Citation

Sheppard CL, Myers AM, Hesjedahl S. Can. J. Aging 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Cambridge Press)

DOI

10.1017/S0714980823000120

PMID

37439086

Abstract

This study aimed to better understand the extent to which older adult centres are a focal point for recreation and social activities for their members. Travel diaries completed by 261 members of 12 older adult centres across Ontario provided comprehensive and real-time (24-hour) data over two consecutive weeks concerning time away from home, trip purposes, and modes of travel. The data showed that nearly one-third of their trips included a stop at their older adult centre. Three-quarters also went to other community venues over the study period, possibly to access amenities (e.g., pools) not available at their centre. Notwithstanding, their local older adult centre was still a focal point in out-of-home travel, particularly for potentially more vulnerable older adults, including those who were non-drivers, had less education, and felt lonelier. The diaries also substantiated the importance of time spent socializing with peers and staff at the centre, apart from formal program participation.

Language: en

Keywords

recreation; older adults; aging; centres pour personnes âgées; loisirs; older adult centres; personnes âgées; senior centres; vieillissement