Living Well with Arthritis: A Study of Engagement in Social Occupations and Successful Aging

This study examined engagement in social occupations and successful aging in a sample of older adults with arthritis. The study used a phenomenological qualitative research design in which interview data were used to examine the meaning of social occupation and successful aging experiences. Qualitative analysis revealed patterns of social occupations, successful aging, and well-being and function. The participants engaged in a variety of social occupations that stimulated the mind, enhanced physical and cognitive function, and promoted health. Social participation strengthened family bonds as well as fulfilled the need to be productive. Social occupations also helped to cope with arthritis symptoms and other life challenges. Social occupations were a vehicle for continual involvement in life and persistently high functioning. Dining with others, social routines, and involvement in community interest groups and religious and travel activities were sources for engagement. These findings suggest that for this sample participation in social occupations contributed to their successful aging by serving as a means for engagement with life and by promoting health and function.