CTRS’ Use of Knowledge Competencies in Job Tasks with Senior Population

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the association between the knowledge competencies and the job tasks among Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) who are working with the senior population in the State of California. Research design, data, and methodology: A descriptive research design was used in this research; a survey was administered to CTRS members who work with the senior population in California. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze the descriptive statistical data among the 22 survey questions. Results: The results suggest that CTRS are using the principle of group interaction, leadership, and safety but strongly disagree in using laissez faire type leadership while working with seniors. Also, CTRS are offering a diverse selection of recreation and leisure activities to the senior population especially in physical activities and uses appropriate program design by having specific goals and objectives in each therapeutic activity with seniors. Lastly, higher education therapeutic recreation internship is important in enhancing the CTRS ability to work with the senior population. Conclusions: Results from this study strongly suggest that there may be an association between the knowledge competencies and the job tasks among CTRS who are working in the senior population with exception of using laissez faire leadership skills while working with seniors.