Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

4-25-2025

Keywords

activity engagement, aging process, Alzheimer’s disease, amnestic mild cognitive impairment, benefits, brief overview, cognitive impairment, cognitive outcomes, decades, definition of leisure, dementia, entry, gardening, life satisfaction, limits of leisure activity research, limits of research, mental health, musical instrument, old age, past studies, playing an instrument, positive influence, quality of life, reading the newspaper, reduced risk, self-reports of happiness, social engagement, useful theories, well-being

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.

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