Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
4-25-2025
Keywords
activity engagement, aging process, cognitive impairment, social engagement
Disciplines
Developmental Psychology
Abstract
Many studies in the past few decades have examined how participation in leisure activities, such as playing a musical instrument, gardening, and reading the newspaper, can positively influence the aging process. For instance, studies have found an association between leisure activities and a reduced risk of amnestic mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and/or Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to positive cognitive outcomes, leisure activities also have been associated with a variety of other benefits, such as improved quality of life, mental health, life satisfaction, self-reports of happiness, and overall well-being. This entry provides a brief overview of the definition of leisure activities, theories for why they are useful especially in old age, and limits of leisure activity research.
Recommended Citation
Wu, Rachel, "Leisure Activities" (2025). Essays in Developmental Psychology. 106.
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/edp/106