Assistive Technology
for Veterans
Rediscover Joy: The Power of Leisure for Veterans’ Well-Being
Why Veterans Should Embrace Leisure Activities
Engaging in leisure activities isn’t just about passing the time—it’s about discovering what brings you joy, enhances your well-being, and supports your independence. For veterans, leisure can be a powerful tool to reconnect with interests, build new skills, and find relaxation and purpose outside daily responsibilities. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor activities, creative arts, fitness, or social groups, there’s something out there that can enrich your life.
Finding the Right Fit for You
Leisure is a personal journey, and there’s no “one-size-fits-all” activity. It’s about exploring what suits your preferences, whether it’s the calm of a fishing trip, the creativity of an art class, or the social connections found in a book club. Each veteran has unique interests and abilities, so take time to try different activities until you find what feels right for you.
The Benefits of Leisure for Quality of Life and Independence
Participating in activities you enjoy improves more than just your mood. It enhances your quality of life by providing mental, emotional, and physical benefits. Leisure activities can help you stay active, reduce stress, strengthen your community connections, and support your functional independence. As you develop new interests or hobbies, you’ll find they can also boost confidence and foster resilience in everyday life.
​
Start Your Journey Today
If you’re ready to explore new leisure activities, take the first step by checking out available programs, connecting with local veterans’ groups, or trying something you’ve always wanted to do. Embracing leisure isn’t just fun—it’s a meaningful investment in yourself and your well-being.
VA National Veterans Sports Programs and Special Events
The Department of Veterans Affairs offers various sports and recreation programs, including adaptive sports, to promote physical health and camaraderie among veterans.
Outward Bound for Veterans
Provides wilderness expeditions that help veterans readjust to civilian life through challenging outdoor adventures, fostering teamwork and self-discovery.
​​​
Grace After Fire's Annual Spring Retreat
Hosts a free retreat for women veterans in the spring at a ranch near Abilene, Texas, offering activities and support in a serene environment.
​​​
Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Programs
Offers a wide range of leisure and support programs for service members, veterans, and their families, including recreation programs, youth activities, golf, and bowling.
​​​​​
​
Recreation and Creative Arts Therapy
The VA provides recreation and creative arts therapy services, including art, music, dance, and drama therapies, to enhance veterans' quality of life.
​​​
Outdoors For Our Heroes
Offers burden-free outdoor adventures, such as hunting and fishing trips, tailored to service-connected disabled veterans, promoting mental health and confidence.
​
​
Wounded Warrior Project's Project Odyssey
An adventure-based learning program that provides veterans with opportunities to engage in group activities and psychoeducational sessions, fostering mental health and resilience.
​
These programs provide veterans with diverse opportunities to engage in leisure activities that can enhance their physical health, mental well-being, and social connections.
​
Do you know of a program not listed here and want to share? Be sure to reach out below and fill out the survey!
