Seniors and outdoor recreation : a case study of campers
Date
1984
Authors
Caskey, Jennifer E. E.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This thesis examines the significance of outdoor recreation in the lives of older adults, and the impact of retirement and aging on recreation participation patterns.
The review of the literature on aging and recreation has focused on the major theories on aging and how they are utilised in interpreting recreation patterns. As no single theory can adequately accommodate all patterns of change induced by the aging process, this research has adopted the 'multidimensional-developmental perspective' (Wiseman, 1978) as a theoretical framework for the case study. This framework encompasses aspects of several of the various theories .
The objective of the case study was to provide descriptive information on the outdoor recreation participation patterns of the active elderly. The respondents selected were seniors aged 65 and over camping in Gordon Bay, Little Qualicum Falls, Rathtrevor Beach and Miracle Beach Provincial Parks. This study does not attempt to generalise the findings to a wider population.
Data on the range and frequency of the subject's recreation participation for the previous year was collected by interview. Particular attention was paid to the impact of retirement and aging on participation patterns. The nature of camping as a specific recreational activity for this group was investigated in terms of the respondents' group composition at the time of the survey, their motivations for camping, and the activities pursued while camping.
The data on activity participation for the preceding year was rank ordered according to percentage participating in each activity mentioned, and the frequency of this participation. Activities demonstrating both a high percentage participation rate and high frequency of involvement by the participants are walking, gardening and playing with children out of doors. Activities pursued on an infrequent basis by a significant number of respondents include fishing, picnicking and outdoor swimming. Other activities, such as hiking, bicycling and golf, are pursued regularly by a small proportion of the respondents.
Regarding change in participation patterns with retirement and aging, expansion in gardening, walking and camping is apparent; while constriction in activities of medium to high energy expenditure, such as swimming, hunting and tennis, can be observed. Both suppressed demand and constriction are examined in the context of factors that constrain the participant. 'Not enough free time ' is the most significant factor restricting participation in activities where an expansion is desired, while 'health problems' is the major reason given for recent constriction.
The motivating factors predisposing the respondent to camp are enjoyment of the experience, rest and relaxation, and social interaction. Activities pursued while camping range from relatively active to passive in nature, and reflect these motivations to some extent. The significance of camping to this Group of subjects is illustrated by the rate of expansion - 78% perceived an increase in the amount of time devoted to the activity in recent years.
The implication of these findings for future policy and research are discussed. It is recommended that attention focus on understanding constraints experienced by this age group, developing outdoor recreation programmes for those with impaired health or less energy, promoting camping as a suitable activity for the active elderly, encouraging social interaction in outdoor recreation, emphasising the role of recreation in pre-retirement seminars, and expanding the seniors' awareness of present outdoor recreation opportunities.
Description
Keywords
UN SDG 14: Life Below Water