The roles they play

In Ontario, both SLPs and audiologists are regulated by the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO). According to CASLPO,

“SLPs are concerned with the identification, assessment, treatment, (re)habilitation and prevention of communication and/or swallowing disorders in children and adults.” They go on to explain that, “Audiologists are concerned with the prevention, identification, assessment, treatment, and (re)habilitation of auditory and balance difficulties in children and adults.”

Both professions manage a varied approach to their practice, including:

• Screening and assessment
• Dispensing of equipment
• Patient, staff, and family education
• Participation in rounds and discharge planning
• Individualized and group therapy
• Coordination of care with other staff

An interprofessional approach

Interprofessional collaboration is key to patient care at Sunnybrook. Audiologists and SLPs are vital to a variety of teams across multiple programs. At Sunnybrook’s Bayview Campus, audiologists work with otolaryngologists and hearing instrument specialists to operate a hearing aid clinic and Canada’s largest Adult Cochlear Implant Program. Speech language pathologists work in 8 of the 10 care programs at Sunnybrook, across all campuses. They provide care across acute care, transitional care, long-term care, palliative care and ambulatory care settings.

The intersection of communication

Both professions bring valuable expertise to the patient experience in different ways. What connects these roles is something that connects us all: communication! Audiologists and SLPs are dedicated to the improvement of communicative ability, both incoming and outgoing.

To that end, communicative disorders assistants (CDA) aim to support the cause by facilitating pathways for meaningful, effective communication. Jason Dallas is a CDA who works at our Veteran’s Centre and supports the audiology and SLP departments.

“Communication is a fundamental human right. I often hear how impairments in hearing or communicative ability can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation. I believe the work of Audiologists and SLPs is so important, and our residents and patients agree wholeheartedly!”

Communication strategies for everyday life

Whether you’re supporting someone with a communication disorder or seeking to enhance your own interactions, the following strategies will prove beneficial in supporting effective communication:

• Speak at a moderate pace and volume
  • Focus on speaking clearly
• Face your communication partner, and speak at eye level
  • In an environment where people are often masked, this can greatly enhance intelligibility
• Make sure important information has been heard correctly by asking the listener to repeat it back to you (e.g., appointment times; medication instructions)
• Reduce or eliminate background noise as much as possible
• To make sure that hearing aids are working:
  • Check that battery doors are fully closed OR
  • Make sure that rechargeable hearing aids are properly charged every night (cup the hearing aids in your hands and listen for feedback – feedback means sound is getting through)

At Sunnybrook, our commitment to communicative health is evident in the collaborative efforts of SLPs and audiologists. For more information, or if you think you require the services of an SLP or audiologist, visit:

• CASLPO (College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario)
• SAC – OAC (Speech-Language and Audiology Canada)

The post Communication is care: The fundamental work of Sunnybrook’s audiologists and speech-language pathologists appeared first on Your Health Matters.

February is Recreation Therapy Month and in honour of the many Recreation Therapists who support patient care at Sunnybrook, let’s set the record straight by addressing some common myths!

Myth #1: Recreation Therapy Is just playing games

Reality: While fun and enjoyment are important in Recreation Therapy, the activities are purposeful and goal-oriented. Whether it’s facilitating adapted sports, music and art programming, meaningful connections or brain aerobics, every program is designed to address the domains of well-being (social, cognitive, physical, spiritual and emotional). Recreation Therapists use specific facilitation techniques to help patients regain or adapt to their new abilities, build confidence and improve their overall quality of life.

Myth #2: Recreation Therapy is not a “real” therapy

Reality: Recreation Therapy is a recognized health-care profession, backed by research and delivered by certified professionals. Recreation therapists use evidence-based, relational practices to address conditions such as brain injuries, strokes, mental health disorders, and chronic illnesses. Recreation Therapy is not an add-on; it’s a vital part of holistic care that complements medical and rehabilitative treatments.

Myth #3: Recreation Therapy is only for children or the elderly

Reality: While Recreation Therapy is widely used in pediatric and geriatric care, it benefits people of all ages. Individuals recovering from surgeries, managing mental health conditions or rehabilitating from injuries can all gain from personalized Recreation Therapy programs. Whether it’s a young adult overcoming anxiety through expressive arts or a middle-aged patient regaining mobility through a variety of active games (e.g., seated volleyball, dance, tennis, Wii Sports, Bocce Ball). Recreation Therapy is for everyone.

Myth #4: Anyone can provide/facilitate Recreation Therapy

Reality: Registered Recreation Therapists of Ontario (R/TRO) and Certified Recreation Therapists (CTRS) are specially educated and trained to assess patient needs and develop tailored programs. They must meet academic requirements by obtaining a degree in Therapeutic Recreation, which included the completion of a 560-hour clinical internship and often obtain professional certification. Their expertise makes sure that their programs are safe, effective and aligned with patient goals.

Myth #5: Recreation Therapy isn’t as important as Physical or Occupational Therapy

Reality: Recreation Therapy works alongside other therapies to provide a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. While physical and occupational therapies focus on specific physical functions, Recreation Therapy addresses emotional, cognitive and social needs. Many patients find Recreation Therapy to be the key to regaining motivation to participate in PT/OT, rediscovering joy and reintegrating into their communities.

Myth #6: Is only for people with severe disabilities

Reality: Recreation Therapy benefits individuals across a wide spectrum of abilities and health conditions. Whether someone is dealing with stress, recovering from surgery, managing a chronic illness, integrating to a new community, interested in building social connection and beyond, Recreation Therapy offers valuable coping mechanisms and lifestyle adaptations to promote long-term wellness.

What it all comes down to…

Recreation therapy is far more than just fun and games—it’s a powerful therapeutic tool that enhances well-being and recovery. If you or a loved one are receiving Recreation Therapy services, know that each activity is designed with purpose and professional expertise. By breaking these misconceptions, we can better appreciate the role of Recreation Therapy in fostering health, independence and quality of life for patients of all backgrounds. Happy Recreation Therapy Month!

The post Breaking the Myths: What Recreation Therapy Really is appeared first on Your Health Matters.