A Study on the Effect that Leisure Programs on Depression and Self-esteem in Elderly Women in Rural Areas

여가활동프로그램이 농촌여성노인의 우울과 자아존중감에 미치는 효과

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of leisure programs over 8 weeks on elderly women 60 and over who lived in a rural area. Did the program affect feelings of depression and self-esteem? Method: The leisure programs in this study included rhythm gymnastics for elderly women, recreation, balloon art, paper folding, viewing movies, shuttle cock game, exhibition and evaluation activity. As a Quasi-Experimental study, the design of this study was a Nonequivalent Control Group Pretest-Posttest Design. Results: It was shown that leisure programs for elderly women for 8 weeks, consisting of rhythm gymnastics, self-introduction, hobby activities and recreation can reduce depression and enhance the feeling of self-esteem in elderly women in the rural area. Conclusion: It is concluded that public health centers in rural areas should conduct leisure programs during the farmers' slack season, and that the community halls for elders can contribute to improving the life quality of elderly women by being more affirmative and positive if they develop as healthy and active cultural centers where elderly women will want to come and participate.