The Empowering Language Framework: A Model for Recreational Therapy to Foster Autonomy in Older Adults

Vollständiger Abstract

Worum geht es in dieser Arbeit?

With the increasing number of older adults living in nursing and assisted living homes, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRSs) proactively address issues that impact well-being, such as decreased autonomy. CTRSs serving older adults in the United States utilize a skill set that is uniquely positioned to promote autonomy through therapeutic relationship development and a person-centered care ideology. This conceptual paper proposes the Empowering Language Framework (ELF), an applied practice model that integrates established empowering language principles with a therapeutic recreation theoretical foundation to strengthen autonomy in older adults. ELF integrates self-determination theory, person-centered care, and the Flourishing Through Leisure Model with communication research that demonstrates the impact language has on autonomy. The framework identifies evidence-based language choices that reduce autonomy, such as stereotyping, elderspeak, or a paternalistic style. Empowering language approaches are recommended, such as person-first language, strength-based, and respectful dialogue. This language framework provides CTRSs with a tool that fosters autonomy in older adults. This framework offers application for practice and provides a foundation for the investigation of language based-interventions to improve autonomy and quality of life in older adults.