are essential to the job. You will go on to develop coordinator skills that will prepare you to manage physical, financial and human resources.

You’ll also study the science and theory behind aging. This in-depth look at the biological changes of aging includes an understanding of diseases often related to aging like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Hands-on learning is a major component of this program. To help you gain confidence as you learn to create specialized therapeutic programs, you’ll get lots of practice both on-site at our 21,000+ square foot Simulation Centre facility and off-site with one of our field placement partners. You’ll also learn proper documentation and Resident Assessment Instrument – Minimum Data Set (RAI-MDS) training.

This academically challenging program will equip you with the skills required to provide therapeutic recreation in a variety of settings that include long-term care facilities, retirement homes, community based service agencies and adult day programs.

If you are someone who is energetic, organized, creative and enjoys working with older adults, consider this profession.

PROGRAM STANDARDS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Function effectively as a member of an inter-professional team in the development and provision of health promoting and life enhancing services and programs for older adults.
• Accurately and comprehensively assess and record the ongoing needs of the older adult using a variety of widely used electronic systems.
• Develop, coordinate, deliver and evaluate a variety of services/programs that enhance clients’ level of functioning and quality of life by applying relevant research and theory to practice.
• Apply appropriate health and safety protocols in order to protect the health, safety and well-being of their clients, their co-workers and themselves.
• Communicate effectively using a variety of therapeutic techniques and in adherence with privacy and freedom of information legislation.
• Identify, select and use appropriate professional and community resources to meet the needs of the older adult.
• Ensure programs operate in compliance with relevant policy, legislation and standards of practice for services to older adults in a variety of settings.
• Establish and maintain professional and ethical standards in the field of activation gerontology as set out by relevant professional bodies.
• Promote accessible, inclusive and responsive programs and services by recognizing the diverse needs and experiences of individuals, groups, families and communities.

YOUR CAREER

The increase in the number of older adults has created a growing demand for workers with knowledge and skills specific to the needs of later life.

Graduates are employed to provide person-centered care through the management and delivery of recreational and social activities in a variety of settings such as:

• adult day centres
• active living centres
• community centres
• long-term care homes
• retirement homes
• community-based service agencies

As Canada's population continues to age, employment opportunities are growing rapidly.