Exploring Opportunities for Participation in Activities Among Older Japanese Canadians: Insights from the Activity Card Sort and Qualitative Inquiry

Abstract

Background: Understanding participation in activities in older adults is essential for promoting health, independence, and aging in place. Yet, research on ethnic minority populations, including Japanese Canadians, remains limited despite their unique cultural and historical contexts. Older Japanese Canadians face barriers to accessing culturally sensitive programs and services, which may restrict meaningful participation in activities and increase the risk of social isolation. Aim: This thesis examines participation in activities among older Japanese Canadians through two objectives: (1) to identify current, reduced, and discontinued activities among older Japanese Canadians, and (2) to explore the strengths and limitations of formal programs supporting participation in activities for older Japanese Canadians. Methods: This thesis included two studies: 1) A cross-sectional study with 29 older Japanese Canadians using the Activity Card Sort (ACS) 2nd Edition and a culturally adapted version (ACS-JPN); 2) A qualitative study using a community-based participatory approach to explore experiences of participation in activities supported by formal programs. Data collection included photovoice, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups with 11 tenants, staff, and family caregivers. Thematic analysis identified recurring patterns across community member perspectives. Results: In Study 1, participants demonstrated high engagement in social, leisure, and instrumental activities. The ACS-JPN captured eight additional culturally relevant activities, underscoring the importance of culturally tailored assessments. In Study 2, interrelated themes highlighted the importance of belonging, autonomy, and cultural continuity while supporting activity engagement despite physical, cognitive, and environmental challenges. Conclusions: Together, the findings demonstrate that culturally supportive environments and co-designed programs play a vital role in sustaining meaningful activity among older Japanese Canadians. This work contributes to gerontology, occupational science, and aging policy by emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive assessments and interventions that promote autonomy, well-being, and engagement in diverse aging communities.