The Relationship between Leisure Activities and Social Health of the Elderly in Iran

One effective strategy for enhancing the social health of the elderly is the development of leisure activities. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between leisure activities and social health among elderly residents of Tehran.

This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2018 on 413 elderly individuals aged 60 and above in Tehran. Cluster random sampling was employed from five districts of Tehran, maintaining the gender ratio. Data collection instruments included a demographic questionnaire, a 20-item Keyes Social Health Questionnaire, and a 44-item researcher-made Leisure Activities Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23, employing descriptive and analytical statistics, Spearman correlation coefficient, and multiple linear regression analysis.

Among the eight subdomains of leisure activities (recreation, sports, social interactions, rest, arts, cultural, media, and religious duties), the media category scored the highest mean (84.01%±23.6). The lowest mean score was related to the cultural activities category (21.6%±0.74). Women significantly participated less than men in recreation (P=0.025), sports (P=0.003), cultural (P=0.006), and media activities (P=0.008). With increasing age, elderly participation in recreation (P=0.000), sports (P=0.005), social interactions (P=0.008), and artistic activities (0.010) significantly decreased. The results of multiple linear regression analysis indicated that recreation category (B=0.057 and P=0.001) and religious duties (B=0.023 and P=0.043) had the strongest effects on social health.

Leisure activities, especially recreation and religious duties, are significantly linked to the social health of the elderly. Age-related decline and gender disparities in participation highlight the need for targeted planning to improve access and involvement, particularly for women and older seniors. Promoting such activities can effectively enhance their quality of life and social well-being.