Percepción del sentido de vida en adultos mayores que asisten a un centro de ocio en la ciudad de Quito

Abstract

This research seeks to explore how older adults between 65 and 80 years old, participating in a leisure program in the Metropolitan District of Quito, perceive the meaning of their lives between October 2025 and February 2026. This is all approached from a humanistic-existential perspective, where meaning is not fixed but rather something that is redefined as life progresses. A qualitative, non-experimental, and cross-sectional approach was chosen, focusing on life stories as the primary data collection tool. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore their personal experiences, the bonds that truly matter, the processes of giving new meaning to existence, and how they experience aging with vitality. The findings show that, at this stage of older adulthood, the meaning of life is anchored primarily in family relationships, social involvement, the renewed sense of purpose, and the independence they so highly value. Furthermore, these leisure centers emerge as true catalysts for redefining existence: they foster interaction with others, improve mood, break the daily monotony, and, moreover, build a sense of belonging that makes all the difference. Meaning in old age does not fade; quite the opposite, it transforms and can even be strengthened with active participation in community settings. These findings offer psychology an existential perspective that promotes dynamic aging, respecting dignity and fostering a profound understanding of older