Veterans' Arts & Crafts
The Veterans program originated in 1946, as a program for returning war veterans in acute care. It has evolved into a full-time arts and crafts program for war veterans residing in long-term care at Wascana Rehabilitation Centre in Regina. The program is fully funded through Veterans Affairs Canada via the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region.
The focus in the craft room is on positive stimulation, using multi-sensory (snoezelen) concepts in large groups as well as individual visits. Music, coffee, visual stimulation and conversation occur daily and a ‘loyal following’ has led to the craft room being full to capacity most mornings. Individuals are also visited in their rooms. There is a steady core of long-time volunteers, supplemented with university students doing short placements. This allows more one on one attention for those that need it.
This year the veterans planted pansies in hand painted pots for the volunteer Mardi Gras celebration and made journals as gifts for volunteers. Veterans regularly go outdoors to draw with chalk, use gliders and use a bubble machine.
“I enjoy coming here and learning how to do new things. It keeps me active and thinking.” Veteran Peter Matwiy
