Leisure Patterns and Attitudes of the Rural Elderly

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to ascertain the leisure practices and attitudes of a population of rural, midwestern elderly. Trained interviewers surveyed 3097 subjects in their homes. Data were analyzed at individual and activity cluster levels. Individual activity participation rates portrayed present subjects as regular gar deners, walkers, and media users. They also seemed to be fairly regular participants in games of chance. Those 75 years of age or older participated less than subjects 65-74 years old. Some sex-related patterns emerged; women were more apt to participate in home-centered activities, men more likely to report outdoor recreation pursuits. Analysis of activity clusters reflected remarkably high involvement by subjects. Taken together, individual and activity cluster analyses indicated that subjects were more active in leisure than has been suggested in past studies and that their leisure attitudes were generally positive.