Older people’s experiences of visiting social day centres: The importance of doing and being for health and well-being

Abstract

Background: Social day centres can support active and healthy ageing amongst older people. However, little is known regarding the importance of social day centres. Aims/Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore how older people visiting social day centres perceive the day centres’ social influence on their health and well-being. Material and methods: Twenty older persons attending social day centres on a regular basis were interviewed regarding activities at the day centre and their importance for active and healthy ageing. The data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The social day centres were described as arenas to provide a structure (and something to do) in the visitor’s everyday life. By attending a day centre, the participants created a social context with other visitors. Staff acted as facilitators for visitors, helping them to interact with other visitors and to experience the feeling of being needed by others. Conclusions: The findings suggest that social day centres are important arenas for creating a sense of context and belongingness amongst older people. Significance: This study provides knowledge on how doing and being contribute to healthy and active ageing.