Successful aging and older adults’ health outcomes through outdoor-based interventions like adventure therapy: A scoping review

Abstract

Outdoor-based interventions, like adventure therapy, have numerous positive benefits, yet current literature is inconclusive on this topic regarding older adult participants. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore health outcomes for older adults engaging in outdoor-based interventions, including adventure therapy. A scoping review was conducted using 20 databases and specific journals, and a staged blinded review. The resulting data was synthesized into three groups that align with the components of successful aging: Prevention of disease/disability, retaining good physical/cognitive functioning, and active engagement. From these findings, implications for allied health professionals and experiential educators are discussed, and future research directions are recommended.