Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Sonia Zimmerman

Keywords

Aged; Disabled Persons -- education; Leisure Activities; Travel

Abstract

Introduction: This scholarly project was conducted to explore the aspects of vacationing in older adults and how age-related changes seen within this population can impact decisions while traveling. The purpose of this project was to create a resource guide for older adults to help navigate the vacationing process.

Methodology: A literature review was conducted using various sources including: online databases, books on travel and vacationing, personal communication via informal interview, and through major travel corporation websites. Information from these sources was then compiled to create a resource guide for older adults.

Results: Information found within the literature review indicated that the older adult population has greater resources, time, and desire to travel. However, are also facing challenges due to age related changes, which impacts aspects of travel. As a result, a resource guide was created to assist the older adult population with travel.

Conclusions: Due to age-related changes, older adults may require additional information on travel prior to vacationing, including what to expect in regards to the process, environment, and accommodations. A resource guide will be beneficial for helping older adults plan their vacation.

Significance: Vacationing, as a leisure occupation, provides meaning and quality of life in older adults. It is important that older adults have the opportunity and access to participate in vacationing. In practice, occupational therapists can utilize information from this project to educate older adults, as well as provide them with this resource guide to ease the process of vacationing.

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