ENGAGEMENT OR ENJOYMENT? ATTITUDES OF OLDER ADULTS IN GROUP LUNCH VERSUS. LIFELONG LEARNING PROGRAMS

Abstract

Abstract Purpose This study examines aging attitudes among older adults who participated in the neighborhood lunch (NLP) and lifelong learning (LLP) programs. Methods Older adults from an NLP and an LLP in the same county in Florida participated. An aging attitudes measurement originally developed by German researchers was used. Results A total of 193 older adults participated, 43% from NLP. The mean age was 73.2 (SD=7.78) years. Data showed that LLP older adults endorsed higher on “would like to have responsibilities,” “have a task,” “do unpaid volunteer work,” and “help others” (p<.001). NLP participants, on the other hand, endorsed higher on “no longer have to contribute to society,” “want to enjoy life,” and “finally want to rest and relax” (all p<.001). Exploratory factor analyses (EFAs) using principal component extraction methods and varimax rotation with Kaiser normalization showed a clear balanced 2-factor pattern, with total variance explained 60% (30% each). These two factors were consistent with the theory representing engagement versus enjoyment aging attitudes. Reliabilities of the two-factor scales were satisfactory, with Cronbach’s alpha of .764 (CITC ranged: .457 ~ .660) for the engagement scale (4-item) and.634 (CITC ranged: .379~.499) for the enjoyment scale (3-item). Discussion Current findings showed that LLP participants endorsed higher engagement, while NLP participants endorsed higher enjoyment towards aging. This tested aging attitudes scale consists of 7 items with two clear theory-consistent factors among community-dwelling older adults. Results can help researchers quickly assess aging attitudes of diverse groups of older adults for tailored program and service development.