Investigating the Status of Leisure Time among the Elderly in Isfahan City, Iran: A Qualitative Study

Document Type : Qualitative Review

Authors
Elham Nasiri 1
Elahe Karimi 2
Ali Ebrahimifar 2
Farzane Saberi 3
1 PhD Candidate, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran AND Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2 Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
3 Lecturer, Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
10.48305/jrrs.2024.42414.1081
Abstract
Introduction: An important aspect of caring for the elderly is enhancing their quality of life (QoL); consequently, improving their living conditions has become a common global concern. Given the multidimensional impact of leisure time on the QoL of older adults, the present study aimed to investigate the patterns of leisure engagement among the aging population in Isfahan City, Iran.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative study was carried out through content analysis approach. A total of 25 participants residing in Isfahan City were selected through purposive sampling with maximum variation. A theoretical approach was utilized, employing a sequential selection process until data saturation was achieved. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews and subsequently analyzed.
Results: The findings of this study culminated in five core themes that delineate the leisure experiences of older adults: 1) general patterns of leisure engagement, 2) barriers to leisure participation, 3) the impact of leisure on the lives of older adults, 4) the role of family support in facilitating leisure, and 5) strategies for enhancing leisure opportunities among the aging population.
Conclusion: According to the findings, leisure engagement significantly enhances the QoL among older adults by improving mood, vitality, self-confidence, and life satisfaction, ultimately contributing to better general health. Therefore, it is imperative for policymakers and health administrators to implement targeted strategies aimed at fostering improved leisure patterns and removing barriers to the useful and effective participation of the elderly in leisure activities.
Keywords
Aging
Leisure time
Qualitative study
Iran
Subjects
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Journal of Research in Rehabilitation Sciences
Volume 19, Issue 1
April 2023
Pages 172-180