📖 ABSTRACT/OVERVIEW
Mental health among elderly persons in institutional care settings is a growing concern in Nigeria as urbanisation accelerates and traditional community-based care systems weaken. This study examines the effect of structured recreational activities on the mental health of elderly residents in three retirement homes in Lagos State, South West Nigeria. A quasi-experimental pre-test post-test design was employed, with 80 elderly residents aged 60 years and above randomly assigned to an experimental group receiving a 10-week structured recreational programme, and a control group receiving routine institutional activities. The recreational programme incorporated group games, light aerobics, music and dance therapy, and social interaction activities. Mental health status was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale and the Mini-Mental State Examination at baseline and post-intervention. Findings reveal statistically significant improvements in depression scores and cognitive function scores among the experimental group compared to the control group. Participants report higher subjective wellbeing, improved sleep quality, and increased social interaction following the programme. Older participants aged above 75 years demonstrate the greatest absolute improvement in depression scores. Recommendations include integrating structured recreational programming into standard care protocols at Nigerian retirement facilities, training care staff in recreational facilitation, and establishing partnerships with physical and health education professionals to design evidence-based elder recreational programmes. Keywords: recreational activities, mental health, elderly persons, retirement homes, Lagos State
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