Hospice Recreation Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of holistic healthcare, the role of Hospice Recreation Therapists is becoming increasingly crucial.

As our society prioritizes compassionate end-of-life care, the demand for skilled professionals who can provide meaningful activities and therapeutic recreation for hospice patients is on the rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Hospice Recreation Therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker seeking to understand the depths of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of hospice recreation therapy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Hospice Recreation Therapist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Hospice Recreation Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Hospice Recreation Therapists work directly with patients in hospice care, using therapeutic recreation activities to improve their physical, social, and emotional well-being.

They work closely with other members of the care team to provide a holistic approach to end-of-life care.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing the needs, abilities, and interests of patients
• Developing individualized therapeutic recreation plans based on patient assessments
• Implementing a wide range of recreation activities, including arts and crafts, music, games, and physical activities
• Monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary
• Working closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care
• Providing emotional support and counseling to patients and their families
• Documenting and maintaining accurate patient records
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest therapeutic recreation techniques and trends
• Ensuring that all activities are conducted in a safe and effective manner
• Providing education to patients and their families about the benefits of therapeutic recreation

 

Hospice Recreation Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a compassionate and dedicated Hospice Recreation Therapist to join our team.

As a Hospice Recreation Therapist, your primary responsibility will be to improve the quality of life for our patients through therapeutic recreational activities.

These activities aim to help patients cope with the challenges of their conditions, improve their physical and emotional wellbeing, and provide support during this challenging period.

Our ideal candidate is a patient, empathetic professional with a background in therapeutic recreation or a related field and a passion for providing quality end-of-life care.

 

Responsibilities

• Assess patients’ needs, capabilities, and interests to develop appropriate therapeutic recreation plans
• Implement and manage recreational therapy programs for patients
• Monitor patient progress and adjust therapy programs as needed
• Encourage patients to participate in therapeutic activities and provide necessary support
• Educate patients and families about the benefits of therapeutic recreation
• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive patient care
• Maintain patient records, including assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes
• Adhere to all relevant regulations and ethical standards
• Stay up-to-date with the latest industry developments and best practices

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Recreation Therapist, preferably in a hospice setting
• Knowledge of various therapeutic recreational interventions and techniques
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Patience, compassion, and the ability to handle emotionally charged situations
• Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team
• Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation or a related field
• Certification as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist is strongly preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible schedule

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Hospice Recreation Therapist
• Work Environment: Hospice care environment. This job may require working evenings and weekends.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Hospice Care Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Hospice Recreation Therapist Do?

Hospice Recreation Therapists work primarily in the field of palliative care, helping patients who are terminally ill or have serious life-limiting illnesses.

These professionals create and implement individualized therapeutic recreation programs to meet the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients.

The programs may include art and music therapy, gardening, reminiscence therapy, pet therapy, and other activities that bring comfort, enjoyment, and improve the quality of life.

Hospice Recreation Therapists collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses, social workers, and family members to ensure the therapeutic program aligns with the patient’s abilities, interests, and preferences.

They also assess patients’ progress and make necessary adjustments to the therapeutic plan.

They provide emotional support to patients, help them cope with their conditions and improve their well-being.

Moreover, they educate family members and caregivers on how to engage patients in meaningful activities that can further enhance their quality of life.

 

Hospice Recreation Therapist Qualifications and Skills

A hospice recreation therapist should possess a combination of technical skills, personal attributes, and industry knowledge to help patients improve their emotional, physical, and mental well-being through therapeutic activities.

These include:

• Excellent interpersonal skills to connect with patients and their families during a difficult period, providing a comforting and supportive presence.
• Knowledge of various therapeutic recreational activities, and the ability to adapt them to individual patient needs and abilities.
• Strong communication skills to effectively express care plans to patients, families, and the healthcare team, as well as to listen and understand the needs and concerns of the patients.
• Empathy and compassion for understanding and addressing the emotional, physical, and mental struggles patients may be experiencing.
• Problem-solving skills to address challenges that may arise during therapy sessions and find suitable solutions that cater to the patient’s comfort and well-being.
• Patience and adaptability to adjust to the changing needs and abilities of patients, ensuring they receive the most beneficial therapy.
• Physical fitness to assist in lifting or moving patients when necessary and to conduct active recreational therapy sessions.
• Proficiency in record keeping for accurately documenting patient progress, changes in condition, and therapy plans.

 

Hospice Recreation Therapist Experience Requirements

Hospice Recreation Therapists typically require a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation, recreational therapy, or a related field.

This education provides a foundation of theory and practical application, equipping them for their role in a hospice setting.

Experience requirements often begin with internships or practicum experiences during the degree program.

These provide essential hands-on experience in various therapeutic recreation settings and allow students to apply their learned skills to real-world scenarios.

Entry-level Hospice Recreation Therapists may have up to 2 years of practical experience, which could include part-time roles or volunteer work in a healthcare setting.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have more specialized skills or expertise, such as developing individualized therapeutic plans for patients with complex conditions or tailoring activities to meet specific patient needs.

Those with over 5 years of experience are likely to have gained supervisory or managerial experience, making them well suited for leadership roles within a hospice care team.

These professionals may have experience in coordinating teams, designing innovative therapy programs, and implementing therapeutic recreation policies and procedures.

In addition to these, Hospice Recreation Therapists typically need to be certified by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) or an equivalent certifying body.

This usually involves a combination of education, field experience, and successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

 

Hospice Recreation Therapist Education and Training Requirements

To become a Hospice Recreation Therapist, a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation or a related field such as psychology or occupational therapy is typically required.

During their studies, they learn about human anatomy, psychology, medical and psychiatric terminology, and the benefits of leisure activities for the health and wellness of patients.

They are also trained on therapeutic techniques, assessment and documentation of patient progress.

Many employers prefer candidates who are Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS).

The certification, offered by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC), requires completion of a bachelor’s degree, a formal internship and passing a national exam.

In addition to the certification, some states may require licensure to practice therapeutic recreation.

This often involves fulfilling education and experience requirements and passing an examination.

Continuing education is also crucial in this profession to keep up with latest research and therapy techniques.

Some Therapists may also pursue a master’s degree in recreational therapy or a related field for advancement in their career.

Experience working with terminally ill patients, either through internships or jobs, is also beneficial for a Hospice Recreation Therapist.

This will help them develop the necessary empathy and understanding to work in a hospice setting.

 

Hospice Recreation Therapist Salary Expectations

A Hospice Recreation Therapist can expect to earn an average salary of $48,220 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate based on factors such as years of professional experience, educational qualifications, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Hospice Recreation Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Hospice Recreation Therapist need?

A Hospice Recreation Therapist needs a wide range of skills, including empathy, compassion, and excellent communication to interact effectively with patients and their families.

They should be creative to design and implement various therapeutic recreational activities tailored to the patients’ interests and abilities.

They also need good problem-solving skills and patience to deal with the challenges associated with caring for individuals in hospice care.

 

Do Hospice Recreation Therapists need a degree?

Yes, Hospice Recreation Therapists usually need a bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy or a related field.

Some roles may even require a master’s degree or certification.

They also need to have relevant clinical experience, often gained through internships or supervised training programs.

 

What should you look for in a Hospice Recreation Therapist resume?

When reviewing a Hospice Recreation Therapist’s resume, look for a degree in recreational therapy or a related field and relevant certifications.

Prior experience in hospice or palliative care is a significant plus.

The resume should also highlight skills such as empathy, creativity, and excellent communication.

Evidence of ongoing professional development and training can also be a good sign.

 

What qualities make a good Hospice Recreation Therapist?

A good Hospice Recreation Therapist is compassionate, patient, and has a genuine desire to help improve the quality of life for people in hospice care.

They should be creative and flexible, able to adapt to the changing needs and abilities of their patients.

Excellent communication skills are also important, as they need to interact effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.

 

What are the daily duties of a Hospice Recreation Therapist?

A Hospice Recreation Therapist’s daily duties include assessing patients’ recreational interests and needs, planning and implementing therapeutic recreational activities, and evaluating the effectiveness of these activities.

They may also provide individual or group counseling, document patients’ progress, and communicate with other healthcare professionals to ensure integrated care.

Additionally, they may engage in supportive tasks such as comforting and providing emotional support to patients and their families.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a Hospice Recreation Therapist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about planning activities.

It’s about creating a comforting, engaging environment for patients nearing the end of their life, one activity at a time.

With our comprehensive Hospice Recreation Therapist job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make a career move.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every activity planned is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s create that comforting environment. Together.

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