Objective: The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of leisure resources on leisure life satisfaction and happiness according to the types of leisure companions, with a focus on individuals aged 50 and older. By segmenting the elderly population, this study seeks to identify how different types of leisure companions influence their leisure experiences.
Background: As society approaches a super-aged stage, it is essential to consider how older adults will spend their remaining years. The characteristics of post-baby boom, baby boom, and senior generations differ, which may influence their choice of leisure companions, leisure resources, leisure life satisfaction, and overall happiness. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct research that clarifies the impact of leisure companions on leisure life satisfaction and happiness among older generations. This study aims to examine the leisure activities of elderly individuals based on the types of leisure companions by utilizing nationally approved statistical data.
Method: This study utilized data from The National Survey on Leisure Activities (2023) to statistically analyze the effects of leisure resources on leisure life satisfaction and happiness across different generational cohorts, specifically the Post-Baby Boom, Baby Boom, and Senior generations. Leisure companion types were categorized into three groups: self-companionship, companionship with family and acquaintances, and companionship involving social interactions.
Results: The analysis revealed that while leisure life satisfaction was similar for both groups under and over 50 years old, differences emerged in their levels of happiness. In the over-50 group, those who engaged in social leisure activities reported higher leisure life satisfaction and happiness compared to other types. The post-baby boom generation's economic stability and active social relationships positively influenced their happiness, whereas the senior generation, despite having more leisure time, did not show significantly higher satisfaction. In the self-accompanied type, social health had the greatest impact on both leisure life satisfaction and happiness. For the family and friends-accompanied type, the physical space for leisure was a significant factor in determining happiness. In the social leisure group, social health positively affected happiness, while leisure time had a negative effect.
Conclusion: This study analyzed the relationships between leisure resources, leisure life satisfaction, and happiness among the elderly, categorized by types of leisure companions, and highlighted differences between groups. Based on the findings, the study suggests that, depending on the characteristics of the elderly in each leisure companion type, there is a need for policies that provide accessible leisure facilities and spaces, and strengthen social connections to enhance the leisure satisfaction and happiness of older adults.
Application: The results of this study are expected to make an academic contribution by providing foundational data on the leisure activities of the elderly based on their leisure companion types. By analyzing the relationships between leisure resources, leisure life satisfaction, and happiness, and identifying differences between groups, this study offers valuable insights into the leisure patterns of older adults categorized by their companion types.