Recreational activities in community health care

Recreation is a significant element of preventive health care, used by community health centres as an aid to rehabilitation, moderation of stress and maintenance of health. Although the amount of leisure available to the people is increasing, many are unable to take full advantage of it due to inadequate recreational education or other causes. Community health centres have an educative responsibility in this regard especially towards the unemployed. These centres organize therapeutic and socializing groups for patients in need. Examples are given. Recreational activities are also useful in the relief of stress, during breaks in production in work-places. The principles of safety need to be taught as an essential part of recreational education and the fitness of participants needs to be ensured by screening school children. The planning and erection of playground equipment needs supervision by competent professionals who exist in the community health centres. The conclusion recommends that safety check lists be available for all normal recreations and that everyone should receive adequate education to enable successful participation in recreational activities.