Inclusion of older adults with mental retardation in leisure opportunities

Abstract

Leisure satisfaction is associated with life satisfaction for older Americans. For those with mental retardation, obtaining inclusive leisure opportunities can be impeded by changes in health and social status, limited access to the community, underdeveloped leisure skills, and the need for support to participate in leisure opportunities. These challenges can be overcome through support for inclusion in the varied leisure opportunities generally available for older adults. Making such support possible may require conversion of traditional resources, such as adult day programs. We described the transition of one program towards providing support for inclusive leisure and made recommendations for future practice and research.