Transitioning a Living-Center: Resident Ability and Preference in Activity Programming

Abstract

Gerontologists have noted the importance of physical fitness (McPhee, et al., 2004), socialization (Lang & Baltes, 1997), and cognitive maintenance (McDougall, 2000) to successful aging. Due to this, Assisted-Living Facility (ALF) Activity Departments serve an essential role in residents' lives, encouraging engagement and aiming to improve life satisfaction. Willowtree is an independent-living facility planning to transition into an ALF. This study sought to discover the existence of a relationship between Willowtree residents' activities of daily living/instrumental activities of daily living (ADL/IADL) functionality and their enjoyment levels with current activity programming. Residents' preferences with activity type, time of day, frequency, and duration were also explored. The sample consisted of 54 participants, 55-100 years of age, who were residents of Willowtree. Findings indicated that both ability level and personal preference influence participation in Willowtree's discretionary activity programming. Recommendations for activity programming and staff were discussed, as were the limitations of the study.