Older people’s experiences of visiting social day centres: The importance of doing and being for health and well-being

Background Social day centres can support active and healthy ageing amongst older people. However, little is known regarding the importance of social day centres. Aims/Objectives The aim of this study was to explore how older people visiting social day centres perceive the day centres' social influence on their health and well-being. Material and methods Twenty older persons attending social day centres on a regular basis were interviewed regarding activities at the day centre and their importance for active and healthy ageing. The data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results The social day centres were described as arenas to provide a structure (and something to do) in the visitor's everyday life. By attending a day centre, the participants created a social context with other visitors. Staff acted as facilitators for visitors, helping them to interact with other visitors and to experience the feeling of being needed by others. Conclusions The findings suggest that social day centres are important arenas for creating a sense of context and belongingness amongst older people. Significance This study provides knowledge on how doing and being contribute to healthy and active ageing.