Recreation
Social interaction
Recreation refers to participation in hobbies or other activities of interest. There are two types of recreational activities:
- active - physical activities such as baseball, basketball, volleyball, swimming, aerobics, jogging
- passive - sedentary activities such as reading, computer or board games, television.
These activities can either be commercial (theme parks, for-profit clubs, sporting events) or non-commercial (senior centers, local parks and recreation centers).
"Older adults have the right to participate in and contribute
to meaningful activity within the widest range of civic, cultural, education and
training, and recreational opportunities."
-Older Americans Act
In many cases, people engage in recreational activities such as volunteerism, life-long learning, or physical activities simply for the social benefits. Recreation is also one of several factors affecting wellness in older adults, and it plays a positive role in quality of life and life satisfaction. Because recreational activities include all activities of personal interest, recreation overlaps with other Aging Texas Well topics including social engagement, volunteerism, physical health, physical activities, mental health, and education.
Updated: November 2, 2007
