Community Geriatric Psychiatry Recreation Therapy

Natalie Voegeli, Kristi Getz, Marissa Waite, Nina Begaso, Khadine John, Mikhaela Reyes

The newly renamed Community Geriatric Psychiatry Recreation Therapy team established a new approach to programming to support healthy aging for seniors in the community through the establishment of multiple informal community partnerships. The team consulted with referring agencies to develop a new progressive recreation therapy programming model to improve capacity, coverage and connection. Groups consulted or partnered with include SAGE, the Edmonton Public Library, Edmonton Transit, the Reuse Centre, Momentum Counselling and Alberta Pet Therapy Society.

A key connection point in the community the concept of blending recreation therapy programming into senior centres continues to evolve. Since launching the new programming model in mid-September 2025, the team visits seven different seniors’ centres weekly. In January 2026 they increased to nine seniors’ centres. This is in addition to coordinating small group tours and introductions to seven additional centres in Edmonton and the surrounding area.

With these new partnerships, the team empowered participants to explore meaningful leisure opportunities and social connections. Several former clients are now taking active roles in their new communities by mentoring newcomers and helping them feel welcome. Seniors’ centres embraced this approach and are promoting inclusion and awareness among their members. This collaboration allows for reciprocal learning as the team shares resources and accessibility guidance to reduce barriers and improve participation.