Leisure in Later Life According to Webster’s dictionary, the definition of leisure is:  Freedom from occupation or business; vacant time; time free from employment. Freedomfromoccupationorbusinessvacanttime freefromemployment  Time at one's command, free from engagement; convenient opportunity; hence, convenience; ease Timeatonescommandfreefromengagementconvenientopportunityhenceconvenienceease What I like to do in my leisure time now What I think I’ll do with leisure later

What factors will you need to consider? –Financial situation – Will you have the financial resources to be able to afford to do the leisure activities you desire? –Employment status – When do you plan to retire? Will you be able to do so? Will you retire completely form the workforce or will you need to continue with a second or a part time career? –Health status – Will you have health problems that limit your physical or cognitive abilities? –Family commitments – Will you become a caregiver for grandchildren, a sibling or a spouse?

Leisure can mean more time for intergenerational relationships

Leisure can mean going back to work The AARP survey reported that in 1998, grandparents spent “a median of $489 a year on clothes, books, toys and other items …74% purchased clothing and 60% bought books.” Which of the activities in the chart showing grandparents and grandkids involve spending extra money? _______________ _______________ _______________ Where do you think that money comes from? Savings____Pension ____Social Security ___Work ____Other____ Who do you think is more likely to work after age 55, men or women? Why ?

Leisure: a new concept, often linked to retirement Since 1900 the average life expectancy for Americans has risen by almost 30 years. This increased life span has affected time spent in education, employment, retirement and leisure activities. Why do you think we have only begun to think about leisure and the older adult in recent years? Think about the events that may occur through a person’s life e.g. school, college, marriage, child rearing, employment and retirement. How might leisure patterns change or fluctuate during these events.

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