The Census Bureau indicates that by the year 2030, 70 million Americans will be aged 65 or older. Approximately five to seven million of these older adults will be living in subsidized public housing (Fowles, 1999). Limited research has included the variables of life satisfaction, leisure satisfaction, and leisure participation among publicly housed older adults. Therefore, the present study attempted to examine the differences between the selected socio-demographic variables of gender, race, and self-perceived health in relation to the variables of life satisfaction, leisure satisfaction, and leisure participation for publicly housed older adults. Data were collected from the older adults, ages 55 and older, residing in public housing through the Housing Authority in Huntington, West Virginia. A face-to-face survey method was used. The overall response rate was 50.25% (N=201). The data were analyzed by using descriptive analyses and factorial analyses through the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS). The results showed that participants who reported °§a better than average health status°¨ scored higher on all three scales: life satisfaction, leisure satisfaction and leisure participation. The null hypotheses were rejected (a=0.05). There were significant differences between the self-perceived health on the life satisfaction, leisure satisfaction, and leisure participation. These findings were supported by other studies (Baker & Martin, 1994; Fiatarone et al., 1995; Guinn, 1995; Kohrt et al., 1995; Krause, 1993; Lefrancois, et al., 1998; Rogers, 1999; and Yusuf et al., 1996). Self-perceived health was found to be a factor that influences leisure satisfaction, and leisure participation. However, significant differences were not found between the other socio-demographic variables (gender and race) on the life satisfaction, leisure satisfaction, and leisure participation. In conclusion, self-perceived health influenced life satisfaction, leisure satisfaction, and leisure participation but not for race and gender in this population. The findings of this study provided valuable information for health care professionals, gerontologists, mental health workers, social workers and leisure professionals. The physical differences and perceived health appear to be manifested in terms of meaningful recreational and social activities. Planned recreational activities can do much to promote healthy aging and the maintenance of social involvement. However, the greatest challenge is not only to educate people that recreational activities are good for them, but also to educate them about ways that they can become physically active. Finally, partnerships among different professions will be required to promote a sense of well-being among older adults. Keyword(s): community-based programs, older adult/aging issues