Occupation’s Role in Inclusion of Spanish-Speaking Older Adults in a Senior Center

Abstract

Occupation-based literature has not explored the specific community-level occupational processes that support inclusion or exclusion of Latine older adults in senior centers. This study examined occupation at the community level and its role in the inclusion or exclusion of older adult Spanish speakers in a senior center community. In addition, it sought to examine potential roles for occupational therapy practice in this realm. A 6-month ethnographic study used interviews, observations, document review, group mapping activities, and collaborative analysis to explore occupation of a senior center as the community and staff welcomed older adult Spanish speakers. Being culturally proactive, considering values and interests, offering regular activities, and cross-group doing together encouraged cohesion and communal habits of inclusion. These tailored modes of community occupation benefit Spanish-speaking older adults. Occupational therapy practitioners have opportunities to utilize tailored community occupations to support community inclusion and cohesion for this population.