Leisure Possibilities of Adults Experiencing Poverty: A Community-Based Participatory Study

Abstract

<b>Background.</b> Poverty disproportionally affects persons with disabilities, elderly individuals and racialized groups. Leisure, play and rest are not prioritized in either services for or research with people living in poverty. <b>Purpose.</b> This study aims to examine the facilitators and barriers to participation in meaningful leisure activities for adults living in poverty. <b>Method.</b> We used community-based participatory research and art-based elicitation strategies with 39 service users at a food security organization. <b>Findings.</b> Individuals experiencing poverty value and engage in a variety of free and affordable leisure activities, but they are not afforded the necessary leisure opportunities, accommodations and supports as the general population. We co-created a map of local leisure resources to foster collective capacity in leisure planning, and to support organizations working with this population. <b>Implications.</b> Occupational therapists can work alongside members of underserved communities to uncover and address the systemic and local contextual barriers to engagement in leisure activities.