Recreational Therapies

Everyone has the capacity for creative expression. Recreational therapies are an integral part of life at Salem Lutheran Homes & Rehabilitation Center and by providing a multitude of therapy options means our programs have something for you.

We offer programs & activities designed to meet the physical, cultural, social, cognitive, emotional and creative needs of our residents.

Music Therapy

Provided by Music Speaks, LLC out of Grimes, Iowa, music therapy uses music to focus on the needs of people of all ages. Music has been proven to reduce anxiety, spark memories of happy times, and stimulate the senses with rhythm and melodies.

“Music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind & gives it rest, heals the heart & makes it whole, flows from Heaven to the soul.” - Author Unknown

Art Therapy

Provided by New Century Art Guild, Inc. out of Kimballton, Iowa, art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Art has been used to improve memory and keep the mind sharp, promote dexterity, reduce stress, and alleviate pain in a fun, casual & social environment.

“Art is our one true global language. It knows no nation, it favors no race, and it acknowledges no class. It speaks to our need to reveal, heal, and transform. It transcends our ordinary lives and lets us imagine what is possible.” – Richard Kamler, artist, educator & curator

Pet Therapy

Provided by Salem’s many volunteers who bring in their pets to share with our residents; pet therapy is used to improve a person’s social, emotional, or cognitive functioning. Pet therapy has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, release pain, lift sprits, encourage communication, and create motivation by reducing loneliness.

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” – Anatole France, French poet, journalist, and novelist

Horticulture Therapy

Provided naturally at Salem through the use of our beautiful courtyards, horticulture therapy is the practice of engaging people in plant or gardening activities to improve their bodies, minds and spirits. It is a time-proven practice used to assist our residents in learning new skills or regaining those they have lost. Horticulture therapy helps improve memory, cognitive abilities, task initiation, language skills, and socialization. It can also help strengthen muscles, improve coordination, balance and endurance.

“The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, hearth with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just on the body, but the soul.” – Alfred Austin, English poet