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This cross-sectional study investigates the behaviors and recreational needs of elderly individuals in the lower central region of Thailand. A total of 5,600 elderly participants engaged in recreational activities were surveyed using questionnaires, with data analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings indicate a majority of female participants (63.66%), primarily aged between 60 to 69 years (61.98%), with elementary level education (48.41%), and predominantly unemployed (74.21%). Sports games and exercise activities were the most commonly participated in (34.0%), with a preference for such activities (30.9%) and high satisfaction levels (38.9%). Main challenges encountered included insufficient equipment and facilities (27.7%), while health benefits were the primary motivation for participation (18.59%). Information about recreational activities was mainly obtained through senior citizens clubs (37.8%), and participants typically engaged with friends (37.2%) during evening sessions (43.9%), with a frequency of 2-3 times per week (38.2%) for durations of 30 minutes to 1 hour per session (48.2%). The overall need for recreational activities among the elderly was moderate (mean = 3.39, SD = 1.068), with highest demand observed for tourism excursions (mean = 3.69, SD = 0.962), sports games and physical activities (mean = 3.61, SD = 1.217), and music and singing (mean = 3.52, SD = 1.194). Substantial demand was identified across all aspects of organizing activities, with the highest need reported for venues and facilities (mean = 4.04, SD = 0.741), followed by publication (mean = 3.95, SD = 0.741) and personnel (mean = 3.94, SD = 0.756).
Panriansaen et al. (Sat,) studied this question.