Activity Preferences and Satisfaction Among Older Adults in a Veterans Administration Long-Term Care Facility

Activities can be a nonpharmacological intervention for depression in long-term care. To address the activity needs of men, 183 residents of a VA long-term care facility were surveyed about activity interests, past and present, and activity satisfaction. With a 30% return rate, residents reported 85% overall satisfaction with activities and identified television as the most preferred activity, past and present. Bingo, movies, and listening to music ranked high for current activities. Prayer, reading, and pets increased in popularity. Current satisfaction with flea markets, pool, and gardening decreased from prior levels of satisfaction. Model making and arts and crafts activities were rated poorly. Long-term care facilities may want to expand television-based activities for older men in ways that promote increased socialization and mental activity.