“I feel like I’m drawing strength from it”: Lived Experiences of Filipino Elderly Participating in Craft-Making

• Published in: Qualitative report Vol. 22; no. 10; pp. 2742 - 2754
• Main Authors: Cajayon, Sharon, Macabasag, Romeo Luis, Limchanco, Norilyn, Umali, Vanessa, Blas, Ellayza, Angulo, Michelle, Breguera, Cristine Joy, De Guzman, Nikka Angela, Malapi, Sheila, Quibote, Emmalyn
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Fort Lauderdale Nova Southeastern University, Inc 01-10-2017; The Qualitative Report
• Subjects: Aged; Aging; Confidentiality; Data Analysis; Data Collection; Ethics; Gerontology; Group Activities; Handicraft; Health services; Interviews; Leisure; Leisure Time; Nursing; Occupational therapy; Older Adults; Older people; Participation; Phenomenology; Physical Disabilities; Psychiatry; Psychological aspects; Qualitative research; Researchers; Sampling; Self Actualization; Semi Structured Interviews; Social aspects; Southeast Asian cultural groups; Studies; Teaching Methods; Theory; Transcripts (Written Records); Well Being; Philippines
• ISSN: 1052-0147; 2160-3715
• DOI: 10.46743/2160-3715/2017.3000

In this phenomenological study, we offer an insightful understanding of the lived experiences of seven (7) Filipino elderly participating in craft-making. We purposively selected the key informants from a municipality in the province of Bulacan, Philippines. The transcribed data gathered through a semi-structured in-depth interview was analyzed using Colaizzi’s approach. Six themes describing the lived experiences emerged: “Fostering friendship,” “Flourishing health,” “Furthering service,” “Facing aging with acceptance,” “Finding felicity and self-fulfillment,” “Feelings of belongingness and security.” Just like the sun, the elderly’s participation in craft-making serves as a nourishment for them. This exploration speaks to understanding the potential of craft-making as a leisure activity for elderly.