Leisure Education

This article presents the concept of using leisure time as a potential coping resource for family caregivers of impaired older persons, that could be facilitated through a leisure education program within a caregiver support group. Included is a review of literature relevant to stresses of caregivlng, barriers to caregivers' leisure involvement, and rationale for a leisure education program within a family caregiver support group. It is suggested that leisure education programs be based on the Peterson and Gunn leisure education model which consist of four components: leisure awareness, leisure activity skills, leisure resources, and social skills. Each component is considered in relation to caregivers' situations. Reasons for caregivers' resistance to intervention and outreach techniques are also discussed.