MASTER'S DEGREE THESIS

"Off Your Rocker: Improving the Health and Psychological Well-being of the Older Citizens of Prince George's County, Maryland through a Year 'Round Program of Lifetime Sports and High-Risk Adventure Activities."

This was a research study and change project designed to improve the health and psychological well-being of the older citizens of Prince George's County, Maryland through a year 'round program of lifetime sports and high-risk adventure activities. A review of the literature confirmed that older people can benefit from exercise and sports participation. The literature attributed the problem to learned helplessness and a lack of programs, facilities and opportunities. Programs such as the Senior Olympics and the Super Senior Tennis Organization have shown that sedentary older persons can be encouraged to initiate and maintain high level wellness through sports participation. A needs assessment consisting of surveys of the target population and the key informants; focus groups; and pilot projects, among other research tools, revealed that income, educational levels, residence, and prior occupations are some causative factors. An analysis of the pre-existing data revealed that the older population is increasing, that the older population is generally sedentary, and that the older population is electing to remain in their own homes and communities, a phenomenon commonly referred to as "aging in place." A change project was designed and conducted to enhance the funtional capacity of aging individuals and their ability to manage activities of daily living as well as locus of control, health status and overall psychological well-being. The short term objectives of the project were to increase knowledge and awareness by 30% within a three month period. Evaluative findings confirmed this increase. Additionally, participants' self reports revealed an overall increase in health, outlook, and well-being. This suggests that more programs that challenge older persons both physically and mentally will be needed in the future.