Objectives: Elderly is a sensitive period and quality of life in the elderly is of great importance that should not be ignored. The purpose of this study was to compare 3 groups of active, passive, and ecotourist old age people on their mental health and happiness. The study participants live in Illam City, Iran.
Methods & Materials: By multi-stage sampling method, 514 participants, over 60 years old and cognitively intact (152 active, 229 passive, and 133 ecotourist individuals), were selected to participate in the study. The data-gathering tool consisted of a 2-part questionnaire: short form of mental health (GHQ-28) and Oxford happiness inventory (OHI) which used to measure mental health and happiness, respectively. Analyses was based on 1-way ANOVA, and post-hoc Tukey test.
Results: Findings showed that there were significant differences between 3 groups with regard to mental health, and only between ecotourist and others with regard to happiness. Regarding the results, the status of mental health and happiness in ecotourist elderly was better than active and nonactive ones.
Conclusion: Doing exercise and participating in recreational activities such as hiking, walking, mountaineering with friends or family members are the best activities for the elderly people resulting in the improvement and reinforcement of their mental health and happiness.