Activities in day care centres for the elderly

Abstract

The continual participation in the community is a significant aspect in the life of elderly persons, as it enables them to enjoy a life of self-fulfilment and achievement, while feeling that they are integrated in society to which they have contributed for lengthy years. The main aim of the day care centre, apart from social activities, is to encourage the elderly persons engage in balanced pursuits which include the physical, educational and creative activities. However, elderly persons should be encouraged to participate in the decision-making process of planning and implementing various activities at the day care centre. This study evaluates the perceptions of fifteen elderly persons participating in activities organised at a day care centre in a locality in the island of Gozo, with the purpose of exploring the beneficial effect on their life. A descriptive exploratory design was used in which both qualitative and quantitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews. The interviews were later transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis, which revealed several themes. Findings demonstrate that all elderly persons cherish the activities offered by the day care centre. However, it has been discovered that not all elderly persons are experiencing the full benefit of this day care centre. Although social and recreational events are extremely important, findings suggest that elderly persons wish that certain activities mainly crafts, physical activities, health services and intergenerational activities are given more attention. Hence, this would affect the older adults holistically. As a result, several recommendations for practice and suggestions for further research have been proposed.