Older Adult Happiness:

Abstract

Activity theory suggests that happiness in later years is contingent upon high levels of activity to replace roles lost in the aging process. The number of activities, however, may be less important than the meaning of activities and the level of commitment on the part of the participating older adult. In an examination of this concept, 120 adults 55 years of age and older were interviewed to determine the effects of activity repertoire and/or commitment upon their life happiness. Results indicate that happiness was strongly related to intesity of commitment in small number of activities. Happiness was not strongly related to the number of activities pursues. Further, activities with work-like qualities were more satisfying than any other activities.