Belonging and Meaning for Older Adults in Park and Recreation: A Photovoice Project

Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Organization Development & Change (D.O.D.C.)

Department

Organization Development

First Advisor

Deborah O'Neil (Committee Chair)

Second Advisor

Samuel McAbee (Other)

Third Advisor

Margaret Hopkins (Committee Member)

Fourth Advisor

Margaret Brooks (Committee Member)

Abstract

The rise in older adults in the population, specifically in Ohio has made the issue of responsive municipal services for this age group a critical consideration for local public policymakers. Using the participatory action research method photovoice, this study examined what are the elements related to belonging and inclusion for older adults in a municipal park and recreation community center. The participant group was homogenously comprised of nine retired, professional women, leading to findings related specifically to this population subset. Among the key findings are that women who have retired from professional careers may experience both identity congruence and identity crises. Park and recreation programming that considers the unique experiences and ongoing identity needs of the population will serve this demographic more robustly than if all older adults are considered as having similar programming needs. This study’s results suggest a need for further research into how municipal park and recreation departments can best serve this group of older adults, and how to encourage and leverage the advocacy, skills, and contributions of professional women as they participate in park and recreation programs in their retirement years.

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS