title: Characterizing Social and Recreational Programming in Assisted Living.
abstract: The objectives of this three-phased investigation were to (1) characterize existing recreational programming opportunities for tenants residing in assisted living (AL) and (2) gather perceptions on factors influencing activity program planning and delivery. Using an integrated knowledge translation framework during a one-year collaboration, we targeted 51 publicly funded AL sites from two health authorities in British Columbia. We conducted an activity calendar review, staff survey, and interactive symposia to identify factors that enabled or restricted recreational programming. From the information obtained, we determined that all AL sites delivered recreational programming. Although exercise and physical activity opportunities were perceived as having high importance, most activities were social. Staff reported confidence in delivering this type of programming and believed it met the holistic needs of tenants, including their mental well-being, and fostered a sense of community. Future avenues for increasing physical activity of AL tenants should address individual, site, and organizational characteristics.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Hip Health and Mobility.
authors.forename: Heather M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Hanson
authors.affiliation: Centre for Hip Health and Mobility.
authors.forename: Christiane A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Hoppmann
authors.affiliation: Vancouver Coastal Health Authority.
authors.forename: Karen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Condon
authors.affiliation: Fraser Health Authority.
authors.forename: Jane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Davis
authors.affiliation: Fraser Health Authority.
authors.forename: Fabio
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Feldman
authors.affiliation: Vancouver Coastal Health Authority.
authors.forename: Mavis
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Friesen
authors.affiliation: Fraser Health Authority.
authors.forename: Pet Ming
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Leung
authors.affiliation: Centre for Hip Health and Mobility.
authors.forename: Angela D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: White
authors.affiliation: Centre for Hip Health and Mobility.
authors.forename: Joanie
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Sims-Gould
authors.affiliation: Centre for Hip Health and Mobility.
authors.forename: Maureen C
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Ashe
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D040561:Assisted Living Facilities; D006801:Humans; D011998:Recreation; D058992:Social Participation; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires