Brief Description

The Pleasant Events Schedule for Older Adults is a self-report tool that includes 66 activities and events considered pleasurable by older individuals. Participants evaluate both the frequency with which they engage in these activities and the degree of enjoyment they derive from them. The questionnaire is based on the original Pleasant Events Schedule by MacPhillamy and Lewinsohn (1982) and has been adapted to Greek by G. Klefataras, taking into account cultural and social specificities.

Purpose

The purpose of the tool is to record and assess the sources of positive energy and enjoyment in older adults, so that it can be used for research and clinical purposes, as well as for designing programs that promote their psychological well-being.

Scoring Method

Participants respond twice for each activity:
(a) They indicate their frequency of participation over the last month on a scale from 0 (never) to 7 (more than 7 times).
(b) They rate the degree of enjoyment derived from the activity on a three-point scale (1 = minimal enjoyment, 2 = moderate enjoyment, 3 = great enjoyment).
Separate and total indices of positive energy can be calculated, as well as combined indices reflecting both frequency and enjoyment intensity.

Validity

The questionnaire demonstrates good validity, as evidenced by comparisons between its scores and life situation assessments, as well as factor analyses showing consistent grouping of activities into thematic categories. The Greek adaptation has shown compatibility with findings from international versions.

Reliability

The tool exhibits high test–retest reliability over intervals of one, two, and three months, demonstrating stability in participants’ responses and high internal consistency.

Data Analysis and Use

Analysis involves calculating overall and subscale indices of frequency and enjoyment, and comparing them with criteria such as psychological status, social activity, and quality of life. The data can be used to design psychosocial interventions, monitor program effectiveness, and enhance the well-being of older adults.

References

Erechtelis, S., & Karampatzaki, K. (1999). Depressive symptomatology and pleasant activities in older adults. Undergraduate thesis (supervisor: G. Klefataras), TEI of Athens.
Gallagher, D., & Thompson, L. W. (1981). Depression in the elderly: A behavioral treatment manual. University of Southern California: Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center.
Klefataras, G. (1988). La dépression chez les personnes âgées: les événements et les activités agréables et désagréables ainsi que l’aptitude cognitive à résoudre des problèmes.