Scheduled for Leisure and Recreation Free Communications, Saturday, April 5, 2003, 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM, Convention Center: 304


The Effect of Sociodemographic Variables on the Leisure Satisfaction and Leisure Participation of Older Adults

Jennifer Y. Mak1, Sandra D. Parker1 and Barbara J. Boley2, (1)Marshall University, Huntington, WV, (2)University of Rio Grande, Rio Grande, OH

The purpose of this study is to examine the differences between the selected socio-demographic variables of gender, marital status, and self-perceived health in relation to the variables of leisure satisfaction and leisure participation for older adults. Data were collected from 303 older adults, ages 55 and older, residing in Huntington, West Virginia. The Leisure Satisfaction Scale and the Modified Leisure Activity Blank were the instruments used to measure the variables. The data were analyzed by using descriptive analyses and factorial analyses. Fifty-two percent of the participants were between the ages of 55-74 and 71 percent were female. Results showed no gender and marital status differences in leisure satisfaction, but self-perceived health was statically significant [ F=7.173, p<.05 ]. Results also showed no gender differences in leisure participation, but marital status [ F=4.979, p<.05 ] and self-perceived health were statically significant [ F=7.271, p<.05 ]. Older adults reported to have “better than average” health status scored higher in leisure satisfaction (M=94.3) and leisure participation (M=24.7). On the other hands, older adults reported to have “worse than average” health status scored lower in leisure satisfaction (M=76.1) and leisure participation (M=20.7). Regards to marital status, married couple (M=24.5) scored higher than widowed (M=21.8) or divorced, separated, single (M=22.1) in leisure participation. In conclusion, self-perceived health and marital status were found to be factors that influences leisure participation and self-perceived health was an important factor to influences leisure satisfaction. The findings were supported by other studies (Lefrancois, et al., 1998; Mak et al., 2002; Rogers, 1999; and Yusuf et al., 1996). The findings of this study provided valuable information for health care professions, gerontologists, and leisure professionals. Recreation specialist working with older adults should consider that their programs and services should include the components to promote healthy aging and the maintenance of social involvement.

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