How women negotiate the aging process through participation in outdoor adventure activities

C. Yvette Wharton

    Research output: Contribution to conferencePaper

    Abstract

    This small study sought to examine the motivations women give for belonging to an outdoor adventure group. As part of this, how the women are negotiating the ageing process was also examined. Sixteen women aged 38-63 (average age 54 years) were individually interviewed with the purpose of exploring their perceptions, values, motivations, and the beliefs they attach to their participation. Findings highlight the women's belief that participation delays the ageing process, helps maintain physical ability, and offers social support from other group members. In addition pride, satisfaction, and pleasure were expressed in the belief that they challenged the cultural norms and expectations of older women. The activities were also seen as a leisure highlight for those who were retired. Whilst delaying the ageing process they also highlighted that they thought about a time in the future when they will not be able to continue to participate. The study highlights that more adventurous activities can be undertaken by by women in middle age. This may also suggest that more needs to be done to promote diverse adventurous activities to women.
    Original languageEnglish
    Publication statusPublished - 5 Nov 2015
    EventAging and Society- Fifth Interdisciplinary Conference - The Catholic University of America, Washington DC, United States
    Duration: 5 Nov 20156 Nov 2015

    Conference

    ConferenceAging and Society- Fifth Interdisciplinary Conference
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CityWashington DC
    Period5/11/156/11/15

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