The Impact of Occupational Participation in Hobby Activities on Social Frailty

Abstract

Social frailty (SF) involves reduced social participation, roles, and support, and it is associated with adverse health outcomes. However, the relationship between SF and occupational participation, particularly hobbies, remains underexplored. We examined the association between SF and occupational participation, particularly hobbies, among older adults. A cross-sectional survey of 1,000 older adults in Japan (mean age: 74.08 ± 5.48 years) was conducted online. Participants were classified as robust, pre-SF (PSF), or SF using Makizako’s five-item criteria. Occupational participation was assessed using the Self-Completed Occupational Performance Index. Hobby categories and their frequencies were also recorded. Occupational participation was lower in SF than in PSF and robust. Participation in productive activities was negatively associated with PSF and SF, while leisure activities and cultural and artistic hobbies were negatively associated with SF. Occupational therapy should emphasize occupational participation and hobby engagement to help older adults cope with social frailty.

Plain Language Summary

Staying Socially Active and Independent: How Hobbies Benefit Older Adults, According to a Study on Leisure and Meaningful Activities

As people age, they often face health issues and challenges in maintaining social connections. “Social frailty” is a term used when a person becomes less socially active or loses contact with their friends and community. This condition can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and depression, and may increase the risk of future health issues or the need for long-term nursing care. This study investigated whether engaging in meaningful leisure activities, specifically hobbies, could help prevent social frailty among older adults in Japan. We conducted an online survey of 1,000 people aged 65 years or older. The current results indicate that individuals experiencing social frailty were less likely to engage in leisure and productive activities compared to their healthier counterparts. Participation in cultural and artistic hobbies—such as music, painting, and crafts—was associated with lower odds of social frailty. Overall, this study suggests that engaging in fulfilling leisure activities, particularly hobbies, can help older adults maintain social participation and enhance their overall well-being, potentially delaying or preventing the need for long-term care. Community-based programs that encourage participation in hobbies may promote healthy aging.