February 27, 2025 | Riverview Retirement & Eastern Washington Occupational Therapy Department
Eastern Washington University OT Students Bring Therapeutic Crafts to Riverview Memory Care Residents
On Tuesday, February 18th, Eastern Washington University’s Master of Occupational Therapy Program partnered with the Riverview Therapy team to bring two groups of OT students to the Veranda Memory Care Unit. This collaboration aimed to engage memory care residents in therapeutic functional activities designed to improve cognitive function and provide a joyful, creative experience.
The OT students facilitated four interactive therapeutic craft groups, where residents actively participated in building birdhouses, creating flowers, painting pots, and planting succulents. These hands-on activities not only encouraged creativity but also helped enhance fine motor skills, improve memory recall, and promote emotional well-being.
In addition to leading the groups, the students provided caregivers with a helpful one-page handout that outlined the activity instructions, necessary supplies, and the benefits of each activity for memory care residents. This resource gave caregivers valuable insights into how to adapt the activities for residents and continue supporting their cognitive and emotional health.
The event fostered a warm, engaging atmosphere, filled with laughter and camaraderie. Residents had the opportunity to create personalized items, such as birdhouses and potted plants, that they could cherish or gift to loved ones. The success of this event not only highlighted the impact of therapeutic activities on memory care residents but also strengthened the community connections between students, caregivers, and residents.
Key Highlights:
- Occupational Therapy students engage in therapeutic crafting with memory care residents.
- Therapeutic activities promote cognitive function, fine motor skills, and emotional well-being.
- Caregivers provided with a handout outlining activity instructions and benefits.
- Residents create personal, heartfelt gifts for themselves and loved ones.
This collaboration between Eastern Washington University’s OT program and Riverview Therapy exemplifies the power of community engagement and the importance of providing enriching experiences for memory care residents.
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