| The purpose of this study was to compare the leisure lifestyles of three developmentally disabled and three non-disabled older adults. Issues such as leisure needs and interests as well as the opportunities and barriers experienced by these participants were examined.; This inductive, qualitative, exploratory study examined life satisfaction in relation to these people's life experiences. As well, the results of this study aid in our understanding of the meaning of leisure through the participants' experiences and perceptions.; This study found that the two groups had differing leisure lifestyles. The differences were found to be influenced by the lack of social networks and lack of choice that the developmentally disabled older adults experience in their leisure.; Recommendations resulting from this study include suggestions to encourage linking the developmentally disabled older adults with the community through 'bridge-building' efforts. As well, leisure education and the teaching of decision-making skills to the developmentally disabled adults would help to enrich their leisure lifestyles. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
