ABSTRACT
Lifespan development theory centers on human development, exploring the patterns of growth and change that occur as people mature over the course of their lives. Contemporary thinking is influenced by historical, generational and international perspectives and these will be explored in relation to the potential contribution of play as a feature of healthcare provision. Chronological age is almost universally used as a defining characteristic that anchors accounts of change over the lifespan. All developmentalists identify development as a continuing process that occurs over the entire course of the lifespan. Ayurveda recognizes that the playful disposition is present throughout the lifespan, although its expression will be influenced by individual and developmental factors. The perception and practice of play throughout the lifespan both reflect and are reflected in its cultural context. In the cross-cultural context, a lifespan approach offers a framework within which to explore culture-specific approaches to play as it relates to concepts of positive health and wellbeing.
