An exploratory investigation into the reasons why older people play golf

Purpose: Participation in organised sport is declining. For older Australians, golf is the most popular organised sport, but why golf is popular in this age group is unclear. This study explored why older adults play golf, and the perceived benefits they obtain from doing so. Method: A qualitative descriptive approach directed the study, involving five focus groups with male and female regular golfers (N = 31, aged 55-74 years) from private/semi-private metropolitan and country/regional golf clubs. Reasons for, and perceived benefits of, golf participation were explored. Results: Reasons viewed as unique to golf included a relatively low physical demand allowing play into older age, providing an opportunity to compete (due to the handicap system providing a level playing field) and providing opportunity to exercise without it feeling like exercise. Reasons for participation common to other sports/activities were opportunities for social and community engagement, time for self and time spent with others, and benefits for physical, cognitive, and mental health. Conclusion: These findings provide new insights into the reasons why older adults play golf that might start to explain the relative popularity of golf as a sport for older people. The results may inform recruitment and marketing strategies for the golf industry, whilst contributing to the knowledge base of factors that influence participation in sport for older adults. The study also provides understandings that could be used to guide further research using both qualitative and quantitative methods of inquiry.