Exploration of the content and structure of preferences for leisure activities of people receiving adult day services using concept mapping

Providing preferred leisure activities is important to support and empower people receiving adult day services, and enable them to age in place. This study – the first of its kind — explored the conceptual basis for the development of an instrument to assess preferences for leisure activities. Specifically, researchers asked: What are the content and structure of preferences for leisure activities of adult day service participants? Based on input from people receiving services at three adult day centers, and using a concept mapping methodology, the team developed a conceptualization that divides preferences for leisure activities into 12 clusters (most important: “Revel in memories and catch up on the news”; least important: “Keep fit and cheer others on in sports”). Findings can guide research and practice in preference assessment, programming and outcome evaluation in adult day services.