This study sought to identify leisure interests and participation patterns of residents over 65 in selected nursing homes in Los Angeles County, California, together with general and professional beliefs of nursing home administrators and authorities on aging as to leisure activities for aged nursing home patients. Interviews were held with 107 patients selected from 17 nursing homes, the nursing home administrators, and six experts. These were among the findings; (1) few of the patients participated in or were interested in participating in leisure activities, and passive activities were favored; (2) patients participated for reasons of social contact, and enjoyment, or did not participate because they were uninterested or physically unable; (3) contrary to administrators' opinions, the majority of patients were physically and mentally able to participate in leisure activities; (4) it is important to offer aged patients a wide selection of programs; (5) active leisure activities are the ones most valuable to patients' well being. Recommendations were made for expanded leisure programs and for research on various factors in participation. (author/ly)