Abstract
Playing cards is familiar to all age groups worldwide. There is limited literature comparing gender differences in motivational factors in social card games among older adults. Furthermore, the understanding of how social play and card games affect well-being and loneliness among older adults remains limited. Hence, this qualitative study examines the experiences of social play of 48 older adults, focusing on feelings of loneliness and well-being. The results show the positive effects of social play on the well-being of older adults and their perceived loneliness. This study explores the effects of social play on the well-being and experiences of loneliness among older adults who participate in traditional card game clubs. Utilizing the Uses and Gratifications Theory, the research investigates the underlying motivations for playing cards in social settings and examines gender-specific differences in these motivations. Data were collected through semi-structured surveys from 48 older adult card club players across Finland. The findings indicate that social play positively affects the well-being and reduces feelings of loneliness among older adults. Participants reported slight improvements in hand-eye coordination, memory, reaction rate, concentration, and perception. The study also reveals distinct motivational factors between genders, with male participants motivated by communality and competitiveness, while female participants are driven by brain exercise, fun, and social reinforcement. The results highlight the importance of social interaction and regularity in weekly activities for enhancing the well-being of older adults.
Presenters
Mirkka ForssellUniversity Teacher, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences and Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Etelä-Suomen lääni, Finland
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Social and Cultural Perspectives on Aging
KEYWORDS
Older adults, Social play, Playing cards, Loneliness, Wellbeing, Aging
