Hospital de Clínicas promotes Summer Games for patients of the Medical Clinic
Recreational activities promote well-being, socialization, and comprehensive care for users
Fridays in July have taken on a new meaning for the patients of the Medical Clinic at the Gaspar Vianna Hospital de Clínicas (HC) in Belém. Inspired by the cultural atmosphere of the typical summer holidays in Pará, the professionals in the sector launched the "Summer Games of the Medical Clinic," featuring recreational activities that promote well-being, socialization, and comprehensive care for users.
The proposal arose from the observation of the long hospitalizations of patients who often face multiple comorbidities and, therefore, remain hospitalized for weeks or even months. To minimize the emotional impacts of hospitalization, the multidisciplinary team decided to bring the July atmosphere inside the unit.
"The idea was to bring a bit of the outside world into the hospital, recreating this summer environment, which is so symbolic for those living in Belém. In July, many are at the beaches, at parties, and our patients feel this contrast. So, we decided to offer moments of leisure, interaction, and lightness," explains the psychologist of the Medical Clinic, Tereza Cristina Rocha.
The program includes games such as bingo, dominoes, and cards, as well as music and dance. Patients are encouraged to participate in groups, creating bonds with other users and with the professionals in the sector. At the end of each activity, winners are awarded.
"They interact, have fun, and recognize each other. Many have been bedridden for a long time, and this provides a significant change in their routine," adds Tereza.
Emotional well-being and socialization — The action is also based on the therapeutic practices of occupational therapy, which values the positive effects of group activities for those undergoing long-term treatment. Occupational therapist Rainá Furtado emphasizes that the dynamics promote emotional and social gains.
"In addition to reducing the impacts of prolonged hospitalization, we work on skills such as attention, concentration, and socialization. Patients feel welcomed, remembered. Many report how much these moments change their day," states the professional.
The games are planned to include patients with reduced mobility as well. "Even those who are bedridden participate, coming in wheelchairs. Companions help, play for them when necessary, and everyone cheers together. It is, in fact, a collective experience," adds Rainá.
Among the participants, 70-year-old retiree João Quadros Braga was one of the most enthusiastic. Hospitalized since June 19 after a heart attack, he praised the initiative.
"It was very gratifying. In the hospital, we end up spending a lot of time lying down, isolated. These moments of leisure help us interact, to distract ourselves. I really like dominoes, and participating was a joy. The team deserves congratulations. This makes all the difference," said the patient, who lives in the Pedreira neighborhood.
Text: Kelly Barros - Ascom/HC
