Social and Physical Activity Participation Among Older Adults With Disability: The Interplay of Senior Housing and Perceived Social Cohesion

Abstract

Residential environments are critical factors influencing activity participation among older adults with disabilities. We examined whether living in senior housing (i.e., retirement communities or independent living) is associated with participation in social and physical activities and whether this association varies by perceived social cohesion. Data came from 3317 respondents in the 2019 National Health and Aging Trends Study who reported difficulty with self-care, mobility, or household tasks. Weighted logistic regression models showed that senior housing residents were more likely to participate in organized social events (OR = 1.45, p = .023) and physical activities (OR = 1.84, p = .001) than traditional housing residents, with no significant differences in volunteering or going out for enjoyment. Senior housing residents were more likely to participate in organized social events when they perceived higher social cohesion (OR = 2.69, p = .002). Findings highlight that senior housing may support activity engagement among older adults with disabilities, with social cohesion further facilitating participation in organized events.