Leisure Activities and Well-Being in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Rauer Amy, Stewart Meagan, Fiori Katherine, Marini Christina, Kanter Jeremy
Primary Institution: University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Adelphi University
Hypothesis
Are leisure activities with others more beneficial for older adults' well-being over time compared to leisure activities alone?
Conclusion
Engaging in leisure activities with others is more beneficial for older adults' well-being than leisure activities done alone.
Supporting Evidence
- Older adults were most likely to engage in leisure activities with romantic partners.
- Leisure with friends and family was the least common.
- More overall leisure engagement was linked to better well-being.
- Solitary leisure was associated with feeling less important.
Takeaway
Older adults feel happier and less lonely when they do fun things with friends or family instead of being alone.
Methodology
Participants reported on their leisure activities at three different times using a modified version of the Pittsburgh Enjoyable Activities Scale.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors affecting leisure engagement and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Participant Demographics
The sample consisted of older adults aged 50-91, with a majority being female, White, partnered, and retired.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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